Students gather at the local blood donation event to contribute. PN Photo/Jalayna Pough.
By Jalayna Pough
UNCP’s wrestlers organized the annual community blood drive in the UC Annex building on Sept. 7. The event was supported by The Blood Connection, a local community blood center.
The hosts provided safe social distaning and snacks for the donors.
Many of UNCP students joined in to show their support by volunteering.
Christopher Dickey, a sophomore with a double major in exercise and sports science and psychology, was one of the volunteers.
“I wanted to give back to my community,” Dickey said.
His motivation for donating came from his strong bond with his wrestling team and his hope that his blood might have the potential to save a life.
For the last three years, Dickey has been a donor, and he wants to donate for as long as he is physically able.
Throughout the event, UNCP wrestlers were observed assisting fellow donors with the sign-in process. Pembroke locals also turned out to show their support for the blood drive by being volunteers and donors.
One of the locals was Bernadine “Bernie” Bullard, who committed herself to aiding those in need donates to the center, inspired by her mother’s battle with lymphoma.
Bernadine strives to make donations regularly, ensuring she honors her personal dedication to both herself and her mother. Bernadine also tries to encourage young people to give as well.
“Stay healthy and give.” Bernadine said.
Participating in community contributions is a motivating experience for many individuals, especially with the added incentive of receiving a $60 Amazon gift card after their donation.
The Blood Connection is scheduled to return to UNCP on Nov. 20 going from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students who donate in the next drive will also receive a $60 amazon e-gift card as an incentive.
The Blood Connection has locations in Asheville, Hendersonville, and Raleigh as well as mobile units. Physical locations are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p..m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
For more information on The Blood Connection you can visit their website at https://thebloodconnection.org. For information about donating call 864-751-1154, or email tbcrewards@thebloodconnection.org.