Coinciding with the recent Sullivan Park Blood Drive on Jan. 18, the American Red Cross of the Western and Central New York region provided cups of hot chocolate to employees in FR Circle of Sullivan Park to help show their appreciation of the Corning community's support. 

The organization wanted to share its gratitude to the corporate sponsors and participants who have lead the way in supporting relief operations.

"Our intentions are to give a sincere thank you to everyone who has supported, volunteered, or been a donor to the American Red Cross," said Brain McConnell, executive director for the American Red Cross Finger Lakes Chapter. 

Corning has been a corporate sponsor for American Red Cross blood drives for over 35 years, continuing to be a significant donor in the region. It has been a mutually collaborative relationship for both organizations -- with the goal of making donating blood easy and efficient for employees. The Red Cross has been a core community aid organization that positively affects the community in many ways through blood donations, disasters support, and first-aid training.

"We are only able to accomplish our mission because of the leadership and generosity of the Corning Foundation and the employees of Corning Incorporated." said Brian McConnell.

Among the attendees at the hot chocolate event was corporate sponsor Dr. James Schuppert, who has been affiliated with the American Red Cross for the past 25 years. He joined several other corporate sponsors such as Charlie Craig, Polly Chu, and Gary Calabrese to show their support and appreciation to those who continue to participate in supporting the American Red Cross' mission.

"This effort has been made possible through the support of executive sponsors, drive leaders, volunteers, and blood donors and the long-term success of this relationship reflect the passion and drive of all the supporters." said Dr. James Schuppert.

Corning employees and the Corning Foundation are affiliated through their support of the life-saving blood program as well as health and safety training courses including First Aid/CPR/AED, and the generous financial support for local and national disaster preparedness and response.

"We often forget about the work that goes on behind the scenes to help people when there is a disaster," said Dr. Gary Calabrese. 

"Activities such as today's recognition help remind us of this and inspire folks to continue to help in a number of ways, including the very important blood drives." siad Dr. Gary Calabrese.

The Red Cross welcomes individual and peer groups of volunteers interested in supporting their mission. If employees are interested in volunteering with the American Red Cross, they can contact their local chapter or visit www.redcross.org and select 'volunteer,' or call Volunteer Specialist, Mary Ann Tozer at 607-936-2428 for more information.