Media contact: Lily McCormick
Regional Communications Manager
Lily.mccormick@redcross.org | 385-584-7610
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (April. 15, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is proud to honor Emily Arvizo, a South Summit High School student, for her remarkable efforts to save lives through the Leaders Save Lives program. Emily’s successful hosting of a holiday-season blood drive earned her a $1,000 scholarship and made a life-changing impact on patients in critical need.
Emily’s involvement in blood drives began with the Interact Club at her high school. Recognizing a gap in local blood drives during winter break, her club advisor encouraged her to take the initiative and host her own event through the Leaders Save Lives program.
The program empowers high school and college students to make a difference by organizing blood drives during school breaks. It offers students the chance to save lives, gain leadership experience, and earn scholarships. Emily’s determination brought her community together, and her efforts resulted in the collection of over 28 pints of blood.
“Throughout my experience, I saw how many people in my small community were interested in giving blood or had already donated before,” Emily shared. “I also realized that the lack of nearby blood drives prevents people from donating, even though they’re willing to help.”
Leaders Save Lives Program and Scholarship Opportunities
The Leaders Save Lives program encourages students to host blood drives during critical collection periods, such as school holidays, when blood donations are urgently needed. Participants earn volunteer hours, leadership skills, and the opportunity to win gift cards or scholarships by collecting at least 25 pints of blood. Learn more at redcrossblood.org/LeadersSaveLives.
“Emily’s dedication highlights the incredible potential of young people to rally their communities for a lifesaving cause,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “Her story serves as an inspiration, and we hope it motivates other students to host blood drives and encourages the community to support their efforts by donating. Every contribution counts and can save lives.”
Upcoming Leaders Save Lives Blood Drives
The Red Cross invites the community to support student-led drives this summer from Memorial Day to Labor Day. To find information about these blood drives and other ones happening in your area, visit redcross.org/Give-Blood.
Make a Difference This Spring
Donors can schedule appointments through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/Give-Blood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All donors who give blood in April will be automatically entered to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. Additionally, those who donate between April 1-13, 2025, will receive a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Donors giving between April 14-30, 2025, will receive an exclusive Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last. For details on these offers, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Hope.
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.
