LOCAL NON-PROFIT BLOOD CHALLENGE AT HALF-WAY POINT

Competition is Heating Up | Challenge Runs to May 26, 2011

Lethbridge – A Canadian Blood Services Nonprofit Blood Challenge kicked off earlier in April during National Volunteer Week [April 10-16] featuring a friendly competition between supporters for the Galt Museum & Archives, Volunteer Lethbridge Association, YMCA and Boys and Girls Club of Lethbridge.

 “After spending some time talking to Shamus Neeson of Canadian Blood Services last fall,” says Lori Harasem, Volunteer Coordinator at the Galt, “the importance of the need for blood really dawned on me and how easy it really is to help save a life - you don't have to be rich or have a degree in medicine, you just need a bit of time.” 

 According to Shamus Neeson, Community Development Coordinator for Canadian Blood Services Lethbridge, “cancer patients need up to 8 units of blood per week. That's 8 random strangers donating blood to help them out a week! It's not just accident victims that need blood or blood products.”

 “Since the Galt has almost 300 amazing volunteers who already are so willing to give of their time, engaging them in a challenge made sense,” says Harasem. “They will receive bonus “Museum Moolah” for use in the Museum Store after they and their friends and family donate blood. I know the Galt has the best volunteers and therefore I predict that at the end of May, the Galt will be the winner!”

 “Please call 1-888-2-DONATE (or 1-888-236-6283) and set up an appointment for anytime between now and May 26th to help the Galt win the nonprofit blood donor challenge,” says Harasem. “You will receive a token after you donate – oh, make sure you put it in the Galt’s jar!”

 Donors are encouraged to drink plenty of water the week before their appointment to make the donation easier. 

For details on the Galt Museum & Archives, visit www.galtmuseum.com, call 403.320-3954, or email info@galtmuseum.com.