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Big-hearted giver cited by American Red Cross

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It’s quite typical to see nonprofit service organizations recognize donors who have contributed thousands of dollars to help underwrite programs.
The American Red Cross certainly does that. But the Los Angeles chapter of the 231-year-old help organization takes it a step further.
“We recognize people who give multiple gifts over many years; 11 years or more,” explained Dana Williamson, a gift planning officer for the L.A. Red Cross. “That says you really care and are not just responding to a disaster.”
The amounts do not have to big, but they should be consistent, said Williamson, who recently honored local resident Norris Byrd with a replica of the pin worn during World War II for her years of giving to the agency.
Byrd raises money to donate to the Red Cross by holding yard sales and giving out of her own retirement/Social Security check.
But the 69-year-old Los Angeles resident does not stop with the Red Cross. The community activist gives money orders to individual youth as well as to organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center, Kids Wish Network and the Union Rescue Mission.
Most recently, after a visit to Africa, Byrd began sending donations to Senegal and Nairobi, including one group that helps children whose parents have died as a result of HIV/AIDS. The organization provides food, clothing and educational assistance.

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