Published on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 in Blog
This week, our community was shaken by a tragic vehicle collision into the YNOT Outdoors After School Center in Chatham, Illinois. In the hours that followed, hospitals caring for any potential victims relied on the blood supply already on-the-shelf, made possible by the generous donations made by donors committed to donating regularly.
"Sudden, tragic events like this remind us of the importance of maintaining a strong blood supply at all times," said Jim Watts, Manager of Donor and Government Relations. "Thanks to the generosity of blood donors, the hospitals caring for the injured had the blood they needed, already on the shelves, ready to help, if needed. That is why blood donation is important every day."
The Chatham community poured out support for those affected. Initially occupying every donation slot at our Springfield donor center from Tuesday through Sunday. This increase in traffic has resulted in an additional donation bus being added to the Springfield Donor Center Site to meet the demand of the community working to take care of their own.
On Tuesday alone, we saw a spike in donations at our Springfield Center. What is typically 20-30 donations on a Tuesday, turned into 125 donations collected. We could not be more thankful for the donors springing to action to make an impact and save lives. We could not be more proud to be part of this community so willing to take action. Click here to learn more about ways to get involved.
Good Giving and YNOT Outdoors
One of the ways we can do even more for our community is through our Good Giving Program. Through this program, donors have the option to make a financial contribution to YNOT Outdoors whenever they give blood. After each donation, you’ll receive an email with instructions for ordering a “thank you” gift—which you can apply as a donation to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. YNOT Outdoors is one of the featured organizations. The more frequently you donate, the larger the contribution ImpactLife makes on your behalf.
Blood Donor Stories for Chatham
An Inspiring Community Turnout
Every donation you make today is an investment in tomorrow’s preparedness. To those who give and those who came out to support the community, we want to say thank you and encourage you to continue coming out so that we can stay prepared always. By giving regularly, you help keep our shelves stocked and our community safe.
Make your next appointment today and make a plan to give again. Together, we’ll keep lifesaving blood on the shelf and hope within reach.