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Scott Red Cross manager earns prestigious award

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Megan Friedl
  • 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  Not only do Airmen contribute to the mission, but civilians like Courtney Hinton, Scott American Red Cross Station Manager, have a big role at Scott Air Force Base.

Hinton was recently recognized by the St. Louis American Foundation for the 2015 class of Salute to Young Leaders Networking Awards Feb. 19. He was among a group of 20 African-American professionals under the age of 40 who received the award this year. They were nominated by their peers for their hard work and dedication to give back to their community.

Yvonne Berry, St. Louis American Red Cross Volunteer Services and Internship Program Director, who nominated Hinton said, "He epitomizes the qualification for this award: committed, compassionate and generous individuals who are making a positive impact in our community."

Hinton partners and collaborates with civilians, military members and their families in the St. Louis area to strengthen and help grow the Scott community.

Hinton said he manages to have a Red Cross blood drive at least once a month and another one every 56 days. Hinton and his team of staff, interns and volunteers perform Emergency Communications Services which relays important information to military personnel during family emergencies. They ensure that military families are connected with social service options and financial resources. Also, veteran programs run by his team provide veterans with reading material, comfort items, holiday meals and entertainment for local-area hospitalized veterans.

"His ingenuity and demonstrated resourcefulness are invaluable assets for our present and former military members and their families," said Berry.

He is in charge of running many educational programs, such as human and pet first aid, CPR, disaster preparation, babysitter's and aquatic classes for adults and children. He also brings in youth to volunteer at various units to help, especially during the busy summer months. He said he's glad that the youth are coming into volunteer, but he tries to put them at a unit where they are enjoying the work they're doing too.
He started out at the Red Cross 10 years ago as a volunteer and has worked his way up to the position he is at now.

Donald M. Suggs, president of the St. Louis American Foundation said of the 20 selected award winners, "These young people represent our best hopes and aspirations for a better future for our community."