Fresno Blood Center Offers Student Scholarships
The Central California Blood Center is awarding scholarships to students who help grow the local donor pool.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Scholarships
Live Poll
Should organizations offer scholarships to high school students in exchange for blood donations?
In 2025, the Central California Blood Center launched three scholarship programs to incentivize high school students to donate blood. These initiatives aim to boost donation levels as the organization looks to replace an aging generation of blood donors.
Why it matters
The program addresses a shrinking pool of older donors by building a culture of consistent, long-term blood donation among local high schoolers. By rewarding young people for their contributions, the center aims to secure a more sustainable supply of life-saving blood for the region.
The Central California Blood Center awarded $10,000 in scholarships across three distinct programs last year. Students can also earn recognition by donating blood at least four times before graduation.
The players
Central California Blood Center
This regional organization manages blood collection and distribution efforts across Central California.
Olivea Luna
She is a student organizer who hosted five blood drives last year to support the mission of the center.
The details
High school students interested in the programs can apply directly through the blood center website. Beyond financial awards, the organization recognizes frequent contributors with red cords or certificates, such as student organizer Olivea Luna, who hosted five successful drives last year with one event drawing over 50 donors.
Timeline
The Central California Blood Center launched three scholarship programs in 2025.
Culture Shift
This program aligns with the national decline in volunteer blood donors, as tracked by the American Red Cross. By gamifying the donation process, the organization is pivoting away from traditional reliance on aging demographics toward a younger generation of consistent volunteers.
Fresno area students can directly offset educational costs by participating in recurring blood drives through their high schools. Prospective donors should aim for at least four donations before graduation to qualify for recognition, helping to ensure the regional blood supply remains stable.
The takeaway
Engaging in community service early can provide both tangible educational financial support and life-saving impacts for the regional medical system. Students looking to participate should coordinate with their school leaders to organize or find upcoming local blood donation events.
Further reading
Find more local opportunities in our Scholarships section.
More information
For application details and drive schedules, visit the Central California Blood Center website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC30 Fresno.
Live Poll
Should organizations offer scholarships to high school students in exchange for blood donations?
