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Outstanding Kona Volunteer Makes Impact
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Kona volunteer Janice Onakay |
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Hawaii’s patients have greatly benefited from Janice Onaka’s contributions since she began volunteering with the Blood Bank of Hawaii four years ago.
A Recruiting Powerhouse
In her very first volunteer assignment, Onaka telerecruited 200 people to a Kona blood drive. She was disappointed when 159 donors showed up, only to find out later that it was a record-setting drive for Kona.
Onaka now focuses on attending the blood drives and scheduling donors’ for the next blood drive. “She knows so many donors by name and is very proactive in asking donors to give the gift of life again,” said Aaron Knapp Director of Donor Services. “Approaching donors individually and asking them to donate is so much more effective than simply leaving a sign-up sheet on a table.”
Consistent and Caring
Onaka consistently volunteers at every Kona blood drive. She understands the mission of the Blood Bank of Hawaii and recently used her personal connections with blood recipients from the community to share the message on the importance of donating with others.
A Community Resource
As a long-time Big Island resident, Onaka is familiar with many people and places. She put her BBH representative in contact with organizations in other areas of West Hawaii with strong new donor potential. Last year, two blood drives were held for the first time in the Kealakekua area as a result of her efforts. She is always on the lookout for other groups and businesses that can help keep the community strong through blood drive participation.
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