Translating Compassion

Renato Fuentes

By John Rose, Red Cross volunteer

The American Red Cross is part of the largest humanitarian network in human history. The National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies relieve human suffering in over 192 countries, thereby allowing each staff member and volunteer to make a difference no matter where they live. Renato Fuentes, a multicultural communications manager, understands this and has come to embody the Red Cross’ international spirit. 

Renato’s history with the Red Cross began near Mexico City, where he grew up. “In Mexico, the Red Cross has a very great reputation,” said Renato. “It’s going to sound very cliché, but it’s been one of my dreams to work for the Red Cross.” 

Enamored with the organization’s impact, Renato joined the Mexican Red Cross, where he underwent training to become a paramedic. He also participated in volunteer activities like teaching preventive measures in schools and planting trees. 

Towards the end of 2021, Renato moved to the United States and settled in Nashville, Tennessee. He soon began looking for opportunities with the American Red Cross and in early 2022 joined the ranks as a volunteer Spanish translator, public affairs representative, and editor. “I really liked this position because it had something to do with my background. I have a bachelor’s in languages and linguistics,” Renato said. 

He quickly excelled in this role, taking on more responsibilities and even becoming a team leader. This April, he accepted a position to become a multicultural communications manager for the Red Cross national multi-cultural communications team. “It’s a lot of responsibility, but it’s also very rewarding,” said Renato. “Our translations don’t just stay in the department; they don’t just stay in the region; they go to the entire country.” 

With this new perspective, Renato has spoken up about the importance of recruiting more bilingual speakers to the American Red Cross, particularly to help better serve our Spanish-speaking communities, especially during times of disaster. 

“This goes beyond translations. It just must be addressed somehow,” said Renato. “We can translate a flyer about a blood drive, but what happens when Spanish-only speakers go to the blood drive and then there’s no one there who can translate for them?” 

Renato Fuentes's journey from Mexico to the U.S. is a story of passion and a global perspective that underscores the core values of the Red Cross.  

Currently, there is a great need for bilingual English/Spanish-speaking volunteers who are willing to serve as disaster responders in the Tennessee Region. These volunteers would be critical in serving mission delivery to communities that otherwise would be difficult to assist. To learn how you can make a difference go to RedCross.org/Tennessee 

Tennessee Severe Weather Response: May 2024

 

Last updated May 11, 2024

American Red Cross Tennessee Region volunteers are responding to assist people affected by severe weather, including tornados and flash flooding, that hit May 8 through the overnight hours. The Red Cross is working closely with emergency management partners to meet the needs of multiple communities across the state.

Shelters are now closed. 

Anyone displaced from their home in need of Red Cross assistance should call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Tennessee Red Cross Severe Weather Response Update - May 9, 2024

May 9, 2024

Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the severe weather, tornados and flash flooding.

Tennessee Region Red Cross volunteers are responding across the state as it is safe to do so. We are coordinating closely with our emergency management partners to meet the needs of affected communities.

If you are displaced from your home and need Red Cross assistance, please call us at 1-800-RED CROSS.

Middle Tennessee Blood Donation Opportunities: May 7-31, 2024

Help keep emergency rooms ready by giving blood or platelets

Free haircut coupon by email, chance to win VIP racing experience and more by coming to give now

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 7, 2024 — When every second counts, blood products can provide lifesaving care. The American Red Cross asks the public to give blood or platelets during Trauma Awareness Month in May to keep hospitals prepared for all transfusion needs, including emergencies. Type O blood donors and donors giving platelets are especially needed right now: 

• Type O negative is the universal blood type and what emergency room personnel reach for when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type in the most serious situations. 
• Type O positive blood is the most used blood type because it can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type.
• Platelets are often needed to help with clotting in cases of massive bleeding. 

It’s the blood already on the shelves that can help save lives in an emergency. Book a time to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Thanks to Sport Clips Haircuts, all who come to donate April 29-May 31 will get a coupon for a free haircut by email. Plus, those who come to give through May 19 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two and VIP racing experience to the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Races at Darlington Raceway Labor Day weekend, including entry to the Sport Clips racetrack hospitality tent and a $1,000 gift card. Additionally, those who come to give through May 19 will also get a bonus $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. For details on all offers, visit RedCrossBlood.org/RaceToGive. 

