American Red Cross Celebrates 2024 Local Heroes

The American Red Cross of Southeast Wisconsin is pleased to announce the local heroes that will be honored at its 2024 Brave Hearts Gala on Thursday, May 9 at
5 p.m. at The Garage at the Harley-Davidson Museum.

The annual Brave Hearts Gala celebrates the humanitarian mission of the American Red Cross and the local heroes who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to build better communities and make a positive impact on the lives of others. This year’s event will include dinner, a live and silent auction and the inspiring stories of our 2024 Heroes.

“It is an honor to recognize the significant contributions of these community members who have gone above and beyond, to help those in need,” said Mark Thomas, CEO and Regional Executive for the Red Cross of Wisconsin. “Their kindness, compassion, and selfless service truly embody the humanitarian spirit of the American Red Cross. We look forward to sharing their stories and we know that everyone who attends this year’s event will be truly inspired.”

Heroes in eight categories will be honored: Blood Services Hero, Community Impact Hero, Disaster Relief Hero, Emergency Response Hero, William J. Murgas Hero, Military Hero, Red Cross Hero, and Youth & Young Adult Hero. These categories reflect various aspects of the Red Cross mission.

The 2024 Heroes are:

• Blood Services Hero – Silvia Ortega
• Community Impact Hero – Todd Jackson
• Disaster Relief Hero – Tim Lavin
• Emergency Response Hero – Milwaukee Fire Chief Aaron Lipski
• William J. Murgas Hero – Steve Buck
• Military Hero – Matthew McDonell
• Red Cross Hero – Marge Gaeth
• Youth & Young Adult Hero – Whitnall High School Red Cross Club

The 2024 Brave Hearts Gala is made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors: Brewers Community Foundation, Clarios, Generac Power Systems, Halo Branded Solutions, Johnson Controls, Milwaukee Business Journal, Molson Coors, Northwestern Mutual, and Snap-on. All proceeds benefit the programs and people helped by the Southeast Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross.