Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (March 22, 2026) — Nearly a year after the American Red Cross joined forces with Metallica and its foundation, All Within My Hands, Southern Nevada donors helped contribute to a nationwide effort that collected more than 25,000 blood donations.
The partnership with the band and its fans began in April 2025 with blood drives at select stops during the U.S. leg of the M72 Tour. It later expanded beyond concert venues, giving people in Southern Nevada and across the country the chance to take part through local Red Cross blood drives and donation centers. During the campaign, many donors received an exclusive Metallica x Red Cross T-shirt. The effort also attracted new donors, with 16% giving blood for the first time.
“A hallmark mission of the All Within My Hands Foundation is to support critical care and communities, encouraging fans and friends to take action,” said Lars Ulrich, founding member of Metallica. “We’re thrilled the Metallica Family recognizes the importance of blood donation and didn’t hesitate to rally behind this lifesaving effort. Their enthusiasm has made a real difference, and we’re honored to stand alongside them.”
New Donors Helped Drive the Campaign
An important outcome of the partnership was strong participation from first-time and younger donors. Nationally, 16% of people who donated through the campaign gave blood for the first time, and nearly half of those first-time donors were between 16 and 24 years old. First-time donors play an important role in helping maintain a stable blood supply.
Gen Z has emerged as the fastest-growing group of blood donors and volunteers, with new American Red Cross data showing they make up 42% of new volunteers. Driven by student-led clubs, high school drives and viral campaigns like the Red Cross x Metallica partnership, Gen Z donors are becoming increasingly important to addressing blood shortages.
“We are grateful for the partnership with Metallica that really energized teens and young adults to donate blood for the first time,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “It’s encouraging to see younger donors getting involved and giving blood for the first time.”
How to Donate Blood
Blood donation appointments can be made through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). In March 2026, the Red Cross is providing free A1C testing on successful blood, platelet and plasma donations. Those who come to give March 1-31, 2026, will also receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/March.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org or follow us on social media.
