Get behind the wheel with Red Cross Racing

Summer is here and the race is on to keep blood and platelet donations available to patients in need. Join the American Red Cross, 3M, Roush Fenway Racing and Greg Biffle – driver of Roush Fenway Racing's No. 16 Ford Fusion - to remind donors to give blood or platelets and help save lives during racing season!

You can participate in the Red Cross Racing rewards program and accrue points to exchange for NASCAR racing gear including t-shirts, hats, even a miniature die-cast Red Cross car! And starting this month you can win a chance to get behind the wheel of your own brand new 2011 Ford Fiesta! Here's how.

Make your appointment today. Or start your own team and help save even more lives! Join the race where everybody wins.

Rock like a VIP

The 2010 Vans Warped Tour concerts are just around the corner! Still need your VIP Voucher? Present to donate blood at upcoming American Red Cross Music Saves Lives blood drives in your area and you can participate in special meet 'n greets with Vans Warped tour bands at the Music Saves Lives booth.

The VIP Voucher, along with a purchased concert ticket, will provide you with special access to the Music Saves Lives concert booth for special band meet and greet sessions at the Vans Warped Tour.

Also, the first 150 people to turn in their VIP Vouchers at the Music Saves Lives concert booth will receive a special wristband that gives them backstage access at the concert.

Join the American Red Cross – Music Saves Lives – The Vans Warped Tour (2010) Facebook group to stay up-to-date on all things that rock.

Follow us on Twitter

The American Red Cross Blood Services in now on Twitter. Follow us for updates on special promotions, inspiring stories and special blood type needs. You can be an advocate for blood and platelet donation by Retweeting our Tweets and letting others know of the lifesaving impact of blood and platelet donation.

Keep your network of friends informed about the ongoing need for blood donations. Share your experiences and urge others to get involved! Check out our Twitter page.

Teen donor doubles gift of life

Donor Tom Delano, blood drive coordinator Maddi Dickey and Red Cross phlebotomist.

High school student Tom Delano donated double red cells for the first time at a recent blood drive coordinated by friend Maddi Dickey. "I know my blood type is important and can help many people," Delano said. "By donating double red cells I could give even more. It was very cool to see the whole process. The fact that my donation counted as two was awesome!" Read more about double red cell donation.

Dickey said she was pleased with the great turnout. "I had a lot of fun!" Check here to see more photos of the drive.

Cruz Roja Americana

The Red Cross Blood Services website now has many materials available in Spanish. Spanish-speaking donors will now have easier access to blood donation information and blood donation opportunities. Visit this link to find out more.