By Nancy Degnan

Clara Barton is quoted as saying, “the door that nobody else will go in, seems always to swing open widely for me.” Charline Scott sees and enters open doors everywhere, and today we acknowledge her courage and determination.

Charline Scott is a minister in her church and has been serving her community for almost 34 years. Like any true leader, Charline wanted to expand her ministry beyond the church and was led to the American Red Cross by a fellow pastor. In April 2014, Charline embarked on yet another journey to give back, and we would like to acknowledge Charline’s humanitarian efforts.

During a volunteer effort at a shelter, Cathy Jensen, a Disaster Spiritual Care lead, witnessed Charline’s tender interaction with a client and her ability to make a difference. Cathy saw something unique in Charline and encouraged her to join the team.

As part of the team, Charline teaches preparedness, installs smoke detectors and supports community events that deliver information on fire prevention. She also greatly enjoys supporting the volunteers and staff members who are making great efforts to aid families in need.

As a result of Charline’s commitment and contributions, she was recently promoted to Disaster Spiritual Care regional lead for Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA). Her desire is to make the American Red Cross Mission more profound in the community. Charline feels that she is blessed and wants to pass blessings forward.

American Red Cross impact

When asked what motivates Charline to continue her efforts with the Red Cross, she recounted that the organization is very special because they don’t miss a beat when it comes to assisting clients.

Charline stated, “I keep coming back because I really want all things to be well concerning our clients. If I can be a listening ear and give comfort at a time in someone’s life where peace, joy or hope is lost, it brings me peace to know I may help.”

Charline’s impact

Charline describes the most rewarding aspect of her volunteer work is taking a client from the doorstep of sadness to the doorway of hope. Charline has counseled clients with devastating losses, from personal items to the loss of a loved one. With each experience, the one continuous theme with Charline is to lead and help others.

We honor Charline and her role as an active Disaster Spiritual Care lead for the Red Cross. Beyond her goodwill efforts shared with the world, Charline has had a successful career and raised a family. She is a loving mother of two grown children, a grandmother of six with two great grandchildren and is a caregiver to her mother.

Like Clara Barton, Charline Scott ventures forward and creates a path for others. We thank Charline for her service and humanitarian efforts!

Editor’s Note: In commemoration of Women’s History Month, we are publishing a #LeadLikeClara series of profiles featuring women volunteer leaders who emulate the leadership characteristics of Red Cross founder Clara Barton.