Baltimore-Based Red Cross Holocaust Tracing Center Recognized for 20 Years of Work

For 20 years the American Red Cross Holocaust and War Victims Tracing Center has worked on behalf of persons seeking the fates of loved ones missing since the Holocaust and its aftermath.

Last week, the Center’s volunteer Advisory Board was recognized for their efforts in guiding the success of this little known program at the American Red Cross National Awards and Recognition Dinner. Members of the Advisory Board were presented with the International Humanitarian Service Award by Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, American Red Cross national board chair. This free-of-charge national service has been based out of the Baltimore Red Cross office since 1991. 

The Center has uncovered the fates of more than 16,000 individuals missing since the Holocaust and WWII, bringing closure to family members with the confirmation of death or deportation of their kin. This amazing program has also found more than 1,500 persons still living and reunited them with their long lost loved ones. 

The Center also assists U.S. residents searching for proof of internment, forced/slave labor, or evacuation from former Soviet territories for themselves or family members. This documentation may be required for reparations. The American Red Cross partners with a worldwide network of more than 180 Red Cross and Red Crescent societies and the Magen David Adom in Israel. We also consult museums, archives, and international organizations to further facilitate tracing requests. 

The International Humanitarian Service Award is given annually and recognizes an individual or group whose work exemplifies or inspires the humanitarian values of human dignity, respect, compassion and the protection and assistance implied in the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

To request a trace or to make a contribution to the American Red Cross contact Sue Bornemann at 410/624-2094 or visit www.redcross.org.