Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Aug. 31, 2023) — UNLV Athletics teamed up with the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada today for a successful blood drive to mark the opening of the first season under the leadership of new Head Football Coach Barry Odom. The drive had overwhelming support from the UNLV community with every blood donation appointment filled.
“We're excited about our partnership with the Red Cross for this blood drive,” Coach Odom said. “It's an opportunity for our department and our fans to come together and make a big impact on the community by donating blood and helping those in need. The Red Cross does very important work and we're honored to be able to help contribute to their mission. We are also looking forward to seeing the Rebel faithful along with new fans as we put on a great show for them at Allegiant Stadium Sept. 2.”
The UNLV Athletics blood drive comes at a crucial moment when the nationwide blood supply continues to decline. This decline has been worsened by a summer-long donation slump and the cancellation of numerous blood drives due to 15 catastrophic disasters this year. "Dozens of blood drives were canceled today alone due to Hurricane Idalia," said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter. "Those of us living in areas like Southern Nevada, which do not typically experience weather-related disasters, can be a lifeline to others by donating blood."
UNLV vs. Bryant Bulldogs
Donors who participated in the blood drive at the Thomas & Mack Center today received two complimentary tickets to the Sept. 2 game against the Bryant University Bulldogs, marking Coach Odom's debut. "Giving back to the community has always been a core value of UNLV Athletics, and this collaboration perfectly aligns with our mission to make a positive difference," said UNLV Director of Athletics Erick Harper. “We were also pleased to offer two free tickets to anyone who donated blood today at the UNLV blood drive, allowing them to attend our thrilling home football opener at Allegiant Stadium.”
The Red Cross plays a vital role in sustaining the country's blood supply, contributing about 40% of all collected blood. To meet the needs of patients undergoing medical procedures and treatments at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must collect 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations every single day. Donors can find a convenient blood drive and make an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Appreciation for donors
As appreciation for their commitment to ensuring a stable blood supply, all who come to donate blood, platelets or plasma September 1-18 will receive a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last. Additionally, donors during the month of September will receive an email coupon for a complimentary haircut from Sport Clips. Details are available at rcblood.org/racetogive.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.