GVSU student wins American Red Cross award

Grand Valley State University student Sean Haak of North Muskegon was honored by the American Red Cross Serving Muskegon, Oceana, and Newaygo Counties its annual Volunteer and Blood Donor Recognition on May 6 in Muskegon. Several area residents were honored for their services to the American Red Cross and the community.

Haak was given the Youth/Young Adult Services Award for his work with a volunteer group of young adults called the ARC Players who have raised funds for the Red Cross in Muskegon for the past three years. Haak has been an important member of the group, helping to organize the events, work on lighting and sound equipment behind the scenes, and acting in the annual productions.

Haak was nominated by the president of the volunteer group, Rebecca Meldrum-Roy, who noted that he is a person with positive energy and a can-do attitude.

"Nothing's too small or inconsequential for Sean — he's willing to do whatever he can, including making himself look foolish in his roles for the amusement of many," Meldrum-Roy said. "Last year, he did precisely that in his role as Sheriff Berp in a play called 'Skirmish at the Sunrise Saloon,'"

Haak also volunteers for other fundraisers and special events for the local Red Cross whenever he can.

The mission of the American Red Cross is to provide relief to victims of disaster and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to life's emergencies.

“Each year thousands of volunteers and blood donors serve our communities through the American Red Cross. We are proud of the Red Cross' unparalleled record of helping people and meeting local needs," said Mary Boyd, chairman of the Board of Directors. “ All of the services are possible because of volunteers, blood donors, and contributions from the community."

The organization is dependent upon volunteer to deliver its services. For more information about volunteering with the American Red Cross, please call (231) 726-3555 or visit www.arcmon.org.