Just Your Type - Lifesaver Clubs Bring in 60% of State Blood Supply

Lifesaver Clubs Bring in 60% of State Blood Supply

Blood Bank of Hawaii Lifesaver Clubs are a vital part of Hawaii’s community blood program, bringing in more than half of the state’s blood supply. With more blood needed now than ever before, the Blood Bank of Hawaii plans to renew the commitment of existing clubs and bring new community-minded organizations on board.

The Hawaii Police Department is one of the first Lifesaver Clubs who continue their commitment to meeting the community's blood needs.

“We are so grateful for the commitment of many businesses and organizations that help meet the needs of Hawaii’s patients, explained BBH President & Medical Director Robyn Yim, M.D.” Their support of Lifesaver Clubs benefits the entire state. We will be asking other companies to join us in our efforts this year.

What is a Lifesaver Club?
Lifesaver Clubs are organizations that have made a commitment to support their community by participating in regularly scheduled blood drives. They help save thousands of lives and serve as a valuable resource during times of emergency or low donor turnout.

Lifesaver Clubs consist of organizations of every size, businesses, schools, churches and civic groups all working together to help ensure that blood will be available for everyone.

Examples include:

high school students making their first donation, entering the adult world of community service.
Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard workers reporting faithfully every eight weeks for their regularly scheduled donations.
The loyal donors of Hilo who came together to support the very first Neighbor Island blood drive in 1948... and whose commitment and dedication continue today.

A 24-Year History
The Lifesaver Club was established in 1978 out of concern over the increasing need for blood.

Individual and business and community leaders took the initiative to establish a system that would help keep the blood supply at a safe level. Some of the first Lifesaver Club members include:

First Hawaiian Bank
First Insurance Company
Hawaiiian Electric Company
Hawaiian Telephone Company • Sheraton Waikiki
Straub Clinic & Hospital • Times Super Market

We’re Counting on You!
To be considered a Lifesaver Club, companies or organizations must:

Have a coordinator designated by a CEO or club leadership.
Provide opportunities for employees or members to learn about the never-ending need for blood.
Establish an annual goal for pints of blood drawn.
Set a participation goal based on a percentage of employees or members.

To find out more about becoming a Blood Bank of Hawaii Lifesaver Club, please contact BBH Director of Donor Services Wendy Abe at 848-4756. From neighbor islands call 1-800-372-9966.