About Us

OneBlood is not just a blood donation organization; it’s a lifeline that connects generous donors with patients in desperate need. Our mission is simple yet profound: to enhance the health and well-being of others through our work with blood and stem cell donations. As one of the largest blood centers in the United States, OneBlood serves more than 250 hospitals and healthcare facilities across Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama.

Our History: A Legacy of Saving Lives

OneBlood was formed in 2012 through the merger of three of Florida’s independent, not-for-profit blood centers. This consolidation brought together over 100 years of combined experience in blood banking and transfusion medicine. The founding organizations recognized that by joining forces, they could create a stronger, more efficient entity capable of meeting the evolving needs of the communities they served.

Since its inception, OneBlood has been at the forefront of blood donation services, constantly innovating and adapting to ensure a safe and stable blood supply. Our rich history is a testament to the dedication of countless individuals who have worked tirelessly to save lives through blood donation.

Our Mission: Every Drop Counts

At OneBlood, we believe that every drop of blood has the potential to save a life. Our mission is multifaceted:

1. Provide a safe, available, and affordable blood supply: We work diligently to ensure that hospitals and patients have access to the blood they need when they need it.
2. Educate the community: We strive to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and the impact it has on saving lives.
3. Advance transfusion medicine: Through research and collaboration, we continually seek to improve blood collection, processing, and transfusion practices.
4. Offer diverse services: Beyond whole blood donation, we provide specialized services such as platelet donation, plasma donation, and red cell apheresis.

The OneBlood Difference: Innovation and Excellence

What sets OneBlood apart is our commitment to innovation and excellence in every aspect of our operations. Here are some key features that define the OneBlood difference:

State-of-the-Art Technology

We invest in cutting-edge technology to enhance the donation experience and improve the efficiency of our blood processing and distribution systems. From our mobile donation units equipped with the latest apheresis machines to our advanced testing laboratories, we ensure that every step of the blood donation process meets the highest standards of quality and safety.

Comprehensive Donor Screening

Safety is paramount in blood donation. Our rigorous donor screening process includes a detailed health history questionnaire and a mini-physical to ensure that both donors and recipients are protected. We also employ advanced testing methods to screen for infectious diseases, maintaining the integrity of our blood supply.

The Big Red Bus

Our fleet of mobile donation units, affectionately known as the “Big Red Bus,” brings the opportunity to donate blood directly to communities, businesses, and schools. This innovative approach has made blood donation more accessible and convenient for thousands of donors across our service area.

OneBlood Rewards Program

We believe in recognizing and appreciating our donors. The OneBlood Rewards program offers various incentives, including points that can be redeemed for gift cards, exclusive merchandise, and special experiences. This program not only shows our gratitude but also encourages regular donations.

Our Impact: Lives Saved, Communities Strengthened

The impact of OneBlood extends far beyond the numbers. Every day, the blood donated through our organization helps:

• Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
• Accident and trauma victims
• Newborns and mothers with complications during childbirth
• Individuals with blood disorders like sickle cell disease
• Patients undergoing organ transplants

In a typical year, OneBlood collects nearly one million blood products, touching countless lives. But behind these statistics are real people – mothers, fathers, children, and friends – whose lives have been saved or improved thanks to the generosity of our donors.

Community Engagement: Beyond Blood Donation

OneBlood is more than just a blood bank; we’re an integral part of the communities we serve. Our commitment to community engagement is reflected in various initiatives:

Education and Outreach

We conduct educational programs in schools, colleges, and community centers to raise awareness about blood donation and inspire the next generation of donors. Our team of dedicated speakers and educators brings passion and knowledge to every presentation, helping to dispel myths and encourage participation.

Partnerships and Collaborations

OneBlood partners with local businesses, sports teams, and community organizations to host blood drives and special events. These collaborations not only boost our blood supply but also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility.

Diversity Initiatives

We recognize the importance of a diverse blood supply, especially for patients with rare blood types or those requiring frequent transfusions. Our diversity initiatives focus on engaging with various ethnic and cultural communities to ensure a blood supply that meets the needs of all patients.

Join Our Mission: Be a Hero, Donate Blood

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. By donating blood with OneBlood, you become part of a vital network that saves lives every day. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Donate Blood: Whether it’s whole blood, platelets, or plasma, your donation can make a real difference.
2. Host a Blood Drive: Organize a blood drive at your workplace, school, or community organization.
3. Volunteer: Help us at blood drives, special events, or in our donor centers.
4. Spread the Word: Share your donation experience on social media and encourage others to donate.
5. Financial Support: Consider making a financial contribution to support our mission and help cover the costs of blood collection and processing.

Looking to the Future: Innovations in Blood Banking

As we look to the future, OneBlood remains committed to advancing the field of blood banking and transfusion medicine. We’re investing in research to develop new blood products, improve storage methods, and enhance the matching of blood types between donors and recipients.

We’re also exploring new technologies to make the donation process even more efficient and donor-friendly. From online appointment scheduling to virtual health history assessments, we’re constantly seeking ways to streamline the donation experience.

Conclusion

At OneBlood, we believe in the power of community. Every donor, every volunteer, every staff member, and every patient is part of the OneBlood family. Together, we create a lifeline that flows through our communities, connecting those in need with those who can help.

We invite you to join us in our mission. Whether you’re a first-time donor or a long-time supporter, your contribution matters. Because at OneBlood, we know that it’s not just blood – it’s life.

Visit our website or call us today to learn more about how you can be part of the OneBlood story. Together, we can ensure that every patient has access to the lifesaving blood they need when they need it most.