Douglas County has had an American Red Cross chapter since 1916 that has provided disaster relief and filled other emergency needs in the community.

“We’re keeping it going because of the generosity of community members,” said Linda Robinson, a Lawrence school board member and co-chairwoman for the chapter’s annual fundraising campaign.

The chapter hopes to raise $25,000 in the next month.

Robinson and her husband, Dr. Scott Robinson, the medical director for Lawrence Memorial Hospital’s emergency department, are leading the campaign and encouraging “heroes” to help raise donations in the next month.

The campaign’s public kickoff breakfast event will be 7 a.m. April 16 at the Dole Institute of Politics, 2350 Petefish Drive. The annual campaign supports the chapter’s emergency response efforts, such as assisting families whose homes are damaged in fires or other disasters. It also funds local services such as disaster preparedness, health and safety education programs, and blood donation events.

“It’s a lifesaver for the chapter. It enables us to cover our expenses,” said Jane Blocher, the chapter’s executive director.

Linda Robinson said her husband, who is also the medical director for Lawrence-Douglas County Fire Medical, often sees Red Cross volunteers in action.

“In those roles, he’s very appreciative of what the Red Cross does for our community,” Linda Robinson said.

More information is at douglascountyks.redcross.org.