Why donating blood is important

Donating blood may make some feel queasy, but doing so can help save many lives. Let’s look at why giving blood is both a helpful and important humanitarian act. 

Image source: dailydot.com

Firstly, the process of donating blood is simple. You need to register, get your medical history checked, have a mini-physical, then make the donation. It is safe, too, requiring the use of a sterile needle that is unique to each donor and discarded immediately after use. The entire blood donation typically takes no more than 10 to 12 minutes. 

The average adult has about 10 pints of blood in his body, and about one pint is given during a donation. A healthy donor may donate red blood cells every 56 days, or double red cells every 112 days. Four types of transfusable products can be derived from our blood: red cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate. From a pint of donated blood, two or three of these transfusable products are produced. This means that each donation can help save more than one life. 

We often donate blood because a family member or a friend needs it, but we should give more regularly simply because it is the right thing to do. If we truly want to help others, this contribution is a great gesture that’s important in maintaining a healthy and reliable blood supply for our community.

Image source: redcross.org

Hi, there. My name’s Larry Polhill, an alumnus of the University of Florida. Right now, I’m immersed in various volunteer work. More on my advocacies here.

Three Ways A Nonprofit Can Show Heartfelt Gratitude For Donors

Without donors and volunteers, a nonprofit organization won’t be able to do much. The world’s most influential NGOs won’t be able to spread the significance of their cause if not for the time and effort given by their supporters. To show that each person’s contribution is valuable, here are some ideas for nonprofits to show their heartfelt gratitude.

Image Source: Unesco.org

1. Acknowledge their donation or service as soon as possible.

A quick response via e-mail or SMS after receiving a gift is a courteous way to show gratitude. Unfortunately, some charities wait a few weeks or even months before giving an update to donors. From my experience, donors just want to check if their contribution has been noticed. And they really deserve to know how their funds will be used.

2. Show them progress on the field

Isn’t it nice to know that one little act can cause a change in the society? A simple newsletter or a short video showing the organization’s efforts will make donors feel that they are truly part of the efforts. When they see how communities and people’s lives are changed, they will be inspired. It can be a weekly, monthly, or quarterly update. What matters is that you are able to share the story with them in such a way that will let them know that al the success was possible because of their commitment.

3. Organize an appreciation dinner or a similar gathering

Gathering all your donors and volunteers in one place can be a meaningful time not just for them but also for your organization and the people you serve. Witnessing the achievements together will inspire them to continuously support your cause. If you’ve been working with a group of people, perhaps you can invite them too so that they’ll have the opportunity to personally thank those who have made it possible for them to live better.

Showing heartfelt gratitude to these helpful people is a must. The efforts don’t have to be grand, but they have to be sincere. We have to continuously tell them that what we are able to accomplish is possible because of their unwavering support.

Image Source: Thebalance.com

HI there! My name is Larry Polhill. I’m a young philanthropist and poverty reduction advocate. Visit this blog for more updates.