The Optimist Club of Senoia sponsored its first-ever blood drive for the Senoia area on November 28.  The community drive, held at the Senoia United Methodist Church from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., had been targeted by American Red Cross officials to bring in 33 pints of life-saving blood.  The local effort exceeded this goal by bringing in a total of 38 pints. 

 A total of 45 potential donors entered the doors of the church’s Fellowship Hall during the day in an effort to volunteer their blood.  As is normally the case, some of the potential donors were not eligible due to various factors identified by American Red Cross representatives.  Senoia Optimist Club President Hal Sewell stated that “the efforts of all of the ones who gave or even attempted to give were greatly appreciated.”

 Julie Tilson, donor recruitment representative for the American Red Cross, was instrumental in initiating the blood drive for the Senoia area.  Although a much smaller blood drive was held in Senoia over 10 years ago, the community has undoubtedly changed considerably in recent years.  Ms. Tilson encouraged the local Optimist Club to sponsor the event, and she also requested the Senoia United Methodist Church to be the host site.  Dr. Danny Barton, church pastor, said that he was “excited about the role that the Methodist Church could play” in this activity.  

 Volunteers from the Senoia Optimist Club registered each potential donor and served refreshments in the area set aside as the canteen.  In addition to beverages and cookies provided by the American Red Cross, the Optimist volunteers also served hot grilled cheese sandwiches.  All of the items needed to make the sandwiches were donated courtesy of Crook’s Marketplace in Senoia. 

 Donors were eligible to receive a special 2008 Christmas ornament provided by the American Red Cross.  Also, Maguire’s Family and Friends Restaurant in Senoia provided coupons that entitled contributors to any appetizer for only half price.  In addition, the blood drive received publicity from Radio Station 92.5 - The Bear and from many area businesses.

 Included among the donors was Senoia Optimist Carl Powell who was presented a pin by the American Red Cross for donating over 10 gallons of blood over the years.

 Blood can be safely donated every 56 days.  The Senoia Optimist Club and the American Red Cross have already designated February 2, 2009, as the next blood drive for the Senoia area.  The February drive, also to be held at the Senoia United Methodist Church, will be scheduled from 1-6 p.m.  It is anticipated that the later schedule will allow many patrons to donate on their way home from work. 

 Most healthy people age 17 and older or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood.  For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org.

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