LindaP

Hi Bryan, Giving out gallon pins is one possible option. If your center continues to grow, it might be easier to maintain the inventory of pins; however, using the gifts as an incentive might be fun for donors because they will get something different at each milestone donation and not just another pin. If you would like to discuss ordering pins and/or various gifts, please feel free to contact our rep. She is very good with ideas, how best to order and has always provided us with good, honest advice and service. I would suggest you call her because it is always easier to talk with someone when you are dealing with a lot of details. Joanne Crispin can be reached at 781-453-0077 or jcrispin@sales.geiger.com.

Hello. Has anyone used the services of a direct mail company to increase mobile drive sponsors? We'd appreciate your comments and suggestions. --LindaP.

Hi Lynn, Food works at our donor center, especially sweets - apple pie al a mode, ice cream parties, specialties from well known area bakeries. Another idea is a dinner-for-2 raffle donated by a local 4 star restaurant. Also, have you considered providing massages? We have worked with a couple of local groups that volunteered 10-15 minute massages for donors and staff as a community service. You should have seen the smiles on our donors' faces as they left the donor center. Hope this is of some help. --LindaP.

Hello Everyone, I've just joined the forum and wish all blood bankers ample blood products in every blood bank. We are always looking for new, interesting and successful ways of convincing volunteers (including our own blood bankers) to visit the Donor Center or sponsors to schedule blood drives. During the first half of February, we are raffling a "sweet heart" package of a dozen red roses, a box of chocolates and dinner for 2 at a local upscale restaurant. During the latter half, we will be celebrating our 1st "Winter Festival" by offering special treats each day, from warm apple pie to waffles with real, warm maple syrup. We'll end our "festival" with a raffle package of a sleigh ride and lunch for 2 at a popular resort in northern New Hampshire. We're still thinking about March activities. Is anyone doing something inovative for March?