Red Cross honors Cerritos College for successful blood drives

NORWALK – Cerritos College was recognized with the American Red Cross’ prestigious Platinum Award last month for donating 946 units of blood. The college has hosted the American Red Cross’ blood drive since 2005, four times a year.

The average collection at the college ranges from 50-60 units of blood that equals 150 lives saved each the day the college hosts a blood drive.

“The American Red Cross needs to collect 1,500 blood units a day to maintain our local hospitals in Southern California,” said Guinevere Endter, senior account manager for American Red Cross Southern California Blood Services. “Cerritos College makes this happen when they host us. Students, faculty and staff are so supportive of the blood drive.”

Cerritos College’s Student Health Services team helps coordinate blood drives. Student volunteers from the college’s healthcare student program, Project HOPE, help register donors, while facilities and campus police ensure that the blood drive van enters, sets up and exits the campus safely.

“Our blood drives are successful thanks to our students and staff who give blood and campus departments that provide support,” said Hillary Mennella, interim associate dean of Student Health and Wellness. “We are proud that we are making a difference in the lives of people.”

The Platinum Award is given to sponsors that donate more than 400 units of blood.

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Published: April 16, 2015 - Volume 14 - Issue 01