When asking yourself about something to do near me in Miami with a group of friends or family, consider
American Red Cross
Why American Red Cross is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The American Red Cross is a distinguished nonprofit humanitarian organization founded in 1881 by Clara Barton that dedicates itself to providing emergency assistance, disaster relief, and life-saving services throughout the United States and globally. It serves as an essential meeting place for communities rallying together in times of crisis and recovery, supported largely by volunteers and generous donors. The organization is especially renowned for collecting approximately 40% of the nation's blood supply, a critical resource in hospitals for patients facing surgeries, traumas, or chronic illnesses. Beyond disaster response, the American Red Cross offers public safety education programs, including first aid, CPR, and preparedness training that empower individuals and groups to act confidently during emergencies. Additionally, it supports military families by facilitating communication and assistance during deployments or crises. The Red Cross's rich history of responding to both domestic disasters—such as floods and hurricanes—and international crises highlights its vital role in community resilience and humanitarian relief. Meeting with friends or colleagues through volunteering or training sessions at the American Red Cross can offer a meaningful shared experience centered around helping others, skill-building, and contributing to life-saving missions.
Here's what people think of American Red Cross
As of recent, American Red Cross holds a 4.7-star rating based on 60 reviews.
User reviews of the American Red Cross generally reflect high appreciation for the meaningful nature of its mission, with many reviewers highlighting a strong sense of purpose and personal satisfaction derived from contributing to humanitarian efforts. Positive reviews frequently mention the opportunities to learn new skills, such as phlebotomy and emergency response, and the supportive, mission-driven culture that helps sustain employee and volunteer motivation. However, some negative feedback points to challenges in workplace management and scheduling, especially for roles like mobile phlebotomists, where balancing work and personal life can be difficult. Concerns about job security and advancement opportunities were also noted by some employees. Despite these managerial and logistical drawbacks, most reviews recognize the invaluable impact of the organization’s work. Overall, the American Red Cross maintains a commendable reputation for its humanitarian contributions, while continuously striving to improve internal operations and volunteer experiences to better fulfill its critical mission.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Arturo Arambulo
I recently completed the Red Cross First Aid/CPR/AED training certification class, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. The instructors were knowledgeable and patient, making sure everyone understood the material thoroughly. The hands-on practice sessions were invaluable and boosted my confidence in handling emergency situations. The class was well-organized and informative, providing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. I highly recommend this certification course to anyone looking to learn essential life-saving techniques.
Shardiaye N. Haney
They came to our job and not only was it educational and you get to practice hands on some decoys. The instructor went the extra mile to keep humor in class so that we cam stay engaged. God bless him and everyone who has the delightful privilege to meet him. 2080 Hallandale class, Tues July 16th. 💞📚🍎🪱☦️
Netmoe
Local testing for CPR/AED certification. Plenty of parking
Val Beck
ATTENTION! Never, ever have business with American Red Cross! And here is why: My name is Val, I purchased a Lifeguarding class from the American Red Cross. On the week that my class was appointed, my teacher called me and said that she will reschedule it to the next week because she is a traveling teacher and it’s not comfortable for her to come to Florida at this time. A week passed by and I received an email, saying that my class will be rescheduled for next month, Dec. 22nd-24th. I was disappointed and I called her to find out why it’s getting rescheduled. Out of the conversation, the first thought that I’ve had was “Is she drunk???”. She was Very rude and disruptive, she wouldn’t let me finish a sentence, would always talk over me even though I asked her to stop talking when I’m talking, and she seemed to be under influence of drugs or alcohol, I decided to stay enrolled in the class because of job opportunities I’ve had at that time. It was my first day of class and when I came, she was lecturing me on how rude I was to her by calling. The next day there was a birthday party with loud music at the pool and I’ve had hard time focusing on listening, since English is not my first language. She also told us that day that we would have to come back next month to get our certification in the deeper pool because “I did not check the depth of this pool and it is not deep enough to get your certification, but it’s my bad” -Teacher. The next day, the pool was closed because it was Christmas and as she said: “I did not think they would close the pool today” -Teacher, so we had to go to Starbucks and take our tests there. It was loud inside and I asked her if I can go outside but she said: “I cannot bend the rules just for you to feel comfortable, you gotta stay inside or the whole team will be hot” -Teacher, I didn’t want others to be affected, so I stayed. Everything was supposed to be finished at 12pm, according to the teacher and my mom came to pick me up at 12:15, I told her that we are not done yet and the teacher is inside her car, my mom went to talk to her, and it comes out that the teacher had to drop her son off at the airport. It was the boiling point for me and my family and we asked for a refund, to which the teacher responded aggressively, telling us to back off and few minutes after called the police. When they came, two policemen separated us and listened to both of us, after all, they said that it’s just a way that people do business and they cannot help us in this situation. After that accident I called the Red Cross and had a HORRIBLE customer experience there, I waited at least 45 minutes to get an assistant that transferred me to another assistant, even though I asked for a Supervisor. At the end of the call, the assistant hang up the phone and I was left with tears on my face symbolizing anger and obsession of making the change that needs to be done about this company and that is why you are reading this post right now, and I encourage you to never use Red Cross services for your own sake.