Upcoming blood donation opportunities May 7-31

KENTUCKY

Allen County

Scottsville

5/8/2024: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., Scottsville Church of Christ, 1379 Smiths Grove Road

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Logan County

Auburn

5/10/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., New Friendship Baptist Church, 5030 Friendship Road

Russellville

5/16/2024: 6 a.m. - 11 a.m., Logan Aluminum, 6920 Lewisburg Road

5/16/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Logan Aluminum, 6920 Lewisburg Road

5/17/2024: 6 a.m. - 12 p.m., Logan Aluminum, 6920 Lewisburg Road

5/28/2024: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Logan Memorial Hospital, 1625 Nashville St.

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Warren County

Bowling Green

5/7/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Med Center Health-WKU Health Sciences Complex, 700 1st St.

5/8/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn University Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/9/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 4754 Smallhouse Road

5/10/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn University Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/15/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn University Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/17/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn University Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/22/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/24/2024: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Graves Gilbert Medical Clinic, 201 Park St.

5/24/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/24/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Crossland Community Church, 600 US 31W Byp, Ste 18 D

5/29/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn University Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

5/30/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Rich Pond Baptist Church, 200 Brad Ave.

5/31/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Holiday Inn University Plaza & Sloan Convention Center, 1021 Wilkinson Trace

Oakland

5/28/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Lions Club Smith Grove, 410 Church St.

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TENNESSEE

Bedford County

Shelbyville

5/14/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Baptist Shelbyville, 304 East Depot St.

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Benton County

Big Sandy

5/10/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Big Sandy Senior Citizen's Center, 224 2nd Ave.

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Cannon County

Woodbury

5/16/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Lions Club Building, 634 Lehman St.

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Cheatham County

Pleasant View

5/7/2024: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., The Livery Stables, 1104 Main St.

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Coffee County

Tullahoma

5/8/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Faith Bible Fellowship, 1401 Wilson Ave.

5/14/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 200 NE Atlantic St.

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Davidson County

Goodlettsville

5/8/2024: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., New Heights Church, 363 Caldwell Drive

5/14/2024: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 613 South Main St.

5/21/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Faith Presbyterian Church, 372 Caldwell Drive

5/22/2024: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., GoodNaz, 400 Loretta Drive

5/29/2024: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., The Next Level Games, 1000 Rivergate Parkway, Unit 1710

Hermitage

5/16/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Metro Police-Hermitage, 3701 James Kay Lane

Madison

5/17/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Rock of Ages Lutheran Church, 741 East Campbell Road

5/21/2024: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Cornerstone Church, 726 W Old Hickory Blvd.

5/22/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Nashville Public Library - Madison Branch, 610 Gallatin Pike S.

Nashville

5/7/2024: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Light Hall, 2215 Garland Ave.

5/7/2024: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Historic Metro Courthouse, 1 Public Sq

5/7/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/8/2024: 11 a.m. - 5:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/10/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/10/2024: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Vanderbilt Health 100 Oaks, 719 Thompson Lane

5/10/2024: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Galen College of Nursing, 1100 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd.

5/11/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/12/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/13/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/14/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., CarMax Rivergate, 2353 Gallatin Pike N

5/14/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/15/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., FINN Partners, 700 12th Ave S

5/15/2024: 11 a.m. - 5:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/15/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Light Hall, 2215 Garland Ave.

5/16/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Center for Contemplative Justice, 5201 Alabama Ave.

5/17/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., St. Verena American Coptic Orthodox Church, 5240 Edmonson Pike

5/18/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/18/2024: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Nashville Soccer Club, 2226 Bransford Ave.

5/19/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/20/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., The Loveless Cafe, 8400 Highway 100

5/20/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/21/2024: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Ascension Saint Thomas West Hospital, 4220 Harding Road

5/21/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/22/2024: 11 a.m. - 5:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/23/2024: 7 a.m. - 2 p.m., DCSO HEADQUARTERS, 710 S 5th St.

5/23/2024: 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown Hospital, 2000 Church St.

5/24/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/24/2024: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Light Hall, 2215 Garland Ave.

5/24/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Sri Saibaba Temple, 12330 Old Hickory Blvd.

5/25/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/26/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/27/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/28/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/29/2024: 11 a.m. - 5:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/29/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Light Hall, 2215 Garland Ave.

