The Guelph Chamber of Commerce consists of 850 member businesses that work hard to build a better community: building community is the lifeblood of Chambers of Commerce around the world. Getting involved with the community is encouraged within the Chamber’s Mission Statement: “The Guelph Chamber of Commerce represents the voice of business contributing to economic growth, profitability, competitiveness and community involvement for all types of businesses and business people in Guelph.”
Canadian Blood Services is a member of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce that gives us all an opportunity to give back in a very meaningful way. In about an hour of your time you can save three lives every 56 days.
The people you are helping have just given birth, are fighting cancer, been in a car accidents, or any number of ways that have them in the care of Guelph’s medical professionals. You or someone you know at some time will probably need to withdraw from Canada’s blood bank. None of us really like to line up to get a needle put in our arm, but the people you are helping have more than a needle prick to worry about. The wonderful staff and volunteers at our blood clinic make donating blood more like visiting friends than facing a needle. The needle is really no big deal. And it ends with cookies and juice.
The summer time is a tough time for our blood supply. The clinic at Silvercreek and Willow is quieter than they like to be. There are lots of cancelations as the great weather keeps people outside. But the hospital never takes a vacation. The need for blood is as constant as a heartbeat, and something you never think about until there is a problem.
As Canadians we give and receive blood freely, which says a lot about us. But it is not the other person’s job. Less than 10% of Canadians provide blood for the rest. You can be in the top 10% by holding out your arm.
The Donors for Life Board lists many local businesses and organizations whose staff members are committed to donating blood on a regular basis. The names on the board show the best of the best of Guelph, who keep our community running in many ways. It is not surprising to see they also supply blood to those who need it.
The Guelph Chamber of Commerce encourages you to get involved in your community in any way you are able. Giving an hour of your time and a pint of your blood every two months is a very important way you can help out. Please call 1-800-236-6283 (2-donate) to set up an appointment, or drop in. Save a life today, and become one of Guelph’s many heroes.
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