Dedicated volunteer leads parish blood drive ministry to over 10,000-unit milestone

New York Blood Services recently recognized the blood drive ministry at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish in Sparta for reaching a milestone: it has collected more than 10,000 units of blood.

Mary Stanek has been the blood drive coordinator for 18 years. It has grown into the largest church-based drive in the region.

“The donors are passionate, the volunteers are always happy and welcoming, and the parish is a constant source of support,” said Stanek, according to St. Kateri.

Monthly, usually on the third Saturday, dozens of generous donors from the parish and surrounding community roll up their sleeves and give the precious gift of blood. The donations have totaled 3,062 units in the past three years.

Stanek became coordinator in 2006, after the death of longtime parishioner Hank Bartol. She considers herself blessed, humbled, and grateful to be part of the ministry.  

“Every once in a while, someone will come to the blood drive to say thank you. Thank you for the blood that saved their life. Thank you for the blood that got them through chemo. Thank you for the blood that gave a dad back to his family. This ministry is a life-changing gift to so many people,” said Stanek, according to St. Kateri.

Each month, Stanek’s responsibilities include coordinating with New Jersey Blood Services, advertising the drive, recruiting donors, encouraging volunteers, and preparing breakfast for donors to enjoy after giving blood.

“We are called by Christ to give of ourselves — our time, talent, and treasure — and to be of service to all,” said Stanek, according to St. Kateri. “The mission of the blood drive ministry is to give members of our faith community, as well as people of all faiths and backgrounds from the surrounding area, the opportunity to share the gift of themselves by donating blood.”

Stanek also receives help from volunteers of all ages — from elementary school to retirees. They help with the post-donation breakfast, welcoming donors with a smile, taking and delivering food orders, and pitching in with set up and clean up.

“The ministry couldn’t survive without them,” said Stanek, according to St. Kateri. “We keep the coffee coming, and we’re always happy to have an extra set of hands in the kitchen.”