Matthew Maldonato
What a joke…signed up for First Aid & CPR but my grandmother has a doctors appointment & I have my small son & they can only refund half of my money
How to reach American Red Cross
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Website: None
Why American Red Cross may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at the American Red Cross with your friends? The American Red Cross is not only a humanitarian organization with a storied history but also an inspiring venue for gathering with friends and family to engage in meaningful activities that foster community spirit and lifesaving skills. With an impressive rating of 4.7 from 60 reviews, it stands as a trusted and respected institution renowned for its commitment to disaster relief, emergency preparedness, and health and safety education. Bringing your group here is more than just a meetup; it is an opportunity to connect with a cause greater than oneself while learning vital skills such as CPR, first aid, and disaster response. This environment nurtures teamwork, compassion, and civic responsibility, providing both a fulfilling and educational experience. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with hands-on workshops and interactive events, ensures that gatherings here are both socially enriching and empowering, making it an ideal place for friends to bond over acts of service and shared purpose.
What kind of activities can you participate in at the American Red Cross? The American Red Cross offers a wide range of activities tailored for groups, making it perfect for meetups with friends or family who want to engage in meaningful conversations and skill-building. One central activity is the comprehensive training courses in CPR, first aid, and water safety, which are available to people of all ages and skill levels. These classes not only equip participants with lifesaving techniques but also forge a sense of confidence and readiness to assist in emergencies. Additionally, the Red Cross regularly hosts blood drives, which provide a powerful way for groups to contribute directly to saving lives. For those interested in disaster preparedness, workshops and seminars teach participants how to create emergency kits, develop family communication plans, and respond effectively to natural disasters. Aside from these educational components, there are volunteer opportunities that allow groups to get involved hands-on, from disaster relief efforts to community outreach programs, promoting teamwork and community spirit.
Why is the American Red Cross ideal for group meetups? Its unique combination of educational programs, volunteer opportunities, and social responsibility initiatives makes it the perfect setting for a group meetup. Unlike other venues that focus solely on entertainment or relaxation, the American Red Cross encourages interaction through purposeful engagement. Groups can bond over mutual learning experiences, work together on community projects, or even collaborate during blood drives or fundraising events. The inclusive and supportive environment welcomes people of diverse backgrounds, which enhances the social richness of any gathering. Moreover, the facility often provides spaces equipped for group meetings, enabling a comfortable and organized setting for discussion and activity planning. Choosing the Red Cross as your meetup spot reinforces a collective sense of achievement and altruism, leaving all participants with a meaningful memory and skills that extend beyond the event.
How does the American Red Cross support personal growth and community impact during a meetup? When you gather at the American Red Cross with your friends or family, you are participating in an environment ripe for both personal development and community contribution. The organization’s educational programs are designed not only to teach skills but to empower individuals to become proactive in their communities. Group members learn how to manage stress in emergencies, apply first aid knowledge in real-world scenarios, and communicate effectively during crises. These insights and capabilities often translate into heightened confidence and leadership abilities in daily life. Simultaneously, involvement in group volunteer activities emphasizes the value of teamwork and social responsibility. The shared experience enhances interpersonal bonds while collectively making a tangible difference through blood donations, disaster relief efforts, and public health campaigns. This synergy of personal and communal growth is a hallmark of what makes a meetup at the American Red Cross both impactful and inspiring.
What facilities and amenities support group meetups at the American Red Cross? The organization provides a well-equipped and accessible venue that caters to group activities. Meeting rooms, classrooms, and event spaces are often available to accommodate various group sizes, offering a comfortable environment for learning and collaboration. These spaces are typically fitted with multimedia equipment to support presentations and training sessions, enhancing the educational experience. Additionally, staff members at the American Red Cross are experienced in organizing and facilitating group programs, ensuring that your meetup runs smoothly and purposefully. The facilities comply with accessibility standards, ensuring that participants with different needs can fully engage in activities. The welcoming physical environment, combined with expert support, optimizes the group meetup experience by balancing comfort with functionality.
