Athens Hotels Host ‘Voluntary Blood Donation Days’ with Hellenic Red Cross
The Athens-Attica & Argosaronic Hotel Association (EXAA) recently organized a “Voluntary Blood Donation Days” event at select hotels in the Greek capital in collaboration with the Hellenic Red Cross.
This initiative was a significant step towards establishing a recurrent event to benefit both the local community and the hotel industry.
According to the association, the primary objective of the voluntary blood donation days was to provide critical assistance to fellow citizens in need, while also offering support to Athens hotel workers who may require blood units. In a world facing ongoing challenges, this joint effort sends a “strong message of love, compassion, and tangible aid,” EXAAA said.
The inaugural event set a precedent for future endeavors, aiming to become a regular occurrence for member hotels and its staff within EXAAA. Starting in 2023, participating hotels will take turns hosting the event.
The Polis Grand Hotel, owned by EXAAA President Lambrini Karanasiou-Zoulovits, and Airotel – Stratos Vassilikos, owned by EXAAA Secretary General Evgenios Vasilikos, were the inaugural hosts.
The Athens Attica and Argosaronic Hotel Owners’ Association, known for its history of voluntary actions, gathered a group of volunteer blood donors for this worthy cause. Participants, including hotel owners and employees from various establishments such as Polis Grand Hotel, Airotel Group, Athens Gate, Ergon House, NJV Athens Plaza, Melia and Achilleas, ranged in age from 18 to 65 years old. Many were already experienced blood donors, while others expressed their keen interest in becoming one.
By contributing their blood to the cause, the volunteers received the new electronic blood donor card, which can be accessed at www.bdr.gr. This card is not only a valuable asset for the individuals themselves but also a lifeline for those in need. When individuals register on the website, they gain access to the agency’s programs and benefits, further strengthening the voluntary blood donation efforts.