Versiti Blood Center of Illinois is excited to once again partner with the Chicago Automobile Trade Association to host the 24th Annual Dennis Buckley Memorial Blood Drive Feb. 12 – 21 at the Chicago Auto Show. One of Versiti’s largest community blood drives in the state, the organization hopes to collect more than 1,800 units of lifesaving blood to help Illinoisans in need.
For many years, Dennis Buckley helped produce the auto show and played an integral part in getting the blood drive started at the show. After his 2004 passing from cancer, the drive was named in his honor. Versiti Blood Center of Illinois will wheel in its 40-foot mobile coach bus as the backdrop for the ten-day drive on the show floor.
As a token of gratitude, all attempting donors will receive an exclusive, Versiti and Chicago Auto Show t-shirt.
WHEN: Feb. 12 – 20 from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
WHERE: McCormick Place
2301 S. King Drive, Chicago
BOOTH# SH190
“We are thrilled to once again partner with the Chicago Auto Show and honored to pay tribute to Dennis Buckley and his legacy of giving back,” said Amy Smith, area vice president and director of center recruitment, Versiti. “Blood supplies nationwide are at historically low levels, and the auto show is a great opportunity for donors to check out the newest and greatest vehicles while also giving the gift of lifesaving blood.”
"I know Dennis would be so proud this blood drive is helping when it's needed most," said Dave Sloan, general manager of the Chicago Auto Show. "That's just like Dennis, showing up out of nowhere exactly when you need a hand."
To make an appointment, call 1-800-786-4483 or visit versiti.org.
Anyone 17 or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood. Parental consent is required for 16-year-olds to donate. Appointments are preferred to ensure a quick and convenient donation, but walk-in donors are also welcome. The entire process takes about an hour. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date.
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About Versiti Blood Center of Illinois
Versiti Blood Center of Illinois is a not-for-profit organization headquartered in Aurora, IL., that specializes in blood products and services and provides expert medical and technical support. Founded in 1943, it is the oldest blood center in Illinois and serves patients at 86 hospitals in Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. It operates 12 donor centers and conducts nearly 2,200 blood drives annually at area hospitals, churches, businesses, schools and community centers. To learn more, visit versiti.org.
About The Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904 and located in Oakbrook Terrace, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is comprised of more than 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world-famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information, please visit CATA.info.