A beautiful depiction of the multi-faceted mission of the Red Cross, the latest Wintrust mural illustrates the uplifting stories of triumph the organization is known for. Inspired by the powerful five lines of service that comprise the Red Cross mission in action to the local community, Chicago artist, Damon Lamar Reed’s creation represents the strength and stability the Red Cross provides.

“The Wintrust mural is a beautiful focal point for our community. Each day a moving work from a local artist is featured by Wintrust and we are so honored that the Red Cross has been selected to tell our story of humanitarian hope,” said Celena Roldán Sarillo, CEO of the Illinois Red Cross. “We proudly selected artist Damon Lamar Reed to tell our story of hope after disaster, of lifesaving blood collection and CPR training, of support for our military, and more. Damon’s powerful interpretive works align truth to reality and demonstrate optimism, resilience, and hope. We are grateful to Wintrust for giving us this opportunity to align our mission with Damon’s incredible talent.”

A humanitarian mission: Turning compassion into action

With a strong network of volunteers, donors, and partners, the Illinois Red Cross is there in times of need, ensuring that people affected by disaster are able to receive care, shelter, and hope. The mural serves as a reminder that everyone in our country has access to safe, lifesaving blood, that all members of our armed services and their families can find support and comfort when needed, and that in an emergency there are always trained individuals nearby — ready to use their Red Cross skills to save lives.

The lines of service in action

Red Cross volunteers work tirelessly to prevent and alleviate suffering in the face of emergency — down the street, across the country, around the world — their efforts make an impact on so many lives. Here’s a snapshot of the support they provide:

Disaster Relief: In the middle of the night, Red Cross volunteers in Chicago go to house fires to assist families who have lost everything by helping them find a warm bed. In the weeks and months to come, they continue to assist toward recovery — providing health services and medication support, disaster mental health counseling, and financial aid.

Blood Services: The Red Cross collects 40% of our nation’s blood supply and provides many of our local hospitals in Chicagoland with lifesaving blood for patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, or suffering from trauma.

Service to the Armed Forces: Supporting our military and their families from enlistment through veteran status, the Red Cross provides emergency notification services on deployment and more for service members.

Health and Safety: The Red Cross trains our community in lifesaving CPR and first aid — making a difference for so many during crucial moments where every minute counts.

Disaster Response and International Support: Local volunteers deploy to help nationally after tragic disasters such as wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes, and more. Internationally, as part of the world’s largest humanitarian network, Red Cross and Red Crescent teams provide relief and hope in nearly every corner of the globe.

The Wintrust Connection

For several years, Wintrust has been a proud partner of the Red Cross. Last year, Wintrust Executive Chairman of the Board and Founder Ed Wehmer served as the Honorary Chair of the annual Red Cross Heroes Breakfast. CEO of the Chicago Trust Company at Wintrust Mary Ann Korenic is a member of the Red Cross’s Greater Chicago Board of Directors, while CEO of the Illinois Red Cross Celena Roldán Sarillo serves as a board member on the Great Lakes Advisors for the Chicago Trust Company of Wintrust Investments.

Upcoming events

In May of 2024, the Illinois Red Cross will host the 22nd annual Heroes Breakfast — an uplifting event where the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago honors individuals and groups for acts of immense bravery, dedication, and service to the community. Incredible heroes walk quietly among us delivering kindness and making a difference every day. Now through December 31, 2023, the Red Cross invites you to nominate these local heroes in our community at redcross.org/heroes.

Comprised of 90% volunteers, the Red Cross is always in need of new members to take part in their humanitarian mission. Visit redcross.org to learn more and consider joining their incredibly impactful team.