March 17, 2020
United Way of Central Indiana is working closely with other community-based organizations to share their most immediate needs while dealing with the coronavirus while connecting volunteers to safe opportunities in their communities.
FOOD
HOUSING
VIRTUAL – Utilizing Technology
REMOTE – From your home
DONATE BLOOD
Versiti Blood Center of Central Indiana is accepting donations at their downtown center, located at 3450 N. Meridian St., from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday, or 6 a.m. to noon Sunday.
Donations are also accepted by appointment or from walk-ins from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the following blood centers:
The American Red Cross is also seeking donors. Potential donors are asked to make an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor smartphone app, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-733-2767.
Community members are encouraged to help support urgent community needs created by the Coronavirus outbreak, but we ask that you keep the following in mind:
Honor the public health recommendations. If you’re delivering supplies or food to a family or organization, follow the suggestion of social distancing – ring the doorbell and move away from the door, text them beforehand, etc.
Feel connected through solo volunteering. Even if you’ve signed up for a solo volunteering opportunity – like delivering food to someone who needs it or distributing door hangers with information – know that the people you’re helping appreciate your outreach and you’re helping people feel connected. You’re also staying true to the health department’s suggestion of social distancing.
Look for opportunities that are limited in size. Organizations know how important of a role they play in minimizing the spread of the disease. If you are committed to volunteering with others, look for a group size of 10 or less.
Stay home when you are sick. Of course, you should be doing all of the things to stay safe – hand washing, limiting exposure, etc. – but this one deserves a second shout out. If you are not feeling well, please stay home and get well. Thanks to people who think like you, there will be plenty of volunteers out there to help when needed.
Click HERE to find other available volunteer opportunities in the Central Indiana community.
If you have questions about volunteering, email us at volunteer@uwci.org.