[UomoNeroNero]

I donated blood for 25 years in Italy (I can’t anymore due to health reasons). Here we have a semi-public organization (AVIS - Italian Blood Volunteers Association) that handles donation and distribution. Zero stress, no “pushy” reminders, everything is completely voluntary. The trick is that by donating blood you receive your blood test results (a very comprehensive panel). It’s a mutually beneficial “do ut des” arrangement that is highly appreciated (and it helped me detect a serious issue at an early stage).

In addition, AVIS is a very community-oriented volunteer association that builds a sense of belonging and awareness.

Organized this way, the system works.

[jorvi]

We had the same system (Sanquin), they even have donation trucks that make the rounds through areas that don't have a donation clinic nearby. And they do give you a minor blood screening, and you get some good snacks after donating. But alas, they are also quite pushy with reminders :+)