Rock River Chapter Red Cross director resigns

From press release

Dr. Robert Willis, executive director of the Rock River Chapter of the American Red Cross, has announced his resignation, effective Sept. 30.

A veteran educator and former superintendent of the Des Plaines School District, Dr. Willis led the agency through 453 local relief operations including four that were declared national disasters.

“The devastating Labor Day flood in 2006 struck only a month after I started,” he shares. “I was struck by the community’s response to the needs of their neighbors in distress. And since then, I’ve continued to be moved and profoundly touched by the generosity of people in the Rock River Valley.”

Last year, the local chapter responded to more than 50 disaster operations consisting of mostly residential fires; ultimately assisting 82 families with food, shelter and clothing.

“My hope is that the Rock River Chapter continues to be a viable and effective organization with the full support of local companies and citizens,” Willis said. “It has truly been an honor to lead such a dynamic group of professionals and volunteers.”

An executive search has begun for a replacement.

The mission of the American Red Cross is to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. For more information about the Rock River Chapter and how you can help support this mission, visit rockriver.redcross.org or call (815) 963-8471.