The American Red Cross wants you to have some summer fun when you come in to help save a life by donating blood or platelets. Beginning May 24, and running throughout the month of June, the Red Cross will launch the Ticket to Summer Fun sweepstakes promotion.

Our Ticket to Summer Fun will include the following prize drawings:

* A $500 gift certificate for the airline or hotel of the winner's choice

* One drawing each week for weekend stays at the following resort locations: Seattle, Washington, Portland, Cannon Beach, Florence, and Hood River Oregon.

Promotion drawing entries will also be entered in the $2,500 Dream Vacation sweepstakes, which runs through September 5, 2012.

Summer is a time when blood collections typically decline due to heat, family vacations and multiple outdoor activities. Although summer is a busy time, the need for blood never stops. Blood is needed daily to treat cancer patients, bone marrow and organ transplant recipients, premature babies, and patients with various blood disorders. Behind each hospital patient is a circle of family and friends waiting for their unit of hope.

Making an appointment is easy, all you need to do is call 1-800 RED CROSS or make your appointment on-line at redcrossblood.org. The Red Cross has blood drives across the state and can reserve your appointment at the time and place most convenient for you. Don't miss out on your chance for a "Ticket to Summer Fun."

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.