CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – At a time when community-driven events are more important than ever to the Red Cross, the organization’s recent Broadcasters for Blood drive allowed them to collect 225 units of blood.

“This is an absolutely incredible amount of donations and I cannot overstate how pleased our team was with the turnout,” said Red Cross communications Director, John McNamara. “There was just so much passion and energy around the event, with so many supporters who’ve attended over the years and a lot of new faces as well. It’s great to see the community come together like that.”

One of the key takeaways from this event was the long-term impact of first-time donors. McNamara explained, “What we also know from this event is that first-time donors who show up are likely to come back. Not only to this drive but to others throughout the community. That’s a huge win for us.”

Anyone looking for another opportunity to donate to the Red Cross, they host blood drives every day at various locations. For those wondering how to find the nearest Red Cross blood drive, McNamara encouraged potential donors to visit their website.

“No matter when you come, your donation matters.” he said. “We need to collect nearly 13,000 units of blood every day to meet the needs of our hospital partners across the country.”

The true impact of the event is far more profound than just the number of units collected according to McNamara.

“It’s impossible to overstate the impact because every one of these blood donations touches a life,” he said. “Those 225 units represent 225 lives in the community that will be impacted. That’s because of just an hour of someone’s time and a selfless gift. We’re so grateful to everyone who answered the call.”

While the success of the blood drive is rooted in the generosity of the community, McNamara was quick to emphasize the vital role of local broadcasters in making the event possible.

“I cannot overstate the impact of our friends in radio and local media,” he said. “This doesn’t happen without their consistent amplification of our message over many weeks, speaking to the real impact that blood donations have in the community.”

Charlottesville media group, which owns Cville Right Now, was among the organizations that partnered with the Red Cross.

“We are so grateful to everyone who showed up to donate and so proud to be part of a community that answers the call to help others,” said Susan Terwilleger, event coordinator with Charlottesville Media Group. “Every pint collected represents hope for someone in need, and it’s truly inspiring to see the difference we can make together.”

McNamara also reinforced the point that every blood drive, regardless of size or scope, is a significant event.

“Every blood drive is a big event for us,” he said. “I don’t want to be cliché about it, but it’s true. We have drives every day and each one is part of our strategy to ensure that blood donations are accessible to the entire community.”

These drives, McNamara explained, are also key to ensuring that the blood supply reflects the needs of the communities the Red Cross serves.

“We’re very deliberate about where we hold our drives and who we partner with to make sure that we’re meeting the needs of our community,” said McNamara. “So, wherever you show up to donate, whether it’s our broadcaster drive or another, it’s a big event because it’s going to help patients get the care they need.”

For those who may not be eligible to donate blood but still want to help, McNamara emphasized the importance of volunteers. Over 90 percent of the Red Cross workforce is made up of volunteers and they are needed at every drive that the Red Cross hosts.

“Every one of our drives, including the Broadcasters for Blood drive, is supported by local volunteers who donate their time and talents,” said McNamara. “If you’re in the Charlottesville area or anywhere else and want to give back, visit redcross.org/volunteer. We would love to talk with you and find a position that fits your talents and availability.”

The success of the Red Cross blood drive is a testament to the power of community, collaboration and generosity. Through the efforts of local broadcasters, dedicated volunteers and the donors who answered the call, 225 lives will be impacted by this single event.

“We’re constantly reminded of how our audience will rally behind a good cause,” said Garrett Klingel, President and General Manager of Charlottesville Media Group. “It’s a testament to what our community can accomplish when we come together for a life-saving mission.”

The Red Cross continues to count on the kindness and support of the community to ensure that the blood supply is available to those in need.

For more information about daily blood drives or to find out how you can help, visit redcrossblood.org.