AM25-MN-05-L - Closing the Divide: Pathways to Engaging Underrepresented Communities in Blood Donation

Proposed Session Description: This session will explore the multifaceted challenges that underrepresented communities face in accessing and participating in blood donation. From historical mistrust and misinformation to cultural, linguistic and socioeconomic barriers, these obstacles continue to impact donor engagement and eligibility. The speakers will explore the challenges affecting blood donor eligibility such as low hemoglobin levels and travel history that may affect access to donation.
Leaders in Transfusion Medicine and donor recruitment will share insights on how strategic partnerships, culturally relevant education, and sustained investment with trusted community organizations can drive meaningful change. This session will highlight real-world approaches from two major blood collectors:
Participants will explore Vitalant’s innovative, community-driven strategies aimed at engaging diverse donor populations. These include the use of “community speak,” an approach that involves culturally tailored messaging delivered by “ambassadors” who share their stories. This strategy is supported by the development of customized outreach materials, such as blood drive pitches and testimonial videos that resonate with underrepresented groups. The session will highlight both the challenges encountered and the lessons learned, while also showcasing successful collaborations, such as partnerships with Sickle Cell Disease Centers. Emphasis will be placed on raising awareness and the vital role Black donors play in improving health outcomes for patients with sickle cell disease. The importance of organizing blood drives at racially diverse locations such as mosques and community centers and partnering with trusted Black organizations will be reinforced as key components in creating inclusive and empowering donation experiences.
The American Red Cross Sickle Cell Initiative, launched in January 2021, which has increased the supply of CEK-, HgbS- blood units from Black or African American donors by 50%. Presenters will share lessons learned, effective outreach methods, and ongoing challenges in meeting the transfusion needs of patients with sickle cell disease. Attendees will gain practical tools and proven strategies to enhance donor diversity, build trust, and meet patient needs across the healthcare spectrum