Minnesota West Peace Officer program students host blood drive

Students in the Minnesota West Community & Technical College Peace Officer Program recently hosted a successful American Red Cross Blood Drive on the Worthington campus.

Led by Peace Officer Program Coordinator Gina DeCesare, students stepped into the role of Blood Donor Ambassadors, helping welcome donors, assist with check-in, answer questions and create a positive experience for community members who chose to donate blood.

A Minnesota West press release said the event exceeded expectations, collecting 41 lifesaving units of blood and welcoming 16 first-time donors. The drive not only surpassed its goal of 30 units but also achieved strong Power Red donations and excellent donor diversity results, helping ensure that patients in need have access to critical blood products.

In addition to organizing and running the event, several Peace Officer students donated blood, leading and helping save lives through their service. The press release adds that students took their service beyond campus by engaging with the local community, distributing information and encouraging residents to participate in the blood drive, helping contribute to the event's record-breaking success.

Blood Donor Ambassadors work directly with blood donors by greeting them, assisting with registration, and providing support throughout the donation process. The role is one of many volunteer opportunities available through the American Red Cross, allowing individuals to serve their communities while helping save lives.

The success of the drive also earned Minnesota West’s Worthington Campus bragging rights in a friendly competition with the college’s Canby Campus. Worthington exceeded its collection goal and secured the challenge victory.

The event highlights the service-minded leadership encouraged within Minnesota West’s Peace Officer Program. Students gain hands-on experiences that extend beyond the classroom and reinforce the importance of community engagement, public service, and helping others in times of need.