How to Get Involved

Whether it's responding to a disaster large or small, teaching Canadians to swim, promoting healthy relationships and non-violence, advocating on humanitarian issues or supporting communities in need around the world – we're making a difference.

We couldn't do the great work we do without passionate and committed Canadian youth who support us each and every day.

Disaster Management

Flooding, forest fires, hurricanes and earthquakes wreak havoc on communities in Canada and around the world. The Red Cross works with communities to help prepare them to face disasters, provide urgently needed support when disaster strikes, and support families who have been separated and are seeking to reunite. To find out more information on how to prepare for a disaster and to learn about the different activities within the Canadian Red Cross Disaster Management program visit our Disaster Management page.

First Aid

The Canadian Red Cross First Aid programs offer more than just the opportunity to learn how to prevent injuries and to think, react and improvise in emergency situations. It offers youth the opportunity to learn valuable skills and opens the door to employment options.

To learn about the different courses available and how to become certified, visit our First Aid and CPR page.

Swimming and Water Safety

Is there more to the Red Cross Water Safety programs than swimming lessons? Absolutely! The Red Cross Swimming and Water Safety programs offer a variety of programs for youth. Whether you are interested in becoming a water safety instructor, looking to learn a water sport with friends or wanting to improve your swimming skills, Red Cross has a program for you!

Visit our First Aid, Swimming and Water Safety Page to find out more about Red Cross swim.

Violence and Abuse Prevention

In communities around the world, the Canadian Red Cross promotes safe relationships and cultures of non-violence. Abuse, violence, bullying: the hurt is real - and can be stopped. You can play a vital role in preventing violence and abuse in your school, at home, on your sports teams and among your peers.

The Canadian Red Cross Beyond the Hurt program is a bullying prevention program with a difference — peer facilitation is what sets this school and community program apart. Older peers, typically grades 10-12, are trained to deliver presentations to youth, with the support of an adult in their school who is also trained.

Visit the Violence and Abuse Prevention page to find out more and how you can become involved.

International Humanitarian Law

International humanitarian law (IHL) is a set of rules which seek, to limit the effects of armed conflict. It protects persons who are not or are no longer participating in the hostilities and restricts the means and methods of warfare as well as allows humanitarians to carry out their work. The more people know about international humanitarian law, and the more they understand its impact on human life and dignity, the more likely combatants are to respect it.

The Canadian Red Cross helps disseminate the principles of international humanitarian law to, youth and the general public by organizing conferences with colleges and university. For information on attending a conference in your area or accessing educational resources visit the IHL section of our website.