Direct Relief Volunteer Turns 107

One of the Earth’s longest-living volunteers reached a new milestone this week, as Santa Barbara resident and 40 years-and-counting Direct Relief International volunteer Edythe Kirchmaier turned 107.

Santa Barbara Chief of Police Cam Sanchez named her honorary Chief for a Day for her continued service and clean driving record, and former Chairman of the Board Tom Cusack announced Direct Relief’s plan to name a room after Kirchmaier in their new headquarters.

Kirchmaier stepped into the media spotlight two years ago on her 105th birthday, when the great grandmother and world’s oldest Facebook user raised over $105,000 in donations for her favorite charity. Those wishing to gift Edythe can make a donation to Direct Relief here. Deckers Outdoor Corporation has pledged to match the first 107 donations, up to $10,700.

As for her birthday wish, Kirchmaier said, “I hope to continue coming to Direct Relief for many years to come.”