June 01, 2026
By: Kathryn Kuckelman
Become a Blood Donor in Greater Des Moines This Summer
Summer is one of the most critical times for blood donations. With kids out of school and regular routines on hold due to summer travel and activities, blood donations tend to decline during the summer months. But the need doesn’t go away.
The strength of the local blood supply is not just a medical issue, it is a community commitment. In 2025, LifeServe collected more than 143,000 blood products from volunteer blood donors, but that number has declined in recent years — a challenge that affects the entire community.
Every two seconds, someone’s life depends on a blood transfusion — and just one donation can save up to three lives. Cancer patients, trauma victims, premature babies and organ transplant recipients are just some of the patients that rely on a steady supply of blood every single day.
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“Patients do not get a summer break,” said Dr. Alex Smith, LifeServe Blood Center Medical Director. “Giving during the summer months helps prevent blood shortages and ensures that empty shelves do not delay treatment.”
The process is easier than you think. It only takes about an hour, and the actual donation takes just 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll complete a brief health screening before your donation and will spend some time relaxing and enjoying snacks and refreshments after the donation.
Take Part in Blood Donor Days Through the End of June
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This year, one of the ways LifeServe is hoping to encourage more blood donations during the summer months is through Blood Donor Days. In past years, LifeServe has held a one-day Blood Donor Day event, where we would celebrate blood donors with special giveaways and prizes. But this year, that has been extended to the entire month of June.
So what does that mean? Every day during the month of June, anyone who donates blood with LifeServe will receive an exclusive “Neon Vibes and Saving Lives” t-shirt, plus a chance to win summer prize packages, local restaurant and business gift cards and even a chance to win four 4-day passes to Hinterland Music Festival.
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Win four 4-day passes to Hinterland Music Festival!
“An important part of this promotion is targeting young donors, who are one of the most valuable parts of keeping the local blood supply strong,” said LifeServe President/CEO Stacy Sime. “If we can get young donors in the door and give them a positive experience during the donation process, that they will make blood donation a life-long habit.”
There is no substitute for human blood. The only way to make sure local patients have access to the blood products they need is through blood donation. You can make a difference in the lives of your friends, family and neighbors by donating with LifeServe.
Schedule your lifesaving appointment today by calling LifeServe Blood Center at (800) 287-4903 or by going to lifeservebloodcenter.org.
LifeServe is always looking for local businesses and organizations to partner with to host blood drives. If you’re interested in being a leader in your community by hosting with us, call us at (800) 287-4903.
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Kathryn Kuckelman
Kathryn Kuckelman is the Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator for LifeServe Blood Center.