FOREST CITY – To help the American Red Cross ensure a sufficient blood supply this winter season, Waldorf College is hosting a We Challenge U blood drive on Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2015 from 11:00 – 4:00 at the Atrium. Those who come to give will receive a Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.
The We Challenge U program is a friendly competition that encourages college students to get involved in the community by organizing Red Cross blood drives and recruiting faculty and friends to give blood during the winter months. Donors from high school and college blood drives account for about 20 percent of donations given through the Red Cross.
Through We Challenge U, the student blood drive coordinator in each of the three Red Cross Blood Services Divisions whose drive collects the highest percent of their established blood collections goal will win a $500 gift card. In addition, all blood drive coordinators whose blood drives meet or exceed their goal will be eligible to win one of five $100 gift cards; winners will be determined via a raffle.
“Donating blood takes about an hour of your time and could help save up to three lives,” said Mary Mathiasen, Director of Student Health Services at Waldorf College. “Waldorf challenges the students, staff, faculty and Forest City community to roll up a sleeve and give blood at our upcoming drive. Donating blood is an easy way to volunteer, and it helps patients in need.”
Waldorf students, faculty, staff and alumni are encouraged to download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment to donate. For more information about the drive, contact Mary Mathiasen at 641-585-8157 or email: mathiasem@waldorf.edu.
All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
