Josh has been involved with the American Red Cross Santa Monica chapter for over five years and has done a really incredible job—primarily with motivating youth.
“(Fergie) loved the idea that I was sort of spearheading this thing, that I was taking the initiative to do it—because I’ve never really organized anything like it before," he said. "So she was able to come out for the Japan run that we did on her birthday—it was a great way to celebrate and we had a blast.” Over 4,000 people came out to support that relief effort.
Duhamel was recently awarded with the Crystal Cross at the annual Red Cross Red Tie Affair, the highest honor the American Red Cross bestows on its celebrity supporters.
The actor was recognized for his success in organizing youth runs to raise money for the victims of the earthquakes in Haiti and Japan. When the earthquake and tsunami hit Japan earlier this year, Duhamel and his wife, Black Eyed Peas lead singer, Fergie, were especially affected.
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| Duhamel and wife Fergie |
“The Black Eyed Peas have a very close relationship with Japan,” says Duhamel. “They go there quite often. They were shooting a video just four days before the earthquake and tsunami struck there. So Fergie was really upset by the news.” Duhamel took action and organized a second youth run for the American Red Cross.
“(Fergie) loved the idea that I was sort of spearheading this thing, that I was taking the initiative to do it—because I’ve never really organized anything like it before," he said. "So she was able to come out for the Japan run that we did on her birthday—it was a great way to celebrate and we had a blast.” Over 4,000 people came out to support that relief effort.
When Duhamel isn’t busy organizing youth runs, he’s preparing for a disaster closer to home. “First aid and CPR classes are available at the Red Cross—they’re not a bad idea, because it can literally make the difference between life and death,” said Duhamel. “The better equipped we are to handle emergencies; the better off we’ll all be if a disaster happens here in Los Angeles. I’ve been certified in CPR, but it’s been years. I’m going to get re-certified in the next couple of weeks.”
