Recently, our WVJC Charleston campus came together in a truly powerful way by hosting a blood drive for WV flood relief in partnership with the American Red Cross. The purpose behind the event was to support communities across West Virginia that have been severely impacted by recent flooding, leaving many in crisis and in need of urgent medical and logistical support, including a critically low blood supply.
At West Virginia Junior College, community isn’t just a buzzword—it’s one of the core values that shapes everything we do. Whether we’re preparing future nurses, supporting students through life’s ups and downs, or stepping up to serve our neighbors, WVJC takes pride in being a positive force in our communities. Continue reading this blog to discover how the event went!
Working Together for WV Flood Relief
The event was spearheaded by two of our incredible nursing instructors, Dawn Bolen and Tiffany Mitchell. With deep roots in both healthcare and community service, Dawn and Tiffany recognized that this event had the potential not only to save lives but also to bring people together with a shared sense of purpose. Their planning, organizing, and leadership were instrumental in turning an idea into a meaningful and well-executed event that left a lasting impact.
Their efforts were supported by an outstanding team from the American Red Cross, including Andrea Butcher and Kaylee Litteral. These two professionals brought not only expertise and efficiency but also compassion and kindness. From setup to final clean-up, they ensured every donor felt comfortable, safe, and appreciated. Their dedication reminded everyone in the room of the importance of this work and the value of partnerships like these.
Our campus lobby was transformed into a temporary donation center, where students, staff, faculty, and members of the community came through the doors throughout the day to roll up their sleeves—literally—and give the gift of life. For many, it was their first time donating blood. For others, it was a familiar and cherished act of service. Regardless of experience, the motivation was the same: to do something meaningful for others in a time of need.
The response was overwhelming. The blood drive exceeded expectations in both turnout and donations collected, offering a much-needed boost to the regional blood supply and providing a sense of hope to those affected by the floods.
What makes this event even more special is how perfectly it reflects the WVJC spirit. Our students are learning to become nurses, healthcare professionals, and frontline heroes—and this was a real-world opportunity for them to witness, firsthand, how healthcare extends beyond hospitals and classrooms. It’s about people. It’s about community. It’s about stepping in when others need you most.
We Support Each Other
As a career-focused college, we emphasize hands-on experience, compassion, and leadership in everything we teach—and events like this prove that our students and staff are living those values every day. Whether it’s through clinical rotations, classroom discussions, or community service projects like this blood drive, we are proud to develop graduates who not only have the skills to succeed but also the heart to serve.
We are incredibly proud of the Cross Lanes campus and everyone involved in making this event a success. From the donors who gave selflessly, to the volunteers who helped organize and promote the event, and to the faculty who inspire action through leadership—thank you.
This is what it means to be part of the WVJC family. We show up. We support each other. And we always look for ways to make a difference. Remember: even small acts—such as giving blood—can have a profoundly life-changing impact.
Join the WVJC Community
Continue your education with West Virginia Junior College. WVJC offers several healthcare training programs, such as nursing, practical nursing, respiratory therapy, medical assisting, medical coding, medical office administration, healthcare administration, pharmacy technician, and dental assisting. Request information today to learn more!