CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY BY DONATING BLOOD
First Citizen Employees Give Back
MANSFIELD, PA— First Citizens Community Bank employees, Matt Lundgren and Amy Augustine not only serve the financial needs of the Mansfield community, but also contribute to the physical health of the region. As long-time blood donors, they are regular faces at Community Blood Bank (CBB) drives, where donations directly influence local blood supply.
“Giving blood is a good way to help the community. Plus, the snacks are good here,” Lundgren said with a laugh. Lundgren, who works in the Trust Division, has been donating blood since he was 18-years-old. “I remember donating blood after I graduated from high school,” he says. “It was something that was important to me.” He even encourages others to give the precious gift of life.
“About four years ago, Matt asked me to donate,” says Augustine. “He said we could go to the drive over our lunch break. I didn’t hesitate.” For her, the decision was personally important.
“My son, Bryan, was ten-years-old when he was first diagnosed with cancer. I know how important blood donations are,” she says. “He had hundreds of transfusions. He is doing very well now and is a freshman in college.” Augustine added that the entire process takes less than an hour.
Lundgren added, “There are a lot of kids out there like Bryan. Every donation helps them, and in my book—that is wonderful.”
Blood donations not only affect the lives of cancer patients, but they can help trauma victims, newborn infants and surgical patients. Eligible donors should be healthy, over 110 pounds, and be at least 17 years of age. In addition, a 56-day time period is required from previous donations. Donors are encouraged to eat a nutritious meal within approximately four hours prior to giving blood. Free snacks and beverages are offered following a donation to replenish a donor’s energy.
“Matt and Amy are some of the most kind and giving individuals,” commented First Citizens CEO and President, Randall E. Black.” “They gift their time to support their neighbors and friends while supporting organizations vital to their community.”
“Both Matt and Amy put the Unity in Community,” says Lora Cope, Mobile Drive Coordinator for the CBB. “Together we are impacting lives. We are extremely thankful for their dedication to serving others.
They are part of our family.”
