Blood Drive a Success with 30 First-Time Donors

December 10, 2024

Cretin-Derham Hall students demonstrated their commitment to service and community during the annual blood drive organized by the Student Council under the guidance of science teacher Frances Sorenson. 

“Each year I am amazed by our student body’s support of this event,” said Sorenson. “Despite many of them expressing some nerves about the process, their courage and passion for helping others is clear as they push past these feelings with the lives of others in need as their focus.”

This year’s drive featured over 50 student volunteers who played a vital role in ensuring the event’s success. From checking in donors to monitoring their recovery, the volunteers worked tirelessly to create a smooth and welcoming experience for all participants. Leading the effort were Blood Drive Ambassadors Emily Boss '25 and Bauer Houge '25. The pair trained all the volunteers and coordinated closely with the Memorial Blood Center staff to keep the drive running seamlessly.

The drive saw over 90 appointments and walk-ins, resulting in approximately 75 successful donations. A large majority of these donors were students, many of whom were donating for the first time. 

“This year we had two phenomenal Blood Drive Ambassadors," said Sorenson. “Their leadership set the tone for an event that truly embodies our mission to care for the dear neighbor.”

Blood Drive Results

Drive goal: 80

Registered: 87

First Timers: 30 (We love that first time donors are taking the step to help save lives!)

Walk Ins: 10

Units collected: 74

Number of lives potentially saved: 222