We Are Blood Unveils Strategic Initiative to Improve Services
Launching a multi-year plan aligns with nonprofit's mission and 75 years of service.
We Are Blood, Central Texas' dedicated nonprofit blood center, announces a new initiative termed 'Every Drop Counts' aimed at expanding services to meet the rising demand for blood products in the region. This strategic plan represents a significant effort to support community healthcare needs as we approach 2030, coinciding with the organization’s 75th anniversary.
The nonprofit has already made remarkable strides, providing over 96% more platelets and 55% more red blood cells annually since 2015. Anticipating a 25% increase in required blood products across a 10-county service area, We Are Blood is proactively taking measures to ensure it can meet this demand. Factors such as population growth, the establishment of new hospitals, and enhanced emergency medical services underline the urgency for this plan.
'Every Drop Counts' is structured around four strategic pillars, framed by insights gathered from staff, organizational leaders, and partnerships with local hospitals and emergency medical services. These pillars serve as a foundation for identifying key areas and necessary projects to keep pace with the expected surge in blood product demand.
Strategic Pillars to Transform Blood Supply Services
The initiative will result in numerous benefits aimed at improving local healthcare delivery. Key advancements include faster access to life-saving blood products for medical partners and enhanced patient care across the community. Below are the four foundational pillars of this ambitious plan:
1. Serve
We Are Blood is committed to modernizing its services significantly. Investments will be made in advanced technology for blood processing and inventory management. Plans include developing new donor centers, with one being constructed in Kyle, Texas by the summer of 2026, and additional centers to be identified by 2030. Furthermore, the organization will enhance its readiness for disasters and increase its fleet of blood donation buses to improve accessibility for donors.
2. Innovate
Significant financial commitments will see the launch of the region’s inaugural Pediatric Stem Cell Transplant Program in collaboration with Dell Children's Medical Center. Additionally, in-house molecular testing capabilities will be developed to streamline stem cell collection processes, improve the identification of rare blood donors, and reduce dependencies on external facilities. These innovations will ensure that patients with complex needs receive care closer to home.
3. Engage
We Are Blood aims to deepen its community engagement. This involves increasing awareness about the importance of blood donation and fostering relationships with new and diverse communities, especially younger generations. A community advisory council will provide a platform for local leaders to share perspectives and feedback, driving initiatives that build a stronger blood supply.
4. Empower
The organization recognizes the need for strong leadership and employee engagement to create a sustainable operation. New leadership development programs and recruitment strategies are planned to nurture future leaders within the organization. This includes enhancing mentorship and training opportunities through the Emerging Leaders Academy, aimed at frontline staff.
The CEO of We Are Blood, Marian Garrard, emphasized the importance of the strategic plan, stating, "This initiative equips us to handle the anticipated rise in blood product demand while fostering community resilience. We have ambitious goals to grow our collection efforts, improve our services, and inspire a greater number of donors to come forward. Acknowledging every contributor—donors, volunteers, staff, and partners—is vital for our ongoing success."
Celebrating 75 Years of Service
The launch of 'Every Drop Counts' marks a significant milestone as it aligns with We Are Blood’s 75th anniversary. The organization plans to host various events throughout the year, engaging the community by calling for action and celebrating the successes achieved alongside local partners.
For more details and to join this crucial mission, We Are Blood encourages all residents to get involved, whether through donations or community engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of 'Every Drop Counts'?
'Every Drop Counts' is a strategic initiative launched by We Are Blood to enhance blood services and meet increasing patient care needs in Central Texas.
How will We Are Blood meet the increased demand for blood products?
The organization plans to expand its donor centers, modernize its processing technology, and implement new community engagement strategies to ensure an adequate blood supply.
What are the four strategic pillars of the initiative?
The four pillars are Serve, Innovate, Engage, and Empower, focusing on improving services, advancing technology, community involvement, and leadership development.
Who does We Are Blood serve?
We Are Blood serves over 50 hospitals, medical facilities, and EMS agencies in its ten-county service area in Central Texas.
What recognition coincides with the initiative's launch?
The initiative coincides with We Are Blood's 75th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its mission of serving the community through blood donation.
