American Red Cross Nashville Coordinator Chapter 7

Everyone deserves
a pat on the back (1 week after)

Post results as soon as possible.
As soon as possible after the drive, make the results public so everyone knows that their hard work paid off. If you reached your goal, it's worth a special celebration. Regardless of the amount collected, the people in your organization deserve thanks. Consider recognizing an increase in collections, participation, or first-time donors.

Thank your donors.
Just as when you promoted the drive, a thank-you note, memo, or e-mail note from the senior leadership in your organization will make everybody feel great about having participated (see Chapter 9 for sample). You can also list the results in a newsletter or publicize them in other ways. Take pictures and post them on a bulletin board. Your Red Cross representative can even help you establish an awards program to acknowledge the efforts of these heroic donors on a regular basis.

Thank your team.
Thanks should also go out to the members of your team who worked so hard to make the drive a success. A word from senior leadership will let them know that their efforts were appreciated. And a personal word from you to your team members is in order as well. You might try to have a team breakfast or event to celebrate. Together, you saved lives.

By acknowledging everyone who helped, you'll be building a good foundation for the next drive. Whether it is in two months or in six months, if the blood drive is remembered as a good experience, people will be more likely to participate again.