We are partnering with Versiti Blood Center of Ohio to raise awareness about the need for lifesaving blood donations, and we need your help! As an official Zoo partner, Versiti will support the Pulse of Summer Blood Drive on Wednesday, June 8, 2022.

The blood drive will take place at the Zoo’s Africa Event Center located off the main parking lot, and appointments are available to book online now from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. As a thank you for your important contribution, all blood donors will receive a BOGO Zoombezi Bay ticket and a portable Bluetooth speaker (while supplies last).

Anyone 17 years or older who is in general good health and meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to donate blood. (In fact, donors can also donate blood every 56 days!) Parental consent is required for 16-year-olds to donate. Appointments are preferred to ensure a quick and convenient donation, but walk-in donors are also welcome. The entire process takes about an hour. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date. Donors are also encouraged to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.

Blood is precious and perishable, and the need for blood donors is vital. Every 2 seconds, someone in the United States is in need of blood. By donating blood, you are helping to save up to three lives!