A Legacy of Giving: The Success of RCJ’s Blood Donation Drive

Every meaningful legacy begins with a shared vision. For the Rotary Club of Jumeirah, that vision took shape when Rtn Rose Moraes and Rtn VP Dr Basel Radwan met with Interact President Adit Mital to set the annual goals of the Interact Club at DIA. During that conversation, an idea emerged that would strengthen service, leadership, and connection between Rotary and its sponsored youth club.

The suggestion was for the Interact Club to host the Rotary Club of Jumeirah’s legacy Blood Donation Drive at their school. The aim was clear. Increase engagement, deepen integration, and allow students to experience Rotary service in action. Adit immediately embraced the idea, recognizing its potential to unite students, parents, teachers, and Rotarians around a meaningful cause.

Soon after, representatives of the Rotary Club of Jumeirah, Rtn PP Musa Al-Sadoon, Rtn PP Tony Ebraheem, and Rtn VP Dr Basel Radwan, visited DIA to meet the Interact presidential team and school management. Together, they reviewed the Interact annual plