Find a Blood Drive
Find a Blood Drive
MADISON, Wis. (Jan. 26, 2021) — Ethan Kaji of Madison helped save lives by hosting an American Red Cross blood drive this past fall and earned a $1,500 scholarship as a result of his lifesaving efforts.
As part of the Red Cross Leaders Save Lives program, the Madison West High School student hosted a blood drive at the Radisson Hotel in Madison on Oct. 22, 2020, which collected 76 blood donations. As a result, Kaji was entered in a drawing to win a scholarship and was chosen as a winner. Kaji was also awarded a gift card.
Kaji is currently a senior attending Madison West High School who anticipates graduating in June. He is also a member of the National Honor Society and looks forward to pursuing a higher education in healthcare. After learning about the Leaders Save Lives program, Kaji thought participating would be a great way to interact with other students, give back to the community and explore options in the healthcare industry.
“I improved my organizational capabilities and enhanced my ability to work responsibly,” Kaji said about his experience. “The Red Cross staff were all very kind and helpful. I loved talking and encouraging others to donate blood. This is a wonderful opportunity to make a difference in other people’s lives.”
Madison West High School has a long-standing tradition of sponsoring Red Cross blood drives. Since the school was closed due to the pandemic the Radisson Hotel graciously allowed their location to be used for the blood drive.
Blood donors from high school and college blood drives account for about 20 percent of donations given through the Red Cross during the school year. The Leaders Save Lives program encourages community-minded high school and college students to host blood drives to help maintain the blood supply for patients in need of lifesaving transfusions. As the pandemic wears on in 2021, blood donations remain essential to the health of our communities.
Students can sign up now to participate in the Leaders Save Lives spring program for drives now through May 31, 2021. For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org/LeadersSaveLives.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.