BROOKLYN, Mich. (Aug. 31, 2021) — Michigan International Speedway (MIS) and Versiti Blood Center of Michigan will partner for the 20th year to host the Spirit of America Blood Drive at MIS on Sept. 11. The blood drive continues a tradition established Sept. 11, 2002 as a way for Michiganders to honor the victims of 9/11 and emergency responders who answered the call.
This year‘s event will run from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the MIS Ally Champions Club located above the grandstands. Donors will go through a health screening before entering the building and masks and social distancing will be mandated.
“Donating blood is a small way to be an everyday hero and to honor those who lost their lives on that tragic day 20 years ago,” said Dawn Kaiser, area vice president and director of donor services, Versiti. “Ensuring that blood is available during times of crisis is extremely important, and we are asking the community to not only join us in remembrance, but to considering giving the gift of lifesaving blood to help those in need.”
Appointments are recommended for those interested in donating blood, though walk-ups will be accepted. To schedule an appointment, call 866-642-5663 or visit Versiti online at www.versiti.org/september11. Donors should bring a valid photo identification with them, and plan approximately one hour for the entire process. As an appreciation, donors will receive an event t-shirt and meal after donating blood.
In conjunction with the Blood Drive, MIS will once again display nearly 3,000 American flags at Unity Field in Heritage Trail Lot 10 to honor 9/11 victims and first responders.
About Versiti Blood Center of Michigan
Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is a non-profit blood center headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich. Founded in 1955, it is the primary provider of blood products and services for more than hospitals throughout Michigan and is an established leader in quality and service. Versiti collects more than 114,000 units of blood each year throughout the state at eight permanent donation sites and more than 3,400 community blood drives. For more, visit versiti.org/Michigan
About Michigan International Speedway
Nestled in the lush Irish Hills of Southeastern Michigan, Michigan International Speedway (MIS) is NASCAR‘s Most Entertaining Track. The two-mile track — with 18 degrees of banking and 73-feet wide sweeping turns — has hosted the NASCAR Cup Series for more than 50 years. Beyond the on-track action, MIS offers a wide variety of family-friendly entertainment options for fans of all ages. MIS is the largest registered campground in the state of Michigan with nearly 9,000 campsites across 1,400-plus acres. In addition to the annual NASCAR weekend, MIS hosts non-racing events including Faster Horses Festival and Nite Lites. For more information, visit mispeedway.com.
Contact:
Josh Hamilton
NASCAR / MIS Communications
386-547-7205
