The Red Cross announced the kickoff of the "Change Makes a Difference" campaign Wednesday at the City-County Building.  Pictured above (left to right) are Mayor Tom Henry, Kay Ostrum, Executive Director, American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana, Commissioner Bill Brown and Commissioner Nelson Peters.

City of Fort Wayne and Allen County announced today the Change Makes a Difference Campaign to raise funds for the American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana.  Mayor Tom Henry and the Allen County Board of Commissioners also declared March is Red Cross Month and presented proclamations to the Red Cross.
The Change Makes a Difference Campaign is a fundraiser for the Red Cross during March to encourage donations of all sizes – donations of change – to support the many services provided by the American Red Cross to the community throughout the year.  These services include disaster relief, health and safety training, service to the Armed Forces, translation services and blood services.

"The Red Cross of Northeast Indiana is an important community partner in the delivery of disaster relief services. Although the economy is tight these days, the need for Red Cross services remains,” said Mayor Tom Henry.  “This joint city-county campaign will show the power of small actions of individuals adding up to something for our community. Your change really can make a difference in the lives of your neighbors,” Henry continued.

City and county employees will begin a friendly competition today to see who can contribute the most to the Red Cross now through March 31.  Donation canisters will be available throughout the City-County Building.

The public is invited to participate in the Change Makes a Difference Campaign by giving their change and donations of any amount at one of the following locations: City-County Building, Public Safety Academy, Fire Department Administration Office, any Allen County fire department (please call before dropping off your donation to a county fire department to ensure someone is there to receive it), Police Headquarters on Creighton Ave., Animal Care & Control, Parks and Recreation Office, Botanical Conservatory or the American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana, 1212 E. California Road, Fort Wayne.

“We help each other when we help the Red Cross,” said Bill Brown, president of the Board of Commissioners.  “We urge all residents in Allen County to continue helping the Red Cross by giving their time, money and blood to make a difference in our community.”