Why is hosting a meetup at the American Red Cross meaningful beyond socializing? Unlike conventional social venues, the American Red Cross invites groups to harness their gathering as a platform for service and education. The meaning derived from participating in a recognized humanitarian organization's mission creates a unique bond among attendees. You are not only enjoying time together but also contributing to a legacy of relief and resilience that began with Clara Barton in 1881. The historical significance and ongoing impact of the Red Cross add depth and significance to any social event held here. Hosting your meetup at the Red Cross instills a sense of purpose, enriches your understanding of humanitarian work, and encourages continued engagement in community welfare. This alignment of social interaction with altruistic endeavor sets it apart as an exceptional venue for friends and family who seek to make their time together truly worthwhile.
How can your group get involved in ongoing programs and events? The American Red Cross offers numerous programs and scheduled events designed for community participation. Groups eager to contribute can easily sign up for upcoming blood drives, volunteer recruitment fairs, or disaster preparedness workshops. The organization frequently updates its calendar with opportunities for involvement during local and national crises, enabling groups to respond together in times of need. Additionally, the Red Cross hosts seasonal and special events that highlight health awareness, fundraising, and community education, which are ideal for groups wanting a more dynamic experience. Participating regularly with the Red Cross helps groups build lasting relationships within the organization and promotes a sustained commitment to public service. This continuity can transform occasional meetups into a meaningful tradition with ongoing impact.
What benefits do participants gain from engaging with the American Red Cross as a group? Besides the social joy of gathering with friends or family, participants obtain valuable knowledge and skills that can save lives. Training programs enhance individual preparedness for emergencies, while volunteering fosters empathy, leadership, and organizational skills. Engaging with the Red Cross network broadens one's exposure to diverse communities and perspectives, enriching social understanding and awareness. Groups also experience the satisfaction of contributing to humanitarian efforts, which can improve mental well-being via the positive effects of altruism. Furthermore, regular involvement strengthens community ties and may open doors to other professional and personal growth opportunities within the nonprofit sector. All these factors combine to make meetups at the American Red Cross deeply beneficial beyond the immediate social experience.
How has the legacy of the American Red Cross shaped the experience your group will have today? Founded by Clara Barton in 1881 after her experiences on the Civil War battlefields and inspired by the international Red Cross movement, the American Red Cross has cultivated a rich heritage of compassion, innovation, and dedication to public welfare. This legacy informs every activity and interaction that groups experience at the organization today. Whether responding to natural disasters or educating the public on health and safety, the spirit of service is palpable. Knowing that you are part of a continuum that has helped millions throughout history provides added inspiration and motivation. The organization’s enduring commitment to reaching vulnerable populations and fostering resilience creates a powerful backdrop for your group's activities, making your meetup not just a social event but a meaningful contribution to a century-old mission.
What makes the American Red Cross a trusted and highly rated organization for hosting your meetup? The strong trust placed in the American Red Cross is reflected in its impressive 4.7 rating from 60 reviews. This rating highlights the consistently positive experiences of visitors and volunteers, who value the organization’s professionalism, compassionate mission, and community impact. The credibility of the Red Cross as a nonprofit humanitarian organization ensures that your meeting space and activities are reputable and well-managed. Coupled with its ongoing innovation in health and emergency response training, the organization offers a sound environment where groups can safely and effectively connect. The positive feedback underscores not only the quality of programs and facilities but also the motivational atmosphere that the Red Cross cultivates, making it an ideal location for social and service-oriented gatherings.
How can your group prepare for a successful meetup at the American Red Cross? To maximize your group's experience, it is advisable to contact the local Red Cross chapter ahead of time to discuss your goals and interests. Planning could include selecting specific courses or workshops, scheduling volunteer activities, or arranging for space rental if needed. Preparing questions, materials, or coordinating transportation logistics in advance ensures a seamless visit. It helps to review the organization’s calendar to participate in public events or special initiatives aligning with your group’s schedule. Additionally, consider promoting the meetup in advance to encourage full participation and foster excitement. Pre-visit preparation will empower your group to make the most of your time at the American Red Cross and enhance the overall experience.
Choosing the American Red Cross for your group gathering is a decision that transcends a simple social meetup. It is a commitment to learning, service, and community building. As you engage in their valuable programs, support lifesaving missions, and connect with like-minded individuals, your group solidifies relationships while making a positive impact on society. This respected organization offers a unique blend of historic legacy, educational opportunities, and meaningful volunteerism, ensuring that your meetup is unforgettable, rewarding, and truly extraordinary.