National Donor Day

Young man wearing a heart-shaped pin, holding a case with a heart on it, surrounded by doctors and nurses, hospital setting. — National donor day illustration

Get ready to step into the life-saving world of organ donation! National Donor Day, noted for hearing it's loudest cheers of support on its most chronicled day, February 14th, 2017, is more than just a day on the calendar. While some might be exchanging sentimental cards, our valiant organ donors are putting O. Henry's Magi to shame with their generous gifts of life. How's that for adding a beat to your romantic Valentine's Day?

When is Donor Day?

It's national donor day on the 14th February.

A Glimpse Into The Heart Of The Matter

Usually eclipsed by the shadow of roses and chocolates, National Donor Day takes pride in its place on February 14th. No, darling readers, that's no error. This delightful little date happens to coincide with the tidal wave of candy hearts known as Valentine's Day. But it is National Donor Day that can have the most significant impact on lives, potentially leading to many more days of love for transplant recipients.

A Day That Keeps on Giving

First introduced by Saturn Corporation and its United Auto Workers partner, with the support of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and many nonprofit health organizations in 1998, it is an annual celebration of the noble act of organ, eye, tissue, marrow, and blood donations. Even though it has been on the internet's lips 3,246 times, many are still working up the nerve to ink that donor card.

Life is a Gift, Pass It On

On February 14, 2017, National Donor Day saw a terrific spike in online chatter. It's as if the World Wide Web decided to perfect its gift wrapping skills all at once with 3,246 mentions! The heart-emblazoned posts on social platforms helped cast light on the invaluable service that millions of donors provide to those in need.

History behind the term 'Donor'

1667

The birth of the term

The term 'donor' originates from the Latin word 'donare,' which means 'to give as a gift.' In 1667, the term was first used in English to refer to someone who voluntarily gives or donates something, particularly money or blood.

1849

The rise of the philanthropist

During the mid-19th century, the term 'donor' gained popularity as philanthropy became increasingly recognized and celebrated. Wealthy individuals who generously donated money for charitable causes were referred to as 'donors.' This shift in perception highlighted the social importance of giving back to the community.

1907

Expanding the scope

In 1907, 'donor' expanded its scope beyond financial contributions. It began to include individuals who donated organs, tissues, or blood to save lives. This extension of the term reflected the growing understanding and recognition of the life-saving impact of medical donations.

1970

Foundations and major gifts

By the 1970s, the term 'donor' encompassed not only individual contributors but also organizations and foundations that provided substantial monetary support for various causes. The emergence of major philanthropic foundations like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Ford Foundation further solidified the significance of donors in shaping social change.

1999

Digital era and crowdfunding

The advent of the internet and digital platforms in the late 20th century revolutionized fundraising and donor engagement. Crowdfunding platforms allowed individuals to contribute small amounts of money collectively towards a cause they believed in. This democratization of giving expanded the concept of being a donor, emphasizing the power of community and small-scale contributions.

Did you know?

Fun fact, National Donor Day shares the stage with none other than Valentine's Day! Talk about a match made in heaven - a day dedicated to love, and a day celebrating the giving of life. Now, that's a power couple if we've ever heard of one.