Get Your Stick on Route 66 at blood drives

Our Blood Institute kicks off April and May donor campaign with Route 66 themed giveaways

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:06pm

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A minimalist neon outline illustration depicting the shape of a blood donation bag and medical tubing, glowing against a dark background in vibrant shades of red and orange, conceptually representing the energy and movement of the Route 66 blood drive campaign.The Route 66-themed blood drive campaign aims to inspire more donors to roll up their sleeves and help fuel the journey for patients in need.Okmulgee Today

Our Blood Institute is launching a new donor campaign that invites the community to make a stop along the iconic Route 66 and help fuel the journey for patients in local hospitals. From now through May 31, all successful blood donors will receive a limited-edition Route 66 themed t-shirt featuring the slogan 'Get Your Sticks on Route 66.'

Why it matters

The campaign aims to turn blood donation into an adventure, reminding donors that every stop makes a difference. By donating blood, people can help keep hospitals supplied with blood for trauma care, cancer treatments, surgeries and emergencies.

The details

Inspired by one of America's most legendary highways and celebrating 100 years of Route 66, the campaign encourages people to donate blood at donor centers or mobile blood drives. One donation can save up to three lives, and appointments can be made online or by phone, with walk-ins also welcome.

  • The campaign runs from now through May 31, 2026.
  • There will be a blood drive at GCTC on Wednesday, April 22 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • There will be a blood drive at American Legion Post 10 (730 W. 6th St., Okmulgee) on Friday, May 15 from 2-5 p.m. (walk-ins welcome)

The players

Our Blood Institute

A nonprofit organization that collects and distributes blood to hospitals in the local area.

Dr. John Armitage

The president and CEO of Our Blood Institute.

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What they’re saying

“Route 66 represents connection, movement and showing up for the journey. That spirit is exactly what our donors bring every day. By rolling up a sleeve, they help patients keep moving forward, even during the toughest stretches of the road.”

— Dr. John Armitage, President and CEO of Our Blood Institute

What’s next

Anyone who is healthy and 16 years old* or older can give blood. Donation typically takes only about an hour, and one donation saves up to three lives. Appointments to donate can be made online at obi.org or by calling 877-340-8777. Walk-ins are also welcome.

The takeaway

This campaign is a creative way to encourage blood donations and support local hospitals. By tapping into the iconic Route 66 theme, the Blood Institute is making the donation process feel more like an adventure, which could inspire more people to get involved and help save lives.