In what has been a challenging year for everyone across Alberta, Red Deer College athletes still found a way to give back to those in need.
RDC Kings and Queens’ athletes competed in The Bleed Green Challenge – a friendly competition – from Feb. 22-26, dueling to see who could garner the most blood donations, in partnership with Canadian Blood Services.
Throughout the duration of the blood drive, more than 65 donations were made as a direct result of the college initiative. RDC Queens volleyball led the way with 21 donations.
“It has been a challenging year for everyone, including our student-athletes, but they remain committed to showing leadership and giving back to the community, which has been supportive of their academic and athletic pursuits,” said Kylie Thomas, RDC vice president academic and research.
Since the pandemic, almost a year ago, blood donations have substantially reduced, while the need for donations has remained high.
“We are truly grateful for the opportunity to bring awareness to the importance of blood donations and for the incredible support that has extended into the Red Deer community and beyond,” says Jennifer Gretzan, associate director, donor relations, Canadian Blood Services.
“Canadian youth represent the next generation of blood donors and play a very important role in ensuring that we are able to meet the needs of Canadian patients. Partnerships like these help us recruit new donors and are key to the future of Canada’s lifeline.”
RDC Student-Athletes Advisory Council is also planning a Food Drive-Thru on March 27 in support of the Red Deer Food Bank.