CDCE Receives 2025 OBI Award

On May 8, 2025, the Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) was honored with the prestigious 2025 STAR Award in recognition of their remarkable year-over-year growth in blood donation collections at the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center in Muskogee, OK. This accolade celebrates the impressive achievements of the CDCE through their diligent efforts and partnerships.

In collaboration with Our Blood Institute (OBI), the CDCE hosted numerous blood drives, resulting in a significant increase in blood donations over recent years. In 2021, the CDCE facilitated the collection of 173 blood donations. By 2024, that number had dramatically increased to 373 blood donations. This notable rise is a testament to the dedication and coordination of the team at the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center, as well as the strong participation of the local community.

The Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System has set an ambitious goal of becoming a zero-utilization hospital, meaning it aims to donate as much blood as it utilizes annually. This vision underscores the importance of continuous blood donation efforts and community involvement to ensure a sustainable supply of blood for medical needs.

The exceptional teamwork within the Jack C. Montgomery VA Medical Center has been pivotal in enhancing employee engagement and contributing to the outstanding results seen in blood donation collections. The commitment and cooperation of the staff have played a crucial role in achieving these milestones.

In an effort to further support this initiative, we encourage those who lived overseas between 1980-1996 to consider donating blood. Recent changes in the vCJD (Mad Cow) restrictions may now allow more individuals to participate in lifesaving blood donations.

Help us spread the word and support our mission by donating blood and contributing to the health and well-being of our community.