Everything You Need to Know About the All American Blood Drives
The All American Blood Drives are OK Blood Donor’s largest annual summer campaign, held every year across Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas. This patriotic celebration of giving brings blood donation directly into communities — from OKC malls and Tulsa stadiums to small-town fire stations and military bases.
Why Oklahoma Needs Your Blood Every Summer
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion. Oklahoma’s hospitals require 800+ units of blood every single day to serve trauma patients, surgical cases, cancer treatments, and chronic conditions. Summer is historically the most challenging season for blood banks — school’s out, families travel, and regular donors miss their appointments.
The All American Blood Drives are specifically designed to bridge this critical summer gap. With community events across three states, OK Blood Donor collects thousands of life-saving units during the period when supply dips lowest.
How It Works
- Find a drive near you — browse the schedule below or book through the scheduling form
- Show up or walk in — appointments are encouraged but never required
- Complete a mini-physical — quick pulse, blood pressure, temperature, and hemoglobin check (5 minutes)
- Donate blood — the actual draw takes just 8–10 minutes
- Enjoy your snacks and gifts — rest for 10–15 minutes, grab refreshments, and pick up your free t-shirt, camp chair, and theme park voucher
One Donation = Three Lives Saved
Your single pint of whole blood is separated into three components — red blood cells (for trauma and surgery), platelets (for cancer patients), and plasma (for burn victims and bleeding disorders). Each goes to a different patient. That means one donation can directly impact three families in Oklahoma hospitals.
Blood donated at any Oklahoma All American Blood Drive stays local. It goes directly to hospitals across Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas — serving your neighbors, coworkers, and community members.
Eligibility at a Glance
- Must be at least 16 years old (parental consent required for age 16)
- Weigh at least 110 pounds
- Be in general good health and feeling well on the day of donation
- Have not donated whole blood in the past 56 days
- Have a valid photo ID
Not sure if you qualify? Call OK Blood Donor at 📅 Walk-in Info (opens in new tab) or check our full eligibility requirements.
Tips for a Great Donation Experience
- Eat a healthy, iron-rich meal 2–3 hours before (spinach, beans, lean meat)
- Drink plenty of water — aim for 16 oz extra the morning of your appointment
- Avoid fatty foods (they can interfere with blood testing)
- Get a full night’s sleep the night before
- Wear a shirt with sleeves you can roll up easily
- Bring your photo ID and donor card if you have one