Residents were encouraged to give back to their community during a speech made by Bermuda Red Cross executive director Ann Spencer-Arscott.

She was speaking at the Rotary Club on World Red Cross Day — during the month of May, which is World Red Cross month.

Ms Spencer-Arscott said: “The Red Cross movement around the world is about ‘people helping people’. This year, we would like to encourage all residents of Bermuda to give some thought on how they can give back to their communities — to volunteering some of their time to a charity, school, church or association and to donate or do something to help someone else in their community.”

World Red Cross Day is the day the international movement celebrates the birth of Henry Dunant who founded the organisation in Geneva, Switzerland in 1863. Dunant was also the first recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901.

Ms Spencer-Arscott reminded the community of some of the charity’s services including: training and education in first aid; transport services for the elderly and indignant; medical rental equipment services; disaster relief for local and international communities; the Golden Hour Club to enhance the lives of seniors; and the thrift shop, which helps to raise money.

She also highlighted that there are raffle tickets for sale for $5 with a draw on July 7.

The Bermuda Red Cross headquarters is at Charleswood, 9 Berry Hill Road.

Anyone wishing to donate to the Bermuda Red Cross can do so by calling 236-8253 or online via www.bermudaredcross.com.