The inaugural Omega Psi Phi, Psi Iota Chapter Blood Drive, in honor of Dr. Charles Drew, brought in a strong 20 units of blood, including 11 first-time donors.
“It was important for us to do this mobile blood drive to help with the national blood shortage and as an annual requirement of our organization,” said Terence Gavin, who coordinated the drive for his fraternity. “The turnout was good, and it was definitely a good start for our first drive.
The drive was held Aug. 3 in Dover. Besides the number of first-time donors, many who donated hadn’t made a donation in several years.
“When I heard the chapter was doing this drive I wanted to make sure I could donate this time,” said Temple Jefferson, who donated double red cells. “The last time I tried, my blood pressure was too high.”
First-time donors Devon Curry and Khalil Muhammad were both excited to donate.
“I’m healthy, so I thought why not help others,” Curry said.
“I was a little nervous,” Muhammad said. “But it was a good experience and it put my mind at ease.”
Gavin said everyone had a very positive experience.
“My fraternity brothers were all pleased with the care they received,” he said. “They had nothing but good comments about their experience.”
With one successful drive in the books, Gavin intends to start hosting two drives per year.
The chapter follows the mandate set nationally by Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. to hold blood drives in honor of Dr. Charles R. Drew, who belonged to the prestigious fraternity.