Our Blood Institute Launches Donor Championship with Incentives

Our Blood Institute (OBI) is launching a donor campaign throughout February and March, encouraging community members to donate blood and support local hospitals. The initiative aims to bolster blood supplies, which often decline during late winter and early spring, while recognizing the vital role of blood donors.

Donor Incentives

Donors who participate in the blood drive at Magazine High School on Wednesday, March 11, will receive a limited-edition, basketball-themed T-shirt.

In Arkansas, donors will receive additional incentives: a free ticket to the Museum of Discovery and a free Bundtlet from Nothing Bundt Cakes.

The Importance of Blood Donation

Blood is essential for various medical needs, including trauma care, cancer treatments, surgeries, and emergency situations. According to OBI, one donation can save up to three lives.

Who Can Donate?

Healthy individuals aged 16 and older are eligible to donate blood. Specific weight requirements apply based on age:

• 16-year-olds: Must weigh at least 125 pounds and have signed parental permission.
• 17-year-olds: Must weigh at least 125 pounds.
• 18+: Must weigh at least 110 pounds.

A photo ID is required for all donors.

How to Donate

Appointments can be scheduled online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Champion Donors

“Donors are truly our champions,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and CEO of Our Blood Institute. “They show up day after day to help patients win their toughest battles. This campaign is our way of celebrating the teamwork, commitment and heart it takes to keep hospitals supplied with lifesaving blood.”

High School Blood Drive Championship

Our Blood Institute also recognizes high schools for their blood donation efforts. As of August 4, 2025, leaders in each class are:

Oklahoma Leaders

• Class A: Burns Flat-Dill City High School — 264
• Class B: Blair High School — 134
• Class 2A: Silo High School — 161
• Class 3A: Heavener High School — 366
• Class 4A: Cleveland High School — 176
• Class 5A: Durant High School — 501
• Class 6A: Yukon High School — 359

Texas Leaders

• Class A: Bryson ISD — 194
• Class 2A: Seymour High School — 110
• Class 3A: Vernon High School — 134
• Class 4A: Bo… (data incomplete in source)