Purpose
Blood Typists help extend the reach of Memorial Blood Centers by providing fingerstick blood typing tests at community events, workplaces, campuses, and drives. Through skilled testing and warm community engagement, they help people learn their blood type, spark interest in donation, and strengthen community engagement with our lifesaving mission.
Key Responsibilities
· Represent Memorial Blood Centers with professionalism and warmth at community events
· Perform fingerstick blood typing tests accurately, following MBC protocol and safety procedures
· Wear PPE and follow all safety and infection control guidelines at every step of testing
· Put participants at ease and explain the testing process in clear, simple terms
· Share accurate information about blood type and blood donation eligibility
· Provide feedback from events and conversations to help MBC understand community needs and opportunities
· Serve as a positive, mission-driven representative for MBC in your campus or community network
What We’re Looking For
· A friendly, confident communicator who enjoys engaging with people and representing a cause
· Comfort speaking with individuals and small groups, including tabling and outreach
· Reliability and professionalism, especially when working independently at community events
· Comfort with fingersticks and blood, and the ability to stay calm and reassuring while collecting a sample
· Willingness to follow a set procedure precisely, including proper PPE use, every time
· Ability to learn and share key messages about blood donation and blood typing
· Willingness to travel locally within your community
· Completion of a background check is required (provided at no cost to you)
· Completion of blood typist training and certification is required (provided by MBC)
Time Commitment
· Most community events and outreach visits last 2 to 4 hours
· We ask volunteers to commit to at least one activity per month, though more involvement is always welcome
· Additional opportunities arise during high-need seasons or large community campaigns
Training and Support
You’ll receive hands-on training and certification in fingerstick blood typing, PPE and safety protocol, talking points, orientation to MBC’s mission and messaging, shadowing opportunities, and ongoing support from staff.
Impact
As a Blood Typist volunteer with Memorial Blood Centers, you help people learn their blood type and take a meaningful first step toward becoming a donor. Your skill and calm, steady presence make that connection possible.
