By Wayne Allen
It’s been 13 years since Sept. 11, 2001 — a day in which changed the lives of so many people, and the United States of America. As the country looks back, the American Red Cross is promoting service to others.
The American Red Cross is partnering with 9/11 Day (organization) to offer individuals a chance to help others and commemorate the events of Sept. 11 by giving blood or platelets or volunteering their time with the Red Cross.
The 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance started in 2002 and is intended to inspire a tradition of service on 9/11 each year. Each year tens of millions of people observe the day by performing acts of service and good deeds.
Debbie Smith, community executive of the Ohio River Chapter of the American Red Cross, said service to others is at the core of the Red Cross Mission.
“There is always a strong need for blood (donations) in the community. Very often with us coming out of summer months, our blood supply becomes depleted,” Smith said. “With all of the disasters that’s been occurring with flooding in July. We always have a need for volunteers and those willing to support us.”
Smith said there will be several Shawnee State University Students in the community on Saturday for its traditional 9/11 day of service. The students will be volunteering with various organizations.
According to the Red Cross, Blood donors of all types are needed particularly types AB, O negative, a negative and B negative and platelet donors. Type O negative is the universal blood type that can be transfused to patients of any blood type.
“The Red Cross is proud to partner with 9/11 Day and empower members of our communities to give blood and volunteer to commemorate this anniversary while making a profound contribution to community preparedness,” said Donna M. Morrissey, director of national partnerships in a released statement.
Those who would like to observe the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance by donating blood or platelets are encouraged to make an appointment.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities include, on September 28 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Valley High School, 1821 State Route 728, Lucasville.
On Sept. 16 and 17 blood drives will be held at Shawnee State University from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day.
A blood drive will be held Sept. 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Clay High School. A blood drive will be held from noon-5:30 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 610 4th Street in Portsmouth.
A blood drive will be held at South Webster High School on Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information about volunteer opportunities with the Ohio River Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross visit them on Facebook or call 740-354-3293.
Wayne Allen can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 1933 or on Twitter @WayneallenPDT
