Boy Scouts Host Blood Donation Competition

Monday, February 27, 2017

The Cherokee Area Council, Boy Scouts of America is hosting a friendly competition throughout the month of March amongst regional troops to give back and donate blood at Blood Assurance, the non-profit blood donor center servicing more than 50 counties across a five-state region. The troop that brings in the most blood donors will receive a celebratory pizza party. As Blood Assurance's March #BAChampion partner, the Cherokee Area Council, Boy Scouts of America is striving to ensure that the blood supply remains sufficient to service local hospital patients who need blood every day.

"The Cherokee Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America is excited to be the March #BAChampion sponsor," said Scott Fosse, Scout Executive for the Cherokee Area Council, Boy Scouts of America.

"The Boy Scouts know the importance of 'Being Prepared' and are proud to be a part of ensuring that Blood Assurance is 'Always Prepared' with supplies for those who need blood in our community."

With a motto of "Be Prepared," the Cherokee Area Council, Boy Scouts of America understands the importance of making a blood donation to ensure that Blood Assurance has blood and blood products readily available to service more than 75 healthcare facilities across Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, Alabama and North Carolina. As a thank you for donating blood in March, all donors will receive an "Always Be Prepared" Boy Scout themed t-shirt and be entered to win a camping supply package that includes a sleeping bag, tent and grill.

"You don't have to be a Scout to donate during Scout month. We invite all residents to help us maintain a sufficient blood supply to ensure the needs of our local healthcare partners are met," said Jay Baumgardner, executive director of marketing and community relations for Blood Assurance. "Whether it's an immediate tragedy or a daily transfusion, people in our community require blood and blood products each and every day, and we rely on volunteer blood donors to help us meet these needs."

The Cherokee Area Council, Boy Scouts of America is headquartered in Chattanooga and serves 6,000 youth with the help of more than 1,700 volunteers across Southeast Tennessee and Northwest Georgia. Throughout the years, Blood Assurance and the Boy Scouts have partnered to host numerous blood drives.

To be eligible to donate blood, you must be at least 18 years old (17 and 16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good health. Donors are asked to drink plenty of fluids- avoiding caffeine-and eat a meal that is rich in iron prior to donating. Blood donors are not required to make an appointment prior to donating.

If you would like to learn more about your company becoming a #BAChampion, please contact the Blood Assurance Marketing Department at (423)-752-5926