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Governance

The American Red Cross is led by a Board of Governors with all of the powers of governing and directing, and of overseeing the management and affairs of the organization. The corporate governance principles of the American Red Cross are composed of a series of documents adopted by the Board of Governors and reviewed periodically to ensure they continue to meet the needs of the organization and reflect current industry best practices.

Governing Documents
In 2007, the American Red Cross embarked on comprehensive governance reform including the most significant amendments to the Congressional Charter in 60 years. Changes were signed into law by the President of the United States to modernize the Board to focus on strategic oversight and governance.

  Structure and Membership of the Board of Governors
In addition to a more clear oversight and strategic role for the Board, highlights of governance reforms include: by 2012, Board membership will range from 12 to 20, requirements for membership are now uniform and follow best practices for corporate boards, and the selection of members is accomplished through the Governance and Board Development Committee's recommendation to the full Board with final approval by delegates of the chapters and blood services regions at the annual meeting of the American Red Cross.

 

Leadership
The Chairman of the Board and the President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) are significant leaders of the American Red Cross. The Chairman leads the Board of Governors in the governance and oversight of the organization. The President and CEO executes Red Cross strategies and leads the operations and business activities of the Red Cross.

Bonnie McElveen-Hunter was appointed as Chairman of the American Red Cross on June 17, 2004. Ms. McElveen-Hunter is the former U.S. Ambassador to Finland (2001 -- 2003) and the CEO and owner of Pace Communications, Inc., the largest private custom publishing company in the United States. .

 Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Chairman of the American Red Cross


Gail J. McGovern was named President and CEO of the American Red Cross on April 8, 2008. Gail, who held top management positions at AT&T Corporation and Fidelity Investments, has experience running large organizations in competitive industries, and a track record for improving business performance and service delivery to the public.

 Gail J. McGovern, President and CEO of the American Red Cross

 

Governance Procedures
Governance procedures provide clear guidance about expectations and enhance Board and individual Board member performance.

 

Ethics, Conduct and Compliance Resources
The Board of Governors of the American Red Cross is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethics and conduct and promoting a culture of compliance and ethics throughout the organization.

 

Financials and Reporting
As a 501(c)(3) public charity, the American Red Cross relies upon the support of generous Americans to fulfill its mission. Read about Red Cross fiscal responsibility here:

 


Find Your Local Chapter

Get local content and learn how we help in your community.

The American Red Cross is made up of 712 chapters and 36 blood services regions which fulfill the mission of the American Red Cross in your community.

Through your local Red Cross you can learn more about services and opportunities in your community such as:

  • Donating blood
  • Taking classes
  • Volunteering
  • Hosting a blood drive
  • And much more...