"Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party | 1-7pm

In addition to the blood drive, the block party will offer a range of engaging activities for attendees of all ages. Live music performances by local artists will fill the air from the outdoor stage featuring the talents of Freddie Blue & the Friendship Circle Band, Cardboard Cowboy, and the Doyle Cooper Jazz Band. Several local tie-dye artists will have their art on display for purchase, and a silent auction will be held for some premium pieces, some of which have been selected from George Porter Jr.’s personal collection. Children's activities will include a tie-dye station where participants can create their own unique tie-dye masterpieces, as well as a beading booth featuring workshops conducted by the Great Spirit Warriors tribe.

The "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party was originally organized last year to honor the heroic actions of Joe Cooper, a local tie-dye artist who was shot during a home invasion while protecting his wife Leslie Cooper, beloved WWOZ host and jazz singer. Thanks to the selfless act of a blood donation, Joe's life was saved, and now he is getting stronger every day. Last year's event was even able to raise enough blood to send to Texas in the aftermath of the tragic mass shooting in Uvalde, further demonstrating the power of collective action and compassion in the wake of tragedy. Recognizing the ongoing need for blood donations, particularly during the summer months when supplies tend to run low, the organizers have decided to make the "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party an annual event. Join us as we honor Joe Cooper, celebrate love and unity, and contribute to a cause that saves lives. Together, we can make a lasting impact. The "Heroes Wear Tie-Dye" Blood Drive and Block Party would not be possible without the generous support of individual donors and community partners.

To contribute, visit https://gofund.me/8c45cfd9 Sign up to donate blood at https://www.tbcdonors.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/49280