5/29/2024: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Ford Ice Center Bellevue, 7638 B Highway 70 S

5/30/2024: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Brentwood Hills Church of Christ, 5120 Franklin Pike

5/31/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Nashville Blood Donation Center, 2201 Charlotte Ave.

5/31/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Emmanuel Presbyterian Church, 9770 Highway 96

Old Hickory

5/10/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Old Hickory Church of Christ, 1001 Hadley Ave.

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DeKalb County

Smithville

5/7/2024: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Cumberland Presbyterian Church, 201 South College St.

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Dickson County

Dickson

5/8/2024: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Bank of Dickson, 466 Hwy 46 S.

5/9/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dickson Cumberland Presbyterian, 500 Hwy 70 East

5/31/2024: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., YMCA Dickson, 301 Henslee Drive

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Giles County

Pulaski

5/20/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., The Rec Center, 333 East College St.

_______________

Henry County

Paris

5/23/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Four Seasons, 2350 Lakeway Circle

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Hickman County

Lyles

5/23/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., East Hickman Fire Department, 7669 Highway 7

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Houston County

Erin

5/13/2024: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Erin Church of the Nazarene, 11 College St.

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Humphreys County

Waverly

5/31/2024: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Waverly United Methodist Church, 115 West Main St.

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Lawrence County

Lawrenceburg

5/30/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 212 Waterloo St.

Leoma

5/14/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Leoma Church of Christ, 2600 Highway 43 South

Loretto

5/28/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Loretto, 204 West Commerce St.

Summertown

5/29/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Summertown Saddle & Bridle Club, Highway 20

_______________

Lincoln County

Fayetteville

5/28/2024: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., City of Fayetteville Parks & Recreation, 1203 Winchester Hwy

_______________

Marshall County

Lewisburg

5/16/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Church Street Church of Christ, 305 West Church St.

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Maury County

Columbia

5/23/2024: 10 a.m. - 3:45 p.m., Tennessee Army National Guard, 844 N James Campbell Blvd.

Spring Hill

5/10/2024: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Hampton Inn - Spring Hill Community, 2052 Crossings Blvd.

5/20/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 5344 Main St.

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Montgomery County

Clarksville

5/8/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

5/13/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

5/13/2024: 2:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., East Montgomery Elementary School, 230 McAdoo Creek Road

5/15/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

5/17/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Customs House Museum, 200 2nd St.

5/20/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

5/20/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Governor's Square Mall, 2801 Wilma Rudolph Blvd.

5/22/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

5/29/2024: 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St.

5/31/2024: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Veteran's Plaza - William O. Beach Civic Hall, 350 Pagaent Lane

Fort Campbell

5/8/2024: 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Taylor Dental Clinic, 5580 Desert Storm Ave

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Perry County

Linden

5/30/2024: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, 138 West Main St.

_______________

Putnam County

Cookeville

5/8/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Putnam County Library, 50 E. Broad St.

5/17/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., YMCA, 235 Raider Drive

5/29/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Putnam County Library, 50 E. Broad St.

Monterey

5/30/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Monterey Branch Library, 401 East Commercial Ave.

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Robertson County

Cross Plains

5/23/2024: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 7109 Hwy 25 E.

Greenbrier

5/15/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., Cross Roads Baptist Church, 2649 New Cut Road

Springfield

5/16/2024: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., Owens Chapel UMC, 6742 Owens Chapel Road

White House

5/7/2024: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Revolution Church, 3644 Highway 31W

5/20/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Temple Baptist Church, 117 Marlin Road

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Rutherford County

La Vergne

5/30/2024: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Miracle Baptist Church, 205 Easy St.

Murfreesboro

5/9/2024: 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/10/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/10/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., St. Thomas Rutherford Hospital, 1700 Medical Parkway

5/11/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/12/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/13/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/15/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Murfreesboro Medical Clinic Gateway, 1272 Garrison Drive

5/15/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., World Outreach Church, 1921 New Salem Highway

5/16/2024: 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/17/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/18/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/19/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/20/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/21/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., World Outreach Church, 1921 New Salem Highway

5/23/2024: 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/24/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/24/2024: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., VFW Post 12206, 1257 NW Broad St.

5/25/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/26/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/27/2024: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/29/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Blackman United Methodist Church, 4380 Manson Pike

5/30/2024: 10 a.m. - 4:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/30/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Northside Baptist Church, 655 W. Thompson Lane

5/31/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:45 p.m., Murfreesboro Blood Donation Center, 501 Memorial Blvd.

