As if the simple task of donating blood isn’t enough Vitalant (formerly United Blood Services), Fountain Hills Noon Kiwanis and the Town of Fountain Hills have sweetened the pot.

Donors will “hear the sweet sound of saving lives” when they give blood Friday and Saturday, Nov. 16 and 17, at Fountain Hills Community Center. Vitalant is working with Phoenix Symphony, which will donate one ticket to a performance to each blood donor.

Appointments to give blood may be made now. Make appointments by calling Dr. Liz Smith, 480-837-2600, or 480-206-4785 or Paul Appeldorn, 480-836-8213. Reservations also may be made online at bloodhero.com and using the sponsor code “Kiwanis.” Walk-in donors also are welcome.

The blood drive will be held both days from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Community Center.

Being the longest extended holiday weekend of the year, the Thanksgiving holiday is one of the most difficult times to ensure Arizona patients have an ample supply of lifesaving blood transfusions.

Since the Thanksgiving partnership was established with The Phoenix Symphony in 2002, the annual campaign has grown to become one of Vitalant’s most popular and has inspired more than 72,000 people to donate blood.

“As we celebrate our health and well-being with family, it is important to remember that patients are relying on a plentiful blood supply so that they can celebrate another holiday with their families as well,” said Sid Lewis, Senior Director of Donor Recruitment for Vitalant’s Southwest Division.