Generosity and a philanthropic spirit are hallmarks of the Alpha Phi sisterhood. Being that part of the high ideals of membership, the giving spirit Alpha Phis demonstrate is a quality we know extends beyond the campus grounds. The Alpha Phi Foundation cares about improving women’s heart health, and has supported education and research since our dedication to the cause in 1946. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year. Yet, only 1 in 5 women believe heart disease is her greatest threat. Cardiovascular diseases claim the life of a woman about every 80 seconds, but about 80 percent of cardiovascular diseases may be prevented. As frightening as those statistics are the risks of getting those diseases are even higher for African-Americans. African-American women have almost two times the risk of stroke than Caucasians, and more likely to die at an earlier age when compared to women of other ethnicities. Research studies have shown that regularly donating blood can lead to a massive reduction, nearly 88%, in heart disease among both men and women.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, we encourage you to safely donate on your own and at your convenience, while adhering to local health guidelines. Now more than ever, there is a critical need for blood donations. Blood donations are essential in many health emergencies and surgeries and all blood types are needed. The Red Cross follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. In accordance with CDC guidelines, all donors are required to wear a face mask. Donating blood is a quick and simple process that could mean the difference in life and death for patients needing blood transfusions due to an accident or medical procedure.

If you are well and able, pease consider rolling up your sleeves to save up to three lives!