American Red Cross Blood Drive

press release: Overture Center for the Arts is opening its doors to the public for the first time since March 2020—after 410 days of closure—to host an American Red Cross Blood Drive. The one-day event, which promotes healing our community, friends and neighbors, takes place in Overture Hall Lobby on Tuesday, April 27, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“Overture Center is pleased to support the American Red Cross in its mission to help people in need,” said Jacquie Goetz, VP of operations at Overture Center. “By opening our doors for this drive, we hope to make it easier for people working, living and visiting downtown Madison to donate blood and, ultimately, help save lives. The acts of kindness and generosity on part of both the blood donors and the American Red Cross are inspirational.”

Overture will work closely with the American Red Cross and local health officials to ensure all health and safety protocols are carefully in place and followed. Appointments are required and can be scheduled online.

Red Cross staff already follow the highest standards of safety and infection control. In addition to standard procedures, they have implemented additional precautions:

·         Checking temperatures of staff and donors before entering a drive to make sure they are healthy.

·         Providing hand sanitizer for use before the drive, as well as throughout the donation process.

·         Following social distancing between donors including entry, donation and refreshment areas.

·         Ensuring race masks or coverings are worn by both staff and donors.

·         Routinely disinfecting surfaces, equipment and donor-touched areas.

After the blood drive, Overture Center will remain closed to the public until it is safe to reopen. An opening date has not been determined at this time.