Red Cross volunteer instructor Roger Gomes teaches a CPR
and First-Aid class in Miami.

Roger first came to know the Red Cross in Portugal, where he volunteered in the emergency services side and loved how the organization gave aid to people in need. It was there where instructor Eduarda Ferreira encouraged Roger to develop his natural ability to teach and connect with others by becoming an instructor.

Upon moving to the United States, Roger became a volunteer with the American Red Cross South Florida Region, took the courses to become a volunteer instructor and started teaching classes on his own since June.

Roger’s short time in teaching has brought him wide popularity, students and fellow instructors say.

“I bring real life examples to the classroom,” Roger says. “I think that helps them want to come back.  I become very involved with my students.”

Roger is just one example of the success of a new South Florida Red Cross initiative aimed at training volunteers to teach lifesaving courses such as CPR, First Aid, Babysitting, and teaching CPR for medical professionals or healthcare providers such as lifeguards.

“Everybody loves Roger because he shows that he’s enjoying what he’s doing,” said Jorge Medina Volunteer and Instructor Specialist at the American Red Cross South Florida Region. “The Red Cross was founded by volunteers, we’re led by volunteers, and we should have continued support for volunteers. When people see that volunteers are teaching these courses, they’re impressed. It makes a better impression on the community.”

Roger’s thirst to help is evident as he studying emergency management at Miami-Dade College.  He genuinely enjoys teaching and wants his students to learn beyond the classroom.

“I want students to leave the class with one valuable lesson and that is to save a life,” Roger says. “You never know when someone will need help. It’s important to know the steps you need to take to help others.”

Roger is humbled by the impact he has had on his students, who he hopes will also share in his views of volunteerism: “To be a volunteer is to ask nothing in return,” he says. “Merely to help someone in need is a personal fulfillment.”

Story by Red Cross volunteer Maritza Diaz
Photo by Red Cross Volunteer and Instructor Specialist Jorge Medina