There will be a blood drive on Friday January 9th, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Weinstein JCC [directions to 5403 Monument Avenue, Richmond]. In addition to supporting Callen, this blood drive also benefits Kevin Hayden, who was recently diagnosed with leukemia.

You can schedule your appointment to come and help save lives by going online to the Red Cross website and entering the sponsor code: JCC in the upper right hand corner of the website.

What? You need a better reason than saving lives to donate blood? Read on to find out what else you get.

Saving lives not enough? Well what if I told you that a free t-shirt was included. That's correct, a limited edition t-shirt designed by renowned designer Olivia Tyson, whose work can be found prominently displayed on refrigerators around the world.

Still not ready to hit the donate button? Well how about this, not only will you be saving lives, receiving a free t-shirt ... if you donate now you will also receive a $5 gift card to use at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery. Give a pint, possibly get a pint with your gift card.

Hopefully, that's more than enough reasons for you to consider donating blood. But if you need one more reason ... you'll still get a free cookie. That's right free, as in cookie.

Why Donate Blood?

You don’t need a special reason to give blood. You just need your own reason.

Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend. Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood some day. Some believe it is the right thing we do.

Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is important for a healthy and reliable blood supply. And you’ll feel good knowing you've helped change a life.

Some Health Benefits

You will receive a mini physical to check your:

• Pulse
• Blood pressure
• Body temperature
• Hemoglobin

What Can You Expect

Come prepared.

• Have a light meal and plenty to drink.
• Bring your donor card, driver's license or two other forms of identification.
• Bring the names of medications you are taking.

The Actual Donation Process

1. Registration. The Red Cross staff and volunteers will sign you in and go over basic eligibility and donation information. You will read information about donating blood, and will be asked to show a donor card, driver's license, or other form(s) of ID.
2. Mini-physical. You will answer some questions during a private and confidential interview about your health history and places you have traveled. We will check your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level present in a sample of blood.
3. The Donation. The actual donation takes about 8-10 minutes, during which you will be seated comfortably. The process is safe and sterile. Red Cross staff and volunteers will be available if you have any questions.
4. Refreshment. After donating, you should have a snack and something to drink in the refreshments area. You can leave the site after 10-15 minutes and continue with your normal daily activities. Enjoy the feeling of accomplishment knowing that you have helped save lives.