The leaves are changing colors and temperatures are dropping. One thing that remains the same is the constant need for blood. The American Red Cross asks donors to “Give Something That Means Something” for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card useable toward gas, rent, food or tickets to your favorite concert or sporting event.

The “Give Something That Means Something” promotion, which runs from October 1 through December 31, 2012, gives each person who presents to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross a chance to win a $1,000 American Express gift card.

“Donating blood is an opportunity for people to give the most important gift of all, the ‘Gift of Life,’” said Tim Ryerson, chief executive officer, American Red Cross, Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region. “The Red Cross depends on the generosity of volunteer donors to meet the needs of patients in our area and across the country.”

The Red Cross Tennessee Valley Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to patients in about 60 hospitals. Approximately 600 people need to give blood or platelets each week day to meet hospital demands.

Upcoming Blood Donation Opportunities:

Nov. 12 2-6 p.m.Chandlers Elementary School, 6000 Morgantown Rd., Russellville

For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org