IOWA LAKES TO HOST BLOOD DRIVE IN MEMORY OF CARTER “TATER” JOHNSON
Estherville, Iowa (April 20, 2026) – Iowa Lakes Community College will host a community blood drive in partnership with the American Red Cross on Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Christensen Building on the Estherville campus.
This special blood drive is being held in memory of Carter “Tater” Johnson while helping address the ongoing need for blood donations in our region. The event provides an opportunity for the Iowa Lakes family and the surrounding community to honor Carter’s memory in a meaningful way by giving the gift of life.
Individuals who would like to schedule an appointment to donate should call 1-800-RED-CROS, search “ForTater” at RedCrossBlood.org or at this direct link. They may also contact Jody Condon at 712-362-7990 or jcondon@iowalakes.edu.
“This blood drive gives our campus and community an opportunity to come together in remembrance and support others in need,” said Troy Larson, Vice President of Student Services and Athletic Director at Iowa Lakes Community College. “Carter meant so much to so many. Honoring his memory by helping save lives reflects the strength, compassion and unity of the Iowa Lakes family.”
Blood is a perishable product that can only come from volunteer donors. With someone in the United States needing blood every two seconds, blood supplies must be continually replenished to ensure hospitals are prepared before emergencies occur.
Community members are encouraged to donate and help ensure that patients in local hospitals have blood readily available when it is needed most. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative.
About Iowa Lakes Community College
Iowa Lakes Community College is dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that empowers students to reach their goals and strengthens the communities it serves. With campuses in Estherville, Emmetsburg, Spencer, Spirit Lake, and Algona, Iowa Lakes offers career and technical programs, transfer pathways, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities designed to meet regional workforce needs.