5/31/2024: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., World Outreach Church, 1921 New Salem Highway

Rockvale

5/13/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Rockvale Meadows HOA, 2225 Salem Woods Drive

Smyrna

5/28/2024: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., St. Luke Catholic Church, 10682 Old Nashville Hwy

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Stewart County

Dover

5/9/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Fort Donelson United Methodist Church, 420 Church St.

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Sumner County

Gallatin

5/9/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highpoint Health - Sumner Station, 225 Big Station Camp Blvd.

5/13/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highpoint Health - Sumner Station, 225 Big Station Camp Blvd.

5/15/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Gallatin Civic Center, 210 Albert Gallatin Ave.

5/17/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highpoint Health - Sumner, 555 Hartsville Pike

5/21/2024: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Gallatin Public Library, 123 E. Main St.

5/23/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highpoint Health - Sumner Station, 225 Big Station Camp Blvd.

5/24/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Gallatin Civic Center, 210 Albert Gallatin Ave.

5/28/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highpoint Health - Sumner Station, 225 Big Station Camp Blvd.

5/29/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Highpoint Health - Sumner, 555 Hartsville Pike

5/30/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Gallatin Civic Center, 210 Albert Gallatin Ave.

Hendersonville

5/13/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Sumner Association of Realtors, 35 Executive Park Dr. Unit B

5/24/2024: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Hendersonville Community Church, 381 West Main

5/30/2024: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 172 West Main St.

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Wayne County

Waynesboro

5/9/2024: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Waynesboro Church of Christ, 304 Hassell St.

_______________

Williamson County

Brentwood

5/7/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/9/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/10/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/10/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Brentwood Fire Department, 5211 Maryland Way

5/11/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/12/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/13/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/14/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., City of Brentwood, Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road

5/14/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/15/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., LifePoint Health, 330 Seven Springs Way

5/16/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/17/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/18/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/19/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/20/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/21/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/23/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/23/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., LBMC, 201 Franklin Road

5/24/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/25/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/26/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/27/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/28/2024: 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/28/2024: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., Harpeth Presbyterian Church, 3077 Hillsboro Road

5/29/2024: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Quorum Health, 1573 Mallory Lane

5/30/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

5/31/2024: 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Brentwood Blood Donation Center, 91 Seaboard Lane, Ste 104

Franklin

5/8/2024: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., City of Franklin, TN, 109 3rd Ave. S.

5/13/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Westhaven Residents Club, 401 Cheltenham Ave.

5/16/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Fieldstone Farms Blood Drive, 1530 Lexington Parkway

5/17/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Franklin American Red Cross, 129 West Fowlkes St., Ste 100

5/17/2024: 12 p.m. - 4 p.m., Vanderbilt Medical Group, 2105 Edward Curd Lane

5/21/2024: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., eviCore, 730 Cool Springs Blvd Suite 800

5/21/2024: 1:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., CoolSprings Galleria, JC Penney Lower Level Mall Area, 1800 Galleria Blvd.

5/24/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Franklin American Red Cross, 129 West Fowlkes St, Ste 100

5/28/2024: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Residence Inn Berry Farms Franklin TN, 8078 Berry Farms Crossing

5/30/2024: 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Williamson County Administrative Complex, 1320 Main St. Ste 125

5/30/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Franklin American Red Cross, 129 West Fowlkes St, Ste 100

Nolensville

5/9/2024: 1:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m., Nolensville First United Methodist Church, 7316 Nolensville Road

_______________

Wilson County

Lebanon

5/7/2024: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital, 1411 Baddour Parkway

5/14/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Wilson County Veterans Building, 945 E. Baddour Parkway

5/28/2024: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., East/West Building, 945 E Baddour Parkway

5/28/2024: 2 p.m. - 6 p.m., St. Frances Cabrini Catholic, 300 South Tarver Ave.

Mount Juliet

5/7/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Celebration Lutheran Church, 3425 N Mount Juliet Road

5/15/2024: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Mt. Juliet Community Center, 1075 Charlie Daniels Pkwy

5/16/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Celebration Lutheran Church, 3425 N Mount Juliet Road

5/24/2024: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Celebration Lutheran Church, 3425 N Mount Juliet Road

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. 

