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Program
Mandy Church talked with Exchange about the National Marrow Donor Program, which she has been a member of for more than 16 years. She became involved because of family friends who had daughters in need of a marrow transplant, and she volunteered to see if she was a match.
The National Marrow Donor Program matches based on tissue type, an uninherited characteristic, much like eye or hair color. Individuals of the same ethnic origin may be more likely to match one another’s tissue type. There is a special need for those with a minority ethnic background to sign up to become potential donors. Just 25 percent of the 4 million registered potential donors are of African-American, Asian/Pacific Islander, American Indian/Alaska Native or Hispanic background.
Donors must be at least 18 and are no longer eligible when they reach the age of 61. So the National Donor Marrow Program is looking for new donors all the time. Also, people can opt out of the program at any time, so donors who signed up years ago may no longer wish to or may have health circumstances that preclude their ability to dontate; as well, at times donors can prove difficult to locate due to moving, etc.
Mandy passed out brochures at the meeting, and there is a lot of information about how to become a donor, what the process is, and a mail-in card to request more information. She also shared an informational video. If you’d like to talk to someone who’s been through the process, feel free to give Mandy a call at 522-2232. As she said, she’s ready to donate-they just need to tell her when and where!
Greeters
Kathy Small, Walla Walla Community College, and Nancy Riggle, Valley Residential Services
Pledge
Gretchen Tompkins, Children’s Home Society
Invocation
Karen Johnson, Walla Walla College
Announcements
Child Abuse Prevention Month
FYI April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. On Wednesday, April 10, 7 p.m., the Washington State Council on Child Abuse Prevention, the Walla Walla Council on Child Abuse Prevention, the Children’s Home Society and the Exchange Club of Walla Walla are planning to read a statement at the Walla Walla city council meeting. These agencies are looking for as much public support as possible. Please come to the meeting if you can.
Child Abuse Prevention Task Force
The Exchange Club of Walla Walla Child Abuse Prevention Task Force is seeking additional members who would be willing to help complete an assessment of child abuse prevention and neglect programs currently offered in the community. Responsibilities include attending a few committee meetings (usually during lunchtime) and interviewing local service agencies regarding their programs.
To join the Task Force or request additional information, please contact Dale Elmenhurst or Jeffrey Townsend.
Thanks!
A big thanks to all who helped out with the Easter Egg Hunt on March 30. A great turnout, and it couldn’t have happened without you!
The Children’s Forum
Remember the upcoming Children’s Forum, April 24 and 25. Contact Teri Barker for more information.
