Scrubby Bear

The Scrubby Bear Program began at the American Red Cross in 1988 and it has been expanding ever since. This program has been presented throughout the Alachua County public school system for numerous years and reminds children and adults that infection can be fought through frequent hand washing. Children love Scrubby Bear and really respond well to his message: "Don't get sick, wash up quick!"

Scrubby Bear is a large bear mascot that presents a good hygiene message to children in a friendly, fun format. The Scrubby Bear program has a curriculum full of activities and lessons for teachers and instructors to use in the classroom and at outreach events.

Scrubby's presentation includes:

  • Glitter activity that simulates the spread of germs
  • Coloring sheets so children can remember Scrubby’s message
  • Fun songs so children can remember how to wash their hands
The Scrubby Bear Hand Washing Program is a FREE, half hour-long presentation that teaches children ages 3-7 about preventing the spread of infection through washing their hands. To schedule a presentation, call 352-376-4669.

Youth Preparedness Day

Youth Preparedness Day is an event catered toward the 8-10 year olds within the Gainesville community about how to respond to emergencies.

During this event participants have the opportunity to interact with emergency response personnel and vehicles from the Fire Department, Police Department, and the Poison Control Center. Our mission through this event is to teach the students tips and skills that will make their lives and the lives of others safer.

CPR-a-thon

March is Red Cross month and in order to celebrate, we host an annual CPR-a-thon. In one day, this mass training event aims to certify 200 people in Adult CPR from the Gainesville and nearby communities. Every 32 seconds someone in the U.S. dies of cardiac or respiratory arrest. That’s 112 people an hour; 2,700 a day; 985,500 a year. To help our community be better prepared, we offer the course at a reduced price.

This event is made possible by our amazing volunteers, both in an instructor capacity and as support staff. Each instructor is responsible for answering questions and assessing skills demonstrated by ten students. A lead instructor is responsible for keeping the group instructors in sync and presenting the course content. The general support staff aids in room set up and registration.