Knoxville to Host Blood Drive and Voting Event on October 29

Knoxville Hosts Vital Blood Drive Combined with Voting Opportunity

Knoxville is gearing up for a meaningful community event on October 29, 2024. The MEDIC Regional Blood Center is teaming up with the Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians to make it easier for citizens to engage in two essential civic duties: voting and donating blood. This special event will take place at the Girl Scouts parking lot located at 1567 Downtown West Boulevard, Knoxville, TN 37919.

When and Where

Join us on October 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This timing aligns perfectly with the early voting period, allowing those heading to the Downtown West location to take care of both their voting and blood donation responsibilities in one go! How convenient is that?

A Sweet Incentive

For those who take part in both activities, there’s a delightful bonus waiting for you! Every voter and blood donor will receive a special gift from MEDIC, along with a sleeve of Girl Scout cookies. That’s right; you can do your part for the community and indulge in some tasty treats at the same time!

The Community Impact

According to Kristy Altman, the Vice President of Communications and Public Relations at MEDIC, “This is a great way for community members to perform their civic duty in one place.” MEDIC has had a successful partnership with the Girl Scouts this year, and they see this upcoming drive as a great way to wrap up the early voting season.

Lynne Fugate, CEO of Girl Scouts of the Southern Appalachians, echoed this sentiment by stating, “We are proud to partner with MEDIC Regional Blood Center to encourage the importance of both voting AND giving blood.” She highlights how educating young individuals—including Girl Scouts—on the significance of participating in voting and charitable actions can foster positive change and strengthen democracy in the community.

Understanding the Importance

Both voting and blood donation carry significant weight in our society. Every blood donation can save lives of all ages right in our backyard, making a difference that could last a lifetime. It’s simple and quick to donate; donors just need to dedicate a short amount of time to potentially save multiple lives.

As this event falls during the early voting period, it also serves as a timely reminder that every vote matters. Taking part in this drive not only supports those in need of blood but also reinforces the democratic process in our community.

How to Participate

While appointments for blood donation are preferred to streamline the process, walk-in donors are more than welcome! If you’re interested in donating, it’s easy to reserve your spot. Just call 865-524-3074, or visit medicblood.org/donate. Alternatively, download the new MEDIC donor app to find the nearest donation drive and schedule your appointment with ease.

More Information

If you have questions regarding eligibility for blood donation or need more information, feel free to check out medicblood.org/eligibility/. You can also reach out to Kristy Altman directly at [email protected] or call her at 865-805-2008. They’re eager to answer any questions you might have!

Make it a day of civic pride and responsibility! Gather your friends and family, head out to the Girl Scouts parking lot on October 29, and enjoy a day of giving back to the community.