NATCHEZ — The survival of the Adams County Chapter of the Red Cross hinges on volunteers.

That was the focus of Thursday night’s annual chapter meeting.

“If it wasn’t for you volunteers and you doing the things you’re doing, none of it would happen,” board chairman Stan Owens said in his opening remarks.

And while some volunteers have been trained to assist with everything from helping with shelters in case of disasters to answering phones, the chapter needs more, he said.

Board secretary Angie Brown presented awards to volunteers Dawn Taylor and Janet McCann who died this past year.

Owens presented an award of appreciation to recently retired director John Goodrich.

“John has given his heart, his money, his time and his sweat,” Owens said. “And I hope to see John back in that door often.”

Goodrich, too, emphasized the importance of volunteers.

“This chapter’s blessed with some real good people,” Goodrich said. “The Red Cross cannot exist without you as volunteers. Please encourage your families and friends to become volunteers.”

Another important asset to the chapter is fundraising, he said. All the money the chapter receives come from local donations.

“Nothing comes down the pipe to us,” he said. “Anything you can do to help is really appreciated.”

To that end, the Natchez Firefighters Association presented the board with a $5,000 check, proceeds from the March Annual Firefighters’ Ball. Another $5,000 went to the Natchez Children’s Home.