The Red Cross is not a government agency. The services provided by the Alexandria Red Cross are entirely dependent upon the generosity of the Alexandria community. The only case in which this would not be true is if the Alexandria community suffered a disaster that overwhelmed our Chapter's resources, such as a hurricane, tornado, earthquake, or large explosion. In such an event, the Alexandria Chapter would have to call upon the resources of neighboring chapters or its parent organization, the American Red Cross. The Development department of the Alexandria Red Cross raises funds for the services of the Alexandria Red Cross.
Development consists of five ingredients.
First, telling the Chapter's story through news releases , Chapter publications, like our Annual Report , and community outreach. Second, the Chapter endeavors to develop relationships with prospective and established financial supporters. Third, the Chapter, like many charities, engages in direct mail solicitations. Fourth, the Chapter holds a variety of special events, most notably the Alexandria Red Cross Waterfront Festival . Finally, the Chapter tries to educate its supporters about the potential benefits of planned gifts , which can provide the Chapter with an endowment while also providing significant tax advantages to persons with inclinations toward charitable giving.