The Vanuatu Red Cross Society is marking the 35th Anniversary of the Society today October 18 with the launching of its Strategy 2017-2020 as part of its celebration.
The anniversary includes also a partnership meeting on October 19 and an awards dinner night by the President of the Republic of Vanuatu.
“The Strategic Plan is the culmination of six months’ work and consultation with staff, members and volunteers, as well as stakeholders and communities,” a statement from the Vanuatu Red Cross Society reads.
“The plan has 4 goals: save lives and strengthen resilience to disasters and crises; enable healthy and save living; promote social inclusion and a culture of non-violence and peace; build a stronger, safe sustainable, accountable and diverse national society.
Xavier Watt uploading Non Food Item's Reliefs with Sanma Red Cross Volunteers
“These goals will help the Red Cross to achieve its mission: “To prevent and alleviate suffering by working with communities and partners providing quality humanitarian services to vulnerable people, in accordance with Fundamental Principles of the Movement”.
The Vanuatu Red Cross Chief Executive Officer, Jacqueline de Gaillande, says the main change in direction will be the decentralization of Red Cross work from headquarters to the branches.
“We will be driven by volunteers and members in our branches.
“A strong branch network is critical for our sustainability and for our responsibilities to the Vanuatu government,” says Madam Jacqueline de Gaillande.
Vanuatu Red Cross currently has 5 branches in the province of Torba, Sanma, Penama, Malampa and Tafea.
The plan also mentions investing more time and resources in Red Cross volunteers, forming new domestic partnerships and helping communities to become more resilient to disasters and emergencies.
The launch will be attended by government representatives, members of the diplomatic corps, friends and partners of the Red Cross, Vanuatu Red Cross board, management, members, volunteers and staff.