Editor’s Note: We invited Red Cross Club graduating high school and college seniors to share their experiences with us. The information is compiled and presented by Cindy Grell, Ellen Ginda and Alana Mauger.

Over the past two years, the Red Cross Club at Interboro High School made a significant impact in the Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) community thanks in large part to the leadership of recent graduates Isabelle Newell and Samantha Stavola. In addition to hosting three blood drives and several fundraisers, the club spearheaded a record-breaking toy drive, which collected more than 200 toys for children whose families are recovering from local disasters, like home fires, at the Red Cross House.

Isabelle Newell

Class of 2026 graduate Isabelle Newell says she learned a lot throughout her journey as Red Cross Club president.

“I have seen how much of a difference one can make in such simple situations,” she shared. “It has been amazing to be able to help people and help the surrounding community.”

She’s especially proud of planning and organizing the Red Cross House toy drive and running multiple blood drives, the last of which she says was the most successful and smoothest.

This fall, Isabelle will attend New York University as a neural science major on a premedical track. She’s excited to see where her new adventures lead as she enjoys life in the big city. And she’s looking forward to joining new clubs, including the Red Cross.

“I will carry the Red Cross mission next year by continuing to help my community that I am present in,” she said. “I am excited to join this club in a different region and see how I can help new people.”

Samantha Stavola

Interboro Red Cross Club vice president Samantha Stavola says she has learned important lessons over the past two years in her leadership role. She joined Isabelle in leading the club’s successful toy drive and blood drive efforts.

“Being a part of these things has shown me so many positive results and has made me more appreciative of the things I can do to help,” she shared.

In the fall, Samantha will attend Saint Joseph’s University to major in nursing. Her career goal is to work at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) helping children in need. She, too, plans to continue her service with the Red Cross.

“I will join as many clubs and participate in as many things as I can in order to give back,” she said.

SEPA Red Cross Clubs

During the 2025-26 academic year, the SEPA region supported 33 Red Cross Clubs – 28 in high schools and five in colleges and universities. More than 950 students participated across Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

Senior Volunteer Engagement Specialist Ellen Ginda, who works closely with the students, explains that while each Red Cross Club is different, they all “have the goal of bringing the Red Cross’s humanitarian mission to their schools.” The student leaders choose how to reach that goal, which often includes hosting blood drives, organizing fundraisers and collecting in-kind donations, like toys, books, food and more!

Over the past academic year, SEPA’s Red Cross Clubs hosted more than 20 blood drives, organized 11 fundraisers and coordinated 11 donation collections. In addition, nearly 150 students were trained and certified in CPR/AED/First Aid.