Noora Hosseinzadeh
Staff Writer
Each year, an estimated 6.8 million people donate blood to the American Red Cross. This selfless act plays a vital role in supporting the well-being of those in need, with over 10 million people in North Carolina alone benefiting from the dedicated efforts of volunteers and donors.
R.J. Reynolds High School was previously a hotspot for donations, with their Red Cross Club orchestrating an annual blood drive for students and parents. The drive was successful for many years until it gradually lost momentum; however, this year the club has made a resurgence.
The revived RJR’s Red Cross Club is hosting its first blood drive in seven years, which may bring the school’s title as a “blood hotspot” back into fruition. Jenna Whitner, the club’s sponsor, has high hopes that it will grow into something bigger
“I think our club is still very young,” Whitener said. “So I think that it’s not something that’s very grounded yet, but I’m hoping it comes up and exists as a way for students to not only feel involved with the outside community but provide for other people, because blood is one of the things that is always needed.”
It’s spectacular to see the students of RJR get so involved in community service. Their contributions, no matter how big or small, are crucial in ensuring those in need have access to a stable and sufficient blood supply. The Red Cross will supply the proper medical materials and draw the blood itself, allowing for the blood drive to run with order.
“Our job as the Red Cross Club is to help people set up, check in, and sign in; we are basically running all of the tables so it is more of a support thing, Whitener said. “The Red Cross organization are the ones working with the blood, but the Red Cross Club is working in conjunction with them to make it happen.”
To return the blood drive to its former glory, RJR’s Red Cross Club need as many donors as they can get. Participation is key to a successful blood drive, and it is in the hands of students and parents alike to give enough blood that the Red Cross sees RJR fit to continue hosting.
“Our goal for this year is pretty much just thirty people because it’s the first time we’ve had it in five or six years,” Whitener said. “If we hit that goal, we get to stay a club and do it again next year. If not, the Red Cross might not consider us to host.”
The blood drive invites all parents, staff, and students. Adults and anyone over 18 can walk in on the day of to donate, and students over the age of 16 are welcome to donate with parental permission.
Remember, support is crucial as the Red Cross endeavors to collect as much blood as possible for a noble cause. This blood drive aims to make a significant impact on the people of Winston-Salem and there is hope that it will continue for years to come. Let’s continue to make RJR a place that works to aid their community.