SUMMARY:

On December 17th, 2017, ASA held their first annual blood drive. With over two years worth of barriers to overcome, including not having a physical space to hold the drive, lack of education about donating blood, and the absence of the amount free time needed from ASA board members, ASA was finally able to run this event through the Red Cross. ASA also partnered with the organization "Who is Hussain," who provided information about their organization and gave armbands to some donors and volunteers.

 

After four months of actively working on the blood drive, AhlulBayt Student Association, along with five community volunteers, was able to show the fruits of their labor. With the help of these volunteers and donors, ASA surpassed their donation goal and the Red Cross was able to collect blood from 27 people, 25 of whom were first-time donors! The Red Cross then used these donations to save the lives of up to 81 people. Holding this blood drive was an amazing accomplishment that could not have been done without the assistance of everyone who donated blood, volunteered, or simply showed support. 

 

ASA hopes to hold their next blood drive in September, 2018 during the month of Muharram.