Blood Drive Host

Thank you for your interest in hosting a blood drive! Below, you will find some resources to help you as you prepare to host a life-saving event!!

How to Host a Successful Blood Drive

  • 1. Reach Out to Local Blood Donation Centers

    As soon as possible, reach out to your local blood donation center to learn about scheduling opportunities. Each blood center has their own way of doing things—but most will be able to schedule you for a blood drive as soon as convenient for you. They will also help by providing promotional materials and answer any questions you might have about the process.

  • 2. Recruit Volunteers

    Blood drives are a great way to bring the community together around a good cause. You know your community best, so be creative! Would the youth like to pass out donuts to blood donors? Would a musical group like to provide musical accompaniment to relax donors as they give blood? Would members of a mediation group like help set up and break down?

    The possibilities are endless!

  • 3. Spread the Word

    Starting 5 weeks before the scheduled drive, utilize as many modes of communication as possible to spread the word about the upcoming drive.

    Some effective approaches include: on-site banners, fliers, and brochures; social media announcements (on your meditation center’s Facebook page, for instance); newsletters; bulletins; and personal calls.

  • 4. Use Faith in Blood

    If you have questions about how to connect your spiritual commitments to blood donation, spend time exploring the many resources we have here. From short blurbs for newsletters to reflections on Buddhist teachings, we have a treasury of material to help you communicate the spiritual good of blood donation.

  • 5. Get Commitments

    Two weeks before the drive, ask volunteers to set up a sign-up table . You can also ask volunteers to encourage their friends and family members to sign up. Another option is to offer online sign-ups through your meditation center website.

Resources for Blood Drive Hosts

  • Newsletter Announcement

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  • Blood Donation Compassion Mediation

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  • Vesak-Themed Announcement

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  • Dharma-Day-Themed Announcement

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Timing Your Blood Drive

  • National Blood Donor Month

    January is National Blood Donor Month in the US. If you aren’t located in America, check to see if your country has a national blood donor month. It’s a great time to join forces with donors all over the country to save lives!

  • In Sympathy

    During the grieving period for the loss of a loved one, many will host a blood drive in lieu of donations.

  • Feast Days and Other Religious Holidays

    Depending on your tradition, it can be very impactful to schedule a blood drive during times of the years that emphasize generosity and love of others. Vesak, Parinirvana Day, Avalokitesvara's Birthday, and Bhodi Day, for instance, are times to meditate on compassion by giving blood for the benefit of all.

  • World Blood Donor Day

    June 14 is a a special day to thank blood donors and encourage more people to give blood.