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MITCHELL — Lily Peterson, a Mitchell native and freshman nursing student at Black Hills State University, is turning compassion into college cash while saving lives.
Her third blood drive this week not only earned her a $500 scholarship but also collected 42 units of blood, potentially helping up to 126 patients across South Dakota.
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Peterson’s journey as a blood drive organizer began in January 2024 when she learned about LifeServe Blood Center’s scholarship program. Since then, she has hosted three successful drives, each demonstrating her growing skill at community organizing and her commitment to making a difference.
“It’s so simple and easy,” Peterson said. “It takes 20 minutes of a person’s day to save another person’s life.”
Through her efforts, Peterson has earned $1,500 in scholarship funds. The LifeServe Blood Center’s program offers students $250 for recruiting 25 donors and $500 for 40 donors. But for Peterson, the impact goes beyond financial gain.
Over the course of her three blood drives, she has recruited 132 blood donors, collecting 130 units of blood. These donations have the potential to help up to 390 patients, as each unit can be separated into components including whole blood, platelets and plasma.
What sets Peterson apart is her ability to inspire others. In her most recent drive, 16 of the 36 donors were first-time blood donors. This is particularly significant given that less than 3% of people regularly donate blood, according to Abbie Arneson, LifeServe Blood Center of Mitchell territory representative.
“It’s truly remarkable what Lily has accomplished,” Arneson said. “Hosting a blood drive is a community service opportunity, and Lily’s drives have had a lasting impact, introducing so many people to the importance of blood donation. She’s making a difference far beyond her drives.”
The young organizer’s methods for recruiting donors include leveraging social media and personal connections. She’s also not afraid to step out of her comfort zone, often approaching strangers to discuss the importance of blood donation.
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“Sometimes I have to walk up to random people. It’s a little uncomfortable at first, but it’s important,” Peterson said. “And the more I do it, the easier it gets.”
The success of Peterson’s efforts is measured not only in lives saved but also in her personal growth. Organizing these drives has boosted her self-confidence and improved her interpersonal skills.
“It’s about helping others, but it’s also been really rewarding for me. I’ve learned a lot about leadership and talking to people I wouldn’t have before,” Peterson said.
Peterson remains committed to the cause. Her drives consistently surpass expectations, with the average blood drive attracting around 20 to 25 donors, according to Arneson.
“It’s a lot of work, but when I hear that I’ve helped save so many lives, it makes it all worth it,” Peterson said. “I’ve found that the more effort you put into something, the more rewarding it is. The most rewarding part is having a small part in saving so many people around the world.”
The timing of Peterson’s efforts is particularly crucial. During the winter months, when blood donations typically drop due to seasonal travel and holidays, her blood drives help fill the critical need for donations at local hospitals.
With three successful drives under her belt, Peterson already has her next one scheduled for July 2025. For anyone wanting to donate, appointments can be scheduled by visiting www.lifeservebloodcenter.org or calling 800-287-4903.
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