5 Steps to Planning a Blood Donation Drive in Your Community
We’ve all heard the catchphrase: Donate blood, save lives. And it really is that simple – according to the American Red Cross, just one pint of blood can save up to three lives. Across the US, over six million people donate blood every year – and what better way to boost that figure than to organize a blood donation drive in your community for International Good Deeds Day on April 10, 2016. This simple 5-step guide takes you through the whole process.
1. FIND A PLACE
The first step to planning a blood drive is to find a suitable location, such as a public square or a community center. A few points to keep in mind: a comfortable waiting area for donors, likely weather conditions on the day and easy access to parking or public transport.
2. CONTACT YOUR LOCAL RED CROSS
Hosting a blood drive is a partnership – between your community and your local Red Cross. Get in touch to schedule your drive, and find out specific information for your area.
3. DO YOUR RESEARCH
As the blood donation drive host, you’re responsible for setting up shop. That means providing equipment such as tables, chairs and trash cans, along with drinks and refreshments. The American Cross also has a bunch of handy tips and toolkits available online.
An American Red Cross blood drive in Garden City, New York (littleny / Shutterstock.com)
4. RECRUIT VOLUNTEERS
You’ll need help on the day of the blood drive, so once you’ve got a date and place set it’s time to recruit some volunteers. To make things easier, add a note in your community newsletter and take advantage of relevant social media channels.
5. ADVERTISE THE BLOOD DRIVE
Last but not least – time to advertise the event to your community. Again, email blasts and social media posts are a cheap, easy way to get the word out about your blood donation drive. If your community has a local center you can also go the old fashioned route and hang some flyers to cover your bases.
