National Blood Donor Month:
Honoring heroes for over
50 years
Since 1970, January has been designated as a month to honor and celebrate the incredible generosity of America's volunteer blood donors. Learn the history of this important national observance.
How it all started
The story of National Blood Donor Month began with a simple but powerful idea: to honor the volunteers who give the gift of life.
National Blood Donor Month was officially established in 1970 to recognize and honor the millions of Americans who voluntarily donate blood to help save lives. The designation came at a critical time when the need for safe, reliable blood donations was becoming increasingly important for modern medical care.
January was chosen as the month to celebrate blood donors because winter is traditionally a time when blood donations decline due to weather conditions, holiday travel, and seasonal illnesses. By focusing national attention on blood donation during this challenging time, organizers hoped to encourage more people to donate when the need was greatest.
The initiative was born from the recognition that volunteer blood donors are the sole source of life-saving blood products. Unlike many medical treatments that can be manufactured or synthesized, blood can only come from generous human donors willing to help their fellow Americans in times of medical crisis.
Original Proclamation Document
View the official resolution that established National Blood Donor Month, recognizing the vital contribution of volunteer blood donors to American healthcare.
Download Proclamation PDF50+ years of saving lives
National Blood Donor Month has evolved over five decades, continuously adapting to meet America's changing healthcare needs.
Foundation Era
National Blood Donor Month established to honor volunteer donors and raise awareness. Focus on building public understanding of the critical need for donated blood in hospitals and medical centers.
Safety Revolution
Blood donation practices transformed with enhanced safety protocols and testing procedures. National campaigns emphasized the safety of donation and the critical importance of volunteer donors.
Expansion of Awareness
National Blood Donor Month expanded to include recognition of platelet donors, plasma donors, and the growing diversity of blood products needed for modern medical treatments.
Digital Age
Online campaigns and digital outreach transformed how National Blood Donor Month reached potential donors. Social media began connecting donor stories with wider audiences.
Modern Challenges
COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the resilience of volunteer blood donors. National Blood Donor Month adapted to celebrate donors who continued giving during unprecedented challenges.
National Blood Donor Month Today
More than 50 years after its establishment, National Blood Donor Month continues to play a vital role in America's healthcare system. Every January, we celebrate the heroes who roll up their sleeves to save lives.
Today's National Blood Donor Month embraces digital storytelling, celebrates diverse donors, and continues the foundational mission: honoring the volunteer spirit that keeps America's blood supply safe and available for all who need it.