August 27, 2004

Boise State Partners with Idaho in "Blood Match" For Red Cross

Boise State University and the University of Idaho are partnering with the American Red Cross to see how much blood students, faculty, staff and alumni can add to the national blood supply in the next three months. Organizers hope to corral the traditional rivalry between the two schools, highlighted by the upcoming football game on Sept. 4 at Bronco Stadium, for the benefit of others. Someone in Idaho needs blood every 20 minutes; nationwide that number drops to every two seconds. Boise State and Idaho alumni stretch from coast to coast and organizers hope this partnership will raise awareness about the need for blood donations not just for the rest of this year, but for life. Participants are asked to pledge now as a show of support to those who need the lifesaving gift that only volunteer blood donors can provide. Pledges will be totaled before Sept. 4 and the results of this collaborative effort to help the Red Cross will be shared during the game. To make a pledge to give blood for Boise State between now and the end of this year, go to http://lewisandclark.redcross.org/bsu.htm. To make an appointment to give blood or to find a blood donor center near you, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE for donor center locations and hours. Boise State’s Volunteer Services Board also schedules blood drives on campus throughout the year. Call 426-4240 for the fall schedule. After giving blood, volunteers are asked to record the donation at http://lewisandclark.redcross.org/bsuform.htm . -30- Media Contact Kathleen Craven communications and marketing 208 426-3275