By Kathy Stewart
South Carolina State University (SCSU) sophomore Ty Boston is no stranger to the American Red Cross, having worked with the organization since high school. Heâs now a part of the American Red Cross HBCU Ambassador Program, a signature Biomedical Services youth engagement program that engages college students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Part of these HBCU Blood Ambassadorsâ role is to inspire a new generation of Red Cross volunteers and leaders and Improve health outcomes of diverse populations in need of blood transfusions.
Ty worked to coordinate and promote SCSU’s blood drive by talking with other blood ambassadors, working with faculty members, securing a location then working with public relations on flyers and social posts. He also distributed flyers around the campus including academic buildings, the dorms and dining halls.
He was pleased with the results: âWe had a lot of walk-ins,â said Ty. Noting that almost 40% were first-time donors. âWith the help of the program director, the students and the people from Orangeburg, we beat our goal of 29 pints; we got 48 instead.â
Ty is already looking ahead to the next blood drive scheduled for April and is hopeful for an even bigger turnout.
He understands the need for blood donations, he has a family member who suffers from sickle cell disease.
âWhen I think of sickle cell, I think of those who actually have sickle cell and need help with it. This made me think of her. If I can help her, I can help others.â
One in 3 African American blood donors is a match for someone with sickle cell disease. Ty understands the need to educate fellow students on the importance of donation within the Black community to support sickle cell patients.
âOur sickle cell coordinator has been amazing, communicating with us about sickle cell and the importance of donating to help those with sickle cell,â said Ty.
Before this blood drive, Ty also received something unexpected. âI recently got a call from one of my donors who had given blood [to his cousin]. “It was very heart-warming. I started to tear up.â
South Carolina schools are making an impact, with Allen University, Claflin University and SCSU all participating in the Red Cross HBCU Ambassador Program.
Ty values his time as an HBCU Ambassador, saying, âBeing an ambassador is one of the great things that happened to me. Iâm trying to educate others on the importance of donating blood and the importance of giving back.â
Blood donations are crucial year-round, as the American Red Cross must collect enough blood every day to meet the needs of those receiving treatment for sickle cell and cancer as well as for accident and burn victims and those requiring surgery.
While 62% of the population is eligible, only 3% actually donate. With the help of the HBCU Ambassador program, donation is ongoing.
âIt shows all of the work that goes into helping save lives and helping people who need blood, everyone needs blood,” said Ty.