Salt Lake City-based company is a longtime partner of the Red Cross of Utah
The American Red Cross of Utah announced today that Salt Lake City-based O.C. Tanner has generously donated $10,000 to support the ongoing Red Cross relief efforts for the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles County. Red Cross staff and volunteers are tirelessly providing crucial assistance to those impacted, with relief efforts expected to continue for months.
“We’re grateful for the Red Cross and all the emergency responders for the immediate aid they extended to those impacted by the devastating wildfires in California,” said Scott Sperry, president and CEO of O.C. Tanner. “At O.C. Tanner, our focus is on people and helping individuals, teams, companies and communities thrive. We appreciate our community partners that have provided great support for those in need and hope this donation can help in that mission.”
O.C. Tanner, a global company focused on employee recognition and workplace culture improvement, offers software, tools and awards to help organizations create positive and engaging work environments. The Utah-based company has a long history of improving lives and health in Utah, across the United States, and around the world through charitable programs and financial donations.
“We are deeply thankful to O.C. Tanner for their generous commitment to our lifesaving mission,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “As families and communities face more frequent and intense disasters, support from organizations like O.C. Tanner enables the Red Cross to provide critical assistance and make a meaningful difference for those in need.”
Continued Support for Wildfire Victims
The Red Cross is also supporting affected communities by providing technical expertise to Long-Term Recovery Groups (LTRGs), community-led organizations comprised of local nonprofits, community members, dedicated to helping their community recover in weeks, months, even years to come.
As communities reopen, Red Cross volunteers are there with support including cleaning supplies, flashlights, face masks, gloves, water and other essentials. More than 100,000 relief items have already been provided. The Red Cross is also delivering financial assistance and working closely with local governments, community groups, and nonprofit organizations to address immediate and long-term needs.
Recently, two senior members of the Red Cross of Utah were deployed to support the Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts. Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region, and Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter, were liaisons between the Red Cross and government officials to facilitate effective disaster response and recovery.
Catastrophic Wildfires
The wildfires in Los Angeles County, which began in early January 2025, have caused widespread destruction. Severe drought conditions, strong Santa Ana winds, and an abundance of dry vegetation fueled these fires, resulting in the loss of at least 30 lives. The Palisades and Eaton fires were particularly devastating, with thousands of acres burned, tens of thousands of residents displaced, and significant property destruction, including homes and businesses.
This disaster ranks among the most catastrophic wildfire events in Los Angeles history and raises urgent concerns about the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires linked to climate change.
Support Disaster Relief Efforts
Help those affected by disasters large and small by making a financial contribution to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and support recovery efforts for disaster survivors. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