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App. 

Amplify your impact − volunteer! 

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.  

For more information and to apply, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday. 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Tracy's Story

 

Last November, Tracy Fox stepped into a crosswalk and her life changed forever.

Tracy, one of our employees who works in Government Relations, was leaving an event at Red Cross headquarters in Washington, D.C. when she was hit by a bus. The wheels caught her left leg, and when she woke up in the hospital, she learned the damage was so extensive that she’d need an amputation.

Unfortunately, Tracy developed an infection and her hemoglobin levels dropped so low that surgery wasn’t possible. That’s when her care team ordered a blood transfusion.

“The minute my doctor said, ‘We’re going to do a transfusion,’ I asked if it would come from the Red Cross,” Tracy said. “As soon as they hung that unit of blood, sure enough, it said, ‘Generously donated to the American Red Cross.’ That one unit of blood saved my life because I was able to have surgery, eliminate the infection, and go on to recover.”

Tracy received her blood transfusion on Christmas Day, the best Christmas present she says she’s ever gotten. She spent January in the hospital and was eventually able to return home, continue rehabilitation, and receive a prosthetic leg.

Tracy says she’s living proof of something that's often said here at the Red Cross: Every blood donation makes a difference.

In her words:

“I received one unit of blood, but that ‘just one unit’ made the difference between life and death for me. I had a successful outcome because someone thought to go and donate that one unit of blood. It really can be one unit that changes a person’s life in an instant. I’m especially grateful to that person who donated and changed my life — and all who donate.

“It’s such a journey, and every day is a new learning. First, it was how to get out of a hospital bed. Then, how do I hop around with a walker. Once I was fitted for my prosthetic leg, that was a whole new journey. I do therapy three times a week to work on strength, balance and gait. At 50 years old, I have found new muscles I didn’t know existed!

"Through it all, I’ve been reminded just how lucky I am in a million ways. If I had been just one or two steps further in the crosswalk, it would have been a totally different outcome. If just one person reads my story and goes to donate blood, that’s what I want and why I keep pushing forward.”

Just one unit of blood could save a life. Make an appointment to donate blood: https://rdcrss.org/3y5zBdZ

Middle Tennessee Woman Honored for Saving a Life

Lisa Williams and Joel Sullivan, regional executive officer for the American Red Cross Tennessee Region

Red Cross Certificate of Merit presented to Lisa Williams  

NASHVILLE, Tenn., May 2, 2024 — An average workday for one local woman turned into her using skills she learned at an American Red Cross training in First Aid and CPR to save the life of one of her employees. Lisa Williams was walking through her business’s warehouse when she heard a man had passed out in a restroom. Not thinking twice about it, her instincts kicked in after taking the CPR class recently at the Nashville Area Chapter Red Cross offices. 

  

“Several employees were yelling does anyone know CPR,” Williams said. “I told them yes! I went in there and he was turning blue. We called 9-1-1 and had them on the phone. I immediately started CPR and he gurgled, and we finally got a faint pulse. The EMTs were there quickly, and I have heard he is doing well, which is amazing.” For this heroic and lifesaving action, she received the Red Cross Certificate of Merit in a ceremony during the Red Cross Lifesaver Luncheon last month. 

  

The Certificate of Merit is the highest award given by the Red Cross to individuals who save or sustain a life using skills learned in a Red Cross Training Services course. 

  

“We’re extremely proud to present a Certificate of Merit to Lisa Williams,” said Joel Sullivan, regional executive officer for the Tennessee Region. “Her actions exemplify our mission to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.” 

  

Williams was thankful for the class she took and knows that was the difference between life and death for her employee. “If you were the one who needed CPR, and I was the one who took a few hours out of my day to take the CPR class, I could save your life. I could not do that without that Red Cross class.” 

“I am not a hero,” she added. “I was just given the tool to save a life. I am thankful I was there with the knowledge I had to act when it was needed most.” 

 

Red Cross training gives people the knowledge and skills to act in an emergency and save a life. A variety of online, blended (online and in-person skills session) and classroom courses are available at redcross.org/takeaclass. 

  

If you or someone you know has used skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course to help save or sustain the life of another individual, visit LifesavingAwards.org to nominate, recognize, or be inspired. 

 

About the American Red Cross:  

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.