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Organize A Workplace Blood Drive

Nov 6, 2020 | Uncategorized

January is the American Red Cross’ National Blood Donor Month. Celebrate by hosting a blood drive for your employees! After the holiday season of spending, it feels good to give back something at no cost that can truly save a life in your community. Everyone has blood to spare, yet there is still not enough to go around for those in need!

Blood is typically in short supply in the winter following the holiday season. According to the Red Cross, “National Blood Donor Month has been observed in January since 1970, with the goal of increasing blood and platelet donations during winter – one of the most difficult times of year to collect enough blood products to meet patient needs.”

Inclement winter weather often results in canceled blood drives. Seasonal illnesses like the flu also play a part in some donors becoming temporarily unable to donate. Replenish your local blood bank with your employees’ help! Blood drives are inexpensive, efficient and they save lives. They are also good for boosting employee morale.

SHRM published some tips on how to host a successful blood drive:

Contact the Red Cross or a local blood bank organization.

Essentially, after contacting the organization, the Red Cross or your local blood bank will “take it from there.” They’ll ask some questions about the work site, the number of employees the company anticipates will volunteer to donate, the company’s location, and some other questions to determine whether certain minimum requirements can be met. If the company meets these requirements, a representative will help to establish a mutual goal for the drive.

Determine a date, time and place for the blood drive.

Whether it’s setting up in a large room in your facility or allowing the “Bloodmobiles” to set up in your parking lot, there is always a way to accommodate space for your blood drive. Pick a date and time that would be convenient for most members of your organization.

Promote the blood drive internally through email, a company newsletter and word-of-mouth.

Get the word out to your employees about the blood drive the same way you share other news. Try posting a flyer on the workplace news board, sending it out through a company-wide email, or including a blurb about it in the company newsletter. Show your support of the blood drive through the leadership team by planning to participate yourself.

Consider providing employee donors with an appreciation gift

Provide an incentive to your employees to encourage giving back and participation. Sometimes it takes a little push to interrupt one’s work day for charity. Consider providing a T-Shirt, movie ticket or gift certificate to thank your employees for participating.

Turn it into friendly competition!

Some companies turn blood drives into a friendly competition between departments. Treat whichever department who has the most people participate in the blood drive to a catered lunch. This will build camaraderie within departments and will increase participation in the blood drive.

Consider hosting a blood drive multiple times a year. Blood can safely be donated every 56 days. Platelets can be given every seven days (up to 24 times a year). Also, your employees will enjoy the free juice and cookies that go along with blood donations!

From coffee to soda to energy drinks, caffeine is a part of daily life for many of us. And while it is naturally occurring, overconsumption can cause health problems such as increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, anxiety, headaches, and insomnia. For this blog, we sat down with Susie Roberts, a Registered Dietitian to discuss all things caffeine—why it’s such a big part of our lives, how much of it is in the food items many people enjoy regularly, and how much is too much. We’ll also talk about current trends and tips on how to boost your energy naturally so you can stop relying on caffeine to keep you energized throughout the day.

Q: Just this morning, I heard someone say “I’m not caffeinated enough for this day!” It really is such a big part of our daily lives. Why do you think that is?
A: It’s not surprising at all to hear that! About 90% of American adults consume caffeine daily. People are looking for ways to boost their energy and increase alertness and caffeine is readily available and socially acceptable.

Q: So, what exactly is caffeine, and how does it work?
A: Caffeine is a natural stimulant that affects the central nervous system. After consumption, it’s absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it blocks the effects of adenosine—a chemical that promotes sleep. This interference helps you feel more alert and awake.

Caffeine typically reaches your brain within 15 minutes, peaks in the bloodstream at 30 to 120 minutes, and has a half-life of 3 to 7 hours.

Q: Everyone knows that coffee and many soft drinks contain caffeine. But where else can it be found? If we are consuming these beverages and other items, how can we know the amount of caffeine we are getting?
A: Energy drinks have become very popular—especially among young adults. These contain not only caffeine, but may also have added sugars, so it’s a double whammy. Chocolate and many varieties of tea also contain caffeine. You may also want to check out any nutrition supplements or medications you are taking. And, many people may not realize it, but even decaf coffee contains a certain amount of caffeine.

How Much Caffeine Am I Really Getting

Q: How much is too much when it comes to caffeine?
A: For most healthy adults, the FDA says up to 400 mg per day is safe. That’s about 4 cups of coffee. But you need to remember, that’s based on an 8 oz cup. Many people order an extra-large coffee, so you need to be aware of exactly how much you are taking in. Each individual reacts differently to caffeine based on their genetics, medications, and sleep habits.

How Much Is Too Much? Make Sure You Know Your Limits.

Q: What are the current trends in caffeine consumption?
A: As I mentioned before, energy drinks are increasing in popularity. They haven’t taken over coffee in the top spot, but Americans spent $19.2 billion on them in 2023 and that’s expected to rise to $33 billion by 2030. Coffee remains at the top, accounting for 69% of total caffeine intake, an increase of 15% in the last decade. And while the number of tea drinkers has dropped by 50%, those who drink it are consuming more.

Current Caffeine Consumption Trends.

Q: How can I be more aware about the amount of caffeine I’m getting?
A: Mindful consumption of caffeine is being intentional about what, when, and how much you consume. Track your intake and pay attention to any potential unwanted side effects like jitters or difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep. Are you sleeping 6-8 hours a night and waking refreshed? If not, consider a “hard stop” 10 hours before your bedtime. Remember, that cup of coffee you had at 8 am can potentially still be in your system at 5 pm, so it’s important to time it right. And finally, if you decide you want to reduce your caffeine consumption, do it slowly to minimize any withdrawal symptoms such as headaches.

Be Mindful of Your Caffeine Consumption.

Q: Sometimes though, you need extra energy when you hit that afternoon slump. Can you suggest any alternative ways to get that boost and avoid turning to caffeine?
A: There are a few simple ways you can get that energy boost. First, make sure you are hydrated. Water supports joint health, oxygen delivery, temperature regulation, skin health, and more. You also want to move—even a short walk or stretch break can help. Make sure your meals are balanced with a protein and complex carbs. And most importantly, rest and recover. Sometimes rest—not more coffee—is what your body needs.

How Can I Boost My Energy Naturally.

Q: So, what are your final thoughts on caffeine?
A:  Caffeine can be part of a healthy lifestyle and may even offer some health benefits—but it’s all about balance and awareness. If you’re reaching for that third cup of coffee at 3 pm, pause and ask: Am I actually tired, hungry, or just in a habit? And then give one of the things we talked about a try, to get that energy boost naturally and see if that caffeine craving goes away.

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