(Houston, TX), January 19, 2017 – The American Red Cross of the Texas Gulf Coast announced today that broadcast journalism icon Dan Rather will offer the keynote address at its Wrapped in Red Luncheon, to be held on Thursday, March 23, at 12 p.m. at Hilton Americas-Houston, 1600 Lamar, Houston, Texas. The Wharton, Texas native will reflect on his 60 year career at the event, which is aimed at raising funds for critical community services while honoring donors and partners who help make those services possible.

“We are delighted that Mr. Rather will be our keynote speaker on March 23,” said Jessy Morgenroth, Red Cross Regional Chief Development Officer. “His unique perspective as a journalist chronicling six decades of world events will surely offer a memorable experience to all who attend.”

The event, co-chaired by Susan McEldoon, KHOU-TV President & General Manager and Chair of the Greater Houston Area American Red Cross Board of Directors, and Denise Castillo-Rhodes, Executive Vice-President, Chief Financial Officer, Finance and Administration for the Texas Medical Center and also a member of the Red Cross Board of Directors, will shine a light on what it takes to deliver services during disasters big and small.

“People often think of the Red Cross being there during large disasters, as they were during 2016’s devastating spring floods,” said McEldoon. “Many are not aware, however, of the breadth of services Red Cross volunteers and partners provide in everyday situations, like comfort after home fires, help for U.S. veterans and more. We are grateful Mr. Rather will help us celebrate these services and share why it’s important to support the Red Cross so it can continue to offer food, shelter and comfort to those in need.”

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross, a United Way agency, shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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