WICS is a local organization that supports individuals with special needs, to facilitate opportunities for them to become more involved in their communities through volunteering and employment, helping them live more self-sufficiently.
The partnership between the two organizations has benefited both parties. The Canadian Blood Services’ use of WICS volunteers will help make much needed improvements within the clinics. The territory manager of South of Edmonton, Cassandra DeLuca, said:
“From time to time, we do find that our clinics are poorly prepared, which basically means there’s low appointment bookings for that particular clinic. This was one of those clinics that was identified as having issues with ensuring that we would meet our blood collection target.”
Winder Inclusive Communities Service volunteers will help by increasing bookings by asking their own staff, friends and family to donate their blood, as well as helping out during clinic times, according to DeLuca.
Approximately 50 per cent of Canadians may need blood at some point of their lives, or know of someone that will need blood as a necessity, according to Canadian Blood Services. Therefore, it is important to get the word out into the community. Organizations often benefit from brochure and flyer printing to educate the public on the benefits of their programs.