Although the American Red Cross of Cortland wasn't officially recognized until 1917, the foundation of the organization was laid during 1916. At this time, the war in Europe raged on as many brave Americans and Canadians volunteered to assist in England. Although the United States had not yet officially entered the war, the Red Cross was still intensely involved with the interest, concern, assistance, and human disaster aid the war made necessary. In 1916, the Cortland County Chapter of the American Red Cross in New York was organized with then Chairman Dr. H.T. Dana. Soon after, the need for local branches of the Red Cross was recognized as a means of efficient service to local areas in case of emergency or natural disaster. These organizational meetings took place during the beginning of World War I in Europe, and because of the timeliness of its services, impetus to form a local chapter elevated. In this first year, a Nursing Committee was organized to set up a course in Red Cross Nursing and also for First Aid. In addition, a Charitable Committee, assisting in equipping an Isolation Hospital, was established at the request of the Health Officer. Lastly, the First Annual Meeting of the Cortland County Chapter of the Red Cross was held on October 27, 1916, in the Parish House. These meetings and committees served as the groundwork for the Cortland County Chapter. By 1917, the Cortland County Chapter of the Red Cross had begun to assist in raising funds for the War Fund. At this early time, the Red Cross began taking immediate action on local problems in need of attention--a trait of the organization which is now legendary. These included the assistance to victims of fire and illness, servicemen's families, knitting, surgical dressings, bandages, clothing making, kits for servicemen, and general fundraising efforts. Although today some of the early versions of Red Cross services may be altered in some way, one thing remains the same--human nature. The desire to be useful, to serve, to reach out a helping hand to those who have need is probably the greatest motivating force in the long process of our involvement as human beings. The American Red Cross is and has always been a non-profit organization designed to assist all of those in need when an emergency strikes. For over 80 years, whether the Red Cross was found raising money for the War Funds in 1917 or aiding Cortland County during the severe flooding it experienced in 1996, the American Red Cross of Cortland has continually served its residents whenever needs arise.