American Red Cross

PEORIA, Ill. (February 5, 2008) –  The Peoria-based Heart of America Region of the American Red Cross Blood Services recently announced Shelly Heiden as CEO of the organization. A Red Cross employee for more than 20 years, Heiden has a wealth of experience and knowledge of the blood banking industry.

A Peoria native, Heiden holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Bradley University. During her time with the Red Cross, she has been human resources director, support services director, education manager and most recently, collections director. As collections director, Heiden was responsible for overseeing the region’s collections department including whole blood, automated double red cell and apheresis collections. In 2007, she received the Manager’s Award for Employee Excellence.

“Working for the American Red Cross is extremely rewarding,” said Heiden. “Seeing individuals from our communities selflessly give of themselves through blood donations or volunteer work is heartwarming; and because of this our patients receive the life-giving blood that they truly need.” 

In addition to her duties at the Red Cross, Heiden is active in the community. She currently serves on the Bradley University Alumni Association National Board as chair of the awards committee. She is also a past president of the Junior League of Peoria and a graduate of the Chamber of Commerce Community Leadership School.  

The Heart of America Region supplies blood products and specialized laboratory services to more than 40 hospitals in Illinois and Missouri. In a lifesaving partnership with more than 400 employees, 80,000 volunteer blood donors and 2,500 volunteer blood drive coordinators, the Heart of American Region organizes at least 3,000 blood drives in an effort to collect approximately 140,000 pints of blood each year for patients in need. The Heart of America Region is one of four regions that make up the Mid-America Division of the American Red Cross Blood Services.

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1.800.GIVE.LIFE (1.800. 448.3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.org to make an appointment or more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be at least 16 years old with a signed consent form in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska and must weigh at least 110 pounds.