GIVING BLOOD FOR CHATHAM
When tragedy strikes close to home, it leaves us asking the same question: How can I help?
For Lakeisha Purchase, the tragedy last year in Chatham was a chance for her to help in a couple of ways.
The Springfield Ward 5 Alderwoman shares how she chose to take action by giving blood for the very first time and why she hopes others will do the same.
Alderwoman Purchase is also a board member for Medics First, and she took time to highlight the lifesaving work they do every day in our communities. She reminds us that even when we feel powerless, one simple choice can still make a real impact.
Special thanks to Medics First for partnering with us and for all they do to help save lives.
#MLKDAY OF SERVICE
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is 'What are you doing for others?'"
This week, we have the chance to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy the best way we know how -- by serving others. Across our region, we partnered for MLK Day of Service blood drives to turn a day of remembrance into a day of action.
At the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield, Illinois, donors stepped up to help keep blood on the shelves for local hospitals.
At SSM St. Mary's Hospital in Richmond Heights, Missouri, teams and community members made time to give back in a place where caring for others is already part of the mission.
At Our Lady Queen of Peace School and Church in Belleville, Illinois, the drive brought neighbors together with one shared purpose, helping patients they may never meet.
And in Decatur, Terrence “TAT” Taylor did more than host an in-center drive. He rolled up his own sleeve and donated, using his voice and his action to inspire service for life.
CELEBRATING MIKE GARDNER
Two decades of volunteering with us is worth celebrating loud.
On Tuesday, our Burlington team surprised Mike Gardner with a special party to recognize 20 years of service as a volunteer registration clerk, sealer, and driver. Mike has shown up with a steady heart, a reliable schedule, and a willingness to do the behind the scenes work that keeps everything moving.
His family joined the celebration, which included sweet treats from our own Becky Parker. It was a well-deserved moment of appreciation for someone who has helped make a difference in countless lives, one trip at a time.
ASSOCIATE BOARDS IN ACTION
Last Friday, Kristin Tobias and Coreyonna Johnson helped coordinate a successful blood drive at Springfield Clinic on Carpenter in Springfield. It was a great example of what it looks like when community leaders step up, bring people together, and help keep blood on the shelves for local patients.