The school’s annual blood drive, held in November, gave students the opportunity to donate blood through an event coordinated by Fremd Student Council in partnership with Versiti, a regional organization that collaborates with local hospitals.
Started more than 16 years ago, the blood drive has become a key way Fremd supports its local community. Each year, on the day before Thanksgiving break, dozens of students roll up their sleeves to donate and contribute to lifesaving blood supplies.
Senior Asher Kim was among the students who participated for the first time.
“My friend was doing it and recommended I do it with him,” Kim said. “He told me about the benefits my blood could have for others, and I agreed.”
Hospitals across the United States rely on donors like Kim to maintain adequate blood supplies. There is no substitute for donated blood, which is essential for patients of all ages. Blood transfusions are used to treat cancer patients, burn victims and surgical patients, among others. Each donation can be separated into red blood cells, platelets and plasma, allowing a single pint of blood to help multiple recipients.
Student Council organizers emphasized the importance of donating. Sophomore Amaani Sood said the impact of the blood drive extends far beyond Fremd, helping people in need continue to live their daily lives.
Student Council co-president Junya Liu highlighted both the practical and community-focused aspects of the event.
“You save three lives for every donation you give, and the organization Versiti is really interesting because they partner with local hospitals,” Liu said. “It’s also a way for the student body to be united in service.”
Volunteers also emphasized the coordination required to ensure a smooth donation process. Versiti staff members and Fremd student volunteers worked together throughout the day, guiding donors through registration, medical screenings and recovery. Organizers said creating a calm and supportive environment is especially important for first-time donors.
By the end of the event, Student Council members said the steady flow of participants reflected both strong turnout and a shared commitment to public health within the school community.
