Thursday the annual Mayor’s Ball will be held in an effort to support the Black Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross.

The dance, dinner and fellowship are not the only benefits to attending such an event, rather it is another chance to help an organization whose core mission is to be there to help people. Plain and simple.

The Red Cross’ services begin — and in many cases end — with helping those here in the counties of the Black Belt.

When a fire destroys a family’s home, the Red Cross is there to help offer aid, temporary housing, clothing and food.

When a tornado strikes, the Red Cross is there to provide volunteers offering water, clothing and necessities to victims, offering meals to rescue workers and in short, doing whatever it takes to help a community bounce back.

And, probably most recognizable, the Red Cross provides a network of blood banks, collection points and research to serve area hospitals.

According to the Red Cross’ website, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. More than 380,000 donations are needed every day just to meet the need.

And, one out of every 10 people admitted to a hospital needs blood.

The American Red Cross — and the chapter here in the Black Belt — helps lead the effort to ensure blood drives are held and local facilities are kept stocked to help those when help is needed.

In everything the Red Cross does, their focus is on helping.

When they need our help by attending a dinner and a dance, are we going to say no? It seems like they ask so very little for providing our region so very much.

For more information on the Mayor’s Ball, set for Thursday at the Carl C. Morgan Convention Center call (334) 874-4641.