The Adams County chapter of the American Red Cross is at a crossroads. The chapter, which John Goodrich has served since March as interim director, interviewed applicants earlier this week for its director’s post. In addition, the chapter’s leadership &045;&045; including a core group of dedicated volunteers &045;&045; must bring the agency’s operations up to the Red Cross’ stringent national standards in less than a year.

At the same time, the nonprofit must continue its core tasks. Those include public education, assistance for military families and help for disaster victims, whether they’re victims of hurricanes or house fires.

But to accomplish its mission during a reorganization period, the chapter needs your help in the form of:

4Money. Perhaps there’s nothing you’d rather hear less than a plea for money, especially during the cash-strapped post-holiday season. Instead, try thinking of it as an investment rather than a handout. You’re giving to an agency with decades of experience in serving people in their time of need.

And next time disaster strikes, your family, friends and neighbors &045;&045; or you yourself &045;&045; could be the ones in need.

4Talents and time. Would you be willing to help set up a storm shelter if needed? Are you an excellent swimmer willing to instruct others in lifesaving techniques? Are simply willing to help answer phones, or could you help organize fund-raisers? Chances are, your local Red Cross chapter can use you.

4Ideas. The local chapter alone needs tens of thousands of dollars per year to survive and to accomplish its mission, and most of those dollars come from fund-raisers. That means the Red Cross is always looking for new fund-raising ideas. Who knows? You might come up with something they haven’t thought of yet. The Red Cross has a big mission to fulfill, and at a critical time in its history. But with your help, it could be a mission accomplished.