Highland Christian Church in Bella Vista will host a blood drive on June 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in partnership with the Central Arkansas Blood Institute.
The drive takes place inside the church’s fellowship hall at 75 E. Lancashire Blvd. Appointments are encouraged but not required. Walk-ins will be welcomed as space allows. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh 110 pounds or more, and bring a valid photo ID.
“We’re really excited to offer this opportunity to our congregation and the broader Bella Vista community,” said Julie Martinez, a volunteer coordinator for the church. “It’s a simple way to make a direct impact, and we’ve seen people come together for this kind of need before.”
The Central Arkansas Blood Institute, which serves multiple counties across the region including Benton County, has faced ongoing demand for donations, especially during the summer months when collections typically slow down. One donation can save up to three lives, according to the organization.
Bella Vista Community Church is an evangelical, interdenominational congregation that regularly organizes community service events throughout the year. Past efforts have included food drives, coat collections, and local clean-up days. This blood drive marks the second time the church has partnered with the blood institute; the first was in late 2023.
Martinez said the church plans to provide light refreshments and a welcoming space for donors. Volunteers will be on hand to assist with registration and post-donation care. The goal is to collect at least 30 units during the four-hour window.
“It’s not just about giving blood,” said church member David Kimbrough, who has donated multiple times through previous church drives. “You’re showing up for your neighbor. That’s what this place is about—people taking care of people.”
Those interested in donating are encouraged to schedule an appointment online at centralarkansasblood.org or by calling 501-225-5527. First-time donors will need to complete a brief health screening before donation.
Bella Vista, one of the fastest-growing communities in Northwest Arkansas, has seen an increase in volunteer-driven initiatives over the past few years. Churches, civic groups, and local nonprofits have played a central role in organizing services that support both residents and neighboring areas.
The June 30 blood drive aligns with a broader pattern of faith-based organizations stepping up to meet regional needs. Earlier this month, Cross Church NWA in Bentonville hosted its annual volunteer day, focusing on service projects across the city. Other churches in the area have launched mentorship programs, after-school tutoring, and mobile food pantries.
Martinez said the church hopes to expand its outreach in the coming months, with conversations already underway about hosting a back-to-school supply drive and a community health fair. “This blood drive is one piece of a bigger picture,” she said. “We’re trying to build something sustainable and helpful for everyone who lives here.”
For those unable to donate but still wanting to help, the church is accepting volunteers to assist with setup, check-in, and cleanup on the day of the event. Interested individuals can contact the church office at 479-557-2288 or visit hccbv.org for more information.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
