In the winter of 2006 with the help of a community grant the Eye Bank began partnering with hospitals to recognize donor families and transplant recipients during half time of high school basketball games. Since then, dozens of communities have been reached with 186 donors, donor families, and transplant recipients honored. These programs have proved to be worthwhile events in acknowledging donor families while educating and raising awareness on the needs and benefits of donation.

Thank you to the University of Sioux Falls, Northern State University, SD School of Mines, and Mount Marty College for your hospitality. Thank you to the local Lions clubs of Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Yankton. Your eagerness “To Serve” is never ending. And to our hospital partners Sanford Health, Avera St. Lukes, Rapid City Regional, and Avera Sacred Heart; the gift of donation begins with you and we thank you.

To bring a community program to your area for the 2010/2011 basketball season please contact Brandy Thompson.