For 17-year-old Elaina Edwards, organizing blood drives is more than just a volunteer activity — it’s a passion rooted in family.

Now a senior at Helena Capital High School, Elaina has hosted Red Cross blood drives since before she was eligible to donate herself.

“I just did my fifth drive, and it was really exciting,” she said.

Elaina’s dedication to blood donation began at home. Her grandmother, Nona Keeler, works for the Red Cross, coordinating blood drives throughout the Helena and Butte areas. Growing up, Elaina gained a firsthand understanding of just how vital blood donation is.

“Personally, I’m only at two units (donated) so far,” she said, adding that she hopes her veins will cooperate and boost her total, perhaps during her sixth drive scheduled for Dec. 30 at the Helena Donor Center.

Recruiting donors comes naturally to the high schooler, who takes a hands-on approach to spreading the word.

“Most of my recruiting is making personal calls. I say, ‘Hey, I have a drive coming up and it would mean a lot if you could come support our efforts.’

“And people actively realize that this is actually saving lives.”

Her most recent drive in July drive collected 36 units and welcomed three first-time donors.

Looking ahead, Elaina is preparing for a future in health care. While her plans are still taking shape, she’s leaning toward nursing and hopes to work as a phlebotomist while attending college, likely somewhere in Montana.

“I’m not entirely sure yet. But I do want to find something in the medical field -- probably nursing of some sort,” she said. “And I do want to get a job as a phlebotomist while I’m in school so I can find work wherever I go.”

Even with her packed schedule — she work part time as a teller at Rocky Mountain Credit Union, participates in HOSA and German Club and practices Irish dancing — Elaina makes time for what matters most to her.

“I would definitely like to continue hosting (blood drives),” she said. “It gives so many people an opportunity to find the time. People are so busy. It’s like with my schedule being so hectic, organizing a drive gives me a time to make sure I donate on a regular basis.”