Raquel Campos Franco, professor and researcher at Católica Porto Business School, is part of the new team at the Portuguese Red Cross in Porto, alongside Luís Sena de Vasconcelos (president) and Teresa Pereira (treasurer). The swearing-in ceremony for the new Board of Directors was attended by around 250 guests at the emblematic Palácio da Bolsa.

"It's an honour to be able to serve the Red Cross in Porto, an organisation with such a noble mission, which supports so many people, whether in emergencies, first aid training or in various social areas, from children to the elderly," said Raquel Campos Franco, highlighting the importance of this institution in supporting vulnerable communities.

Several personalities spoke at the ceremony, including Nuno Melo, Minister of National Defence, who stressed the essential role of the Portuguese Red Cross in responding to the population's needs. António Saraiva, National President of the Portuguese Red Cross, Fernando Paulo, Councillor of Porto City Council, and Nuno Botelho, President of the Porto Commercial Association, were present. The Universidade Católica Portuguesa was also represented by Pro-Rector Isabel Braga da Cruz, who congratulated the new Administrative Committee and, in particular, Raquel Campos Franco for her commitment to the organisation's humanitarian mission.

The impact of the Porto Red Cross on the community is remarkable: the organisation has provided education for more than 100 children, supported more than 200 families in vulnerable situations, combated the social isolation of 300 elderly people, assisted more than 4,000 people in emergency situations and trained 1,500 citizens in first aid. With a renewed management and a commitment to promoting sustainable solutions, the Porto Red Cross continues to be an essential community support pillar.