The American Red Cross is hosting its first Clarkston Community Blood Drive, Thursday June 19, Friday, June 20, and Sunday, June 22.
‘The community has lots of smaller blood drives, through businesses and churches,? said organizer Christie Kojima. ‘We want to pull everyone together into one big blood drive ? it’s a way to build community spirit while saving lives.?
Schedule includes:
Thursday, June 19, Clarkston Brandon Community Credit Union, 8055 Ortonville Road, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Waterford Road, 2-8 p.m.; Independence Township Senior Center Carriage House, Clintonwood Park, 2-8 p.m.;
Friday, June 20, Independence Township Fire Department, Citation Drive, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Chase Plastics, Waldon Center Drive, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; and
Sunday, June 22, Clarkston United Methodist Church, Waldon Road, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.
“This is where businesses, churches, civic and community groups are coming together to join forces to make the greatest impact on building the area’s blood supply,” said Doreen Beason, senior representative for donor recruitment, American Red Cross.
Local law enforcement, EMS, and firefighters will also compete in the Battle of the Badges, a friendly competition to see who can get the most votes based on who recruited them as a blood donor. For every vote placed at a drive site, $1 will be donated to a police or fire charity fund, Beason said.
“This is a great service to the community,” said Robert Cesario, Independence Township EMS coordinator.
To make an appointment, go to www.givelife.com, sponsor code ‘Clarkston Community,? or call 248-922-6710. Walk-ins also accepted. Donors need not be Red Cross members to participate.
“We’re gaining momentum, “Kojima said. “Our goal is 300 appointment donors.”
American Red Cross offers a contest in which donors could win a trip to Florida, NASCAR trip, lease on a new vehicle, and other prizes.