Whether you are a diehard NASCAR fan, a loyal Red Cross blood donor or just an interested bystander looking to help save a life, the Red Cross invites you to participate in the second annual Red Cross Racing program. This nationwide initiative is designed to raise awareness about the ongoing need for blood and to thank blood donors through a racing-themed donor rewards program.

Leading the team again this year is Red Cross blood donor and NASCAR driver Greg Biffle, sponsored by 3M and Roush Fenway Racing. You can be part of the team simply by going to redcrossracing.com and signing up. A local blood drive will be held on Aug. 3 from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the AMVETS Post 80 building. For information, call Wanda Meyers at 556- 3338.

Last year, in the first year of the program, more than 28,000 people joined Red Cross Racing, resulting in 22,500 blood donations. This year, the program offers new and exciting rewards for giving blood and/or platelets and recruiting others to donate and help save lives. Red Cross Racing members will have a chance to get points for blood donation activities and exchange them for NASCAR-themed prizes, such as limited edition die-cast cars.

Additionally, all Red Cross Racing drive donors that report their donations online at redcrossracing.com will receive a chance to win a trip to the Labor Day race in Atlanta. This prize package includes VIP tickets to the race as well as airfare and hotel. To be eligible, donations must have taken place between May 22 and Aug. 16.

Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines; it's Red Cross Racing time again!

Krystin Dunahoo Donor Recruitment representative

American Red Cross