This father-daughter duo helps fight disasters across Birmingham—how to get involved

A Special Bond Brought Together by Service to the Community

In Birmingham, when a home fire, inclement weather, or any other disaster strikes, the first people to lend a hand are the dedicated volunteers from the American Red Cross. One such pair of volunteers is a father-daughter duo whose dedication, service, and stories are sure to inspire many people. Anne Rygiel and her father, retired General Jim Darden, are an integral part of Red Cross’ Disaster Action Team.

Meet Anne Rygiel, the Torchbearer of Change

During the day, Anne fulfills her responsibilities as the Executive Director of the American Red Cross’ Mid-Alabama Chapter. However, when local catastrophes call, she volunteers with the Red Cross’ Disaster Action Team. Anne’s passion for service and community drove her to the American Red Cross. “I was drawn to the [Executive Director] role because service to the community is my passion and it has been a long-standing dream of mine to work for an organization that has such a storied history of helping people when they need it most,” says Anne.

Juggling Multiple Hats

In her capacity as the Executive Director, Anne works with the Red Cross’ various divisions, including Disaster, Biomed, Service to Armed Forces, Training, and Volunteer services. To cater to Birmingham’s needs, she constantly collaborates with Red Cross staff and volunteers. After fulfilling her day-to-day professional duties, Anne extends her service as a volunteer within the Disaster Action Team. Anne had always harboured a desire to dedicate herself to others’ service, a trait she developed from a young age witnessing Birmingham’s disparities.

Jim Darden, Soldier and Samaritan

Meet Anne’s father, retired Army General Jim Darden, another pillar of the Birmingham Red Cross’ Disaster Action Team. His journey to the team started when he was asked to assist the American Red Cross’s Services with Armed Forces Team. Inspired by the volunteers’ passion, he decided to participate directly in disaster response by joining the Disaster Action Team along with Anne.

More Than Just a Volunteer

As a volunteer, Jim, along with Anne, responds to calls to provide support to families affected by fires or storms. They provide emotional support, financial assistance, and vital information to help families kick-start their recovery process. “Volunteering with the Disaster Team suits my schedule and gives me a chance to interact with my community members. Everyone should give back, and Red Cross provides numerous ways to do that,” Jim says. Volunteering alongside his daughter is a source of great pride for Jim. As for Anne’s thoughts on their collaborative effort, she says, “My dad volunteering means the world to me. Watching him mingle and bond with people is one of my greatest joys.”

How to Become a Local Hero with American Red Cross

“No matter what your passion is or your schedule looks like, there’s a place for you. The Red Cross values its volunteers more than any other organization I have been involved with. It’s an organization of volunteers and wouldn’t exist without the community,” says Anne. Ready to lend a hand in rebuilding lives? Apply to become an American Red Cross volunteer today!