PORT SALERNO, Florida/April 7, 2007 - The American Red Cross Martin County Chapter has received the prestigious honor of being named a High Performing Chapter during ceremonies in Baltimore, Maryland during the National Convention of the American National Red Cross. The Martin County Chapter is the only chapter in Florida to receive the performance award and among only 90 chapters nationwide receiving the honor. The Highly Performing Chapter awards recognize those Red Cross chapters that have met and exceeded standards of excellence in fiscal year 2007. This is the second year in a row the Martin County Chapter has received the award.

"We are very honored to receive this award," said Mary Sawyer, Executive Director, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter. "It not only signifies that our Chapter is a Highly Performing Chapter, it is also a tribute to our Board of Directors, our volunteers, and the many Martin County residents and businesses who have given their overwhelming support to the American Red Cross," added Sawyer.

The Martin County Chapter received a rating of 4, the highest possible, in the overall Standards Review. The review covers six basis categories: Governance, Financial

Strength/Stability, Service Delivery, Human Resources, Business Practices, and Organization Unity/Corporate Citizen. A total of 47 Standards are measured in the six categories.

With the honor of being named a Highly Performing Chapter by the American National Red Cross, the Martin County Chapter will again serve as a Best Practice Chapter for the region and be involved in national initiatives and decision making processes. The American National Red Cross also will send a special recognition letter to major donors who have supported the American Red Cross in Martin County.

"On behalf of our Board of Directors, volunteers, staff, and many American Red Cross supporters, I wish to say 'Thank You' for making this honor possible," concluded Sawyer.

Your Martin County Chapter of the American Red Cross is funded by local dollars. The Chapter receives no Federal, State or local tax funding. To donate your dollars or your time, contact the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter at (772) 287-2002 or visit the Chapter headquarters at 2750 South Kanner Highway, Stuart, Florida, 34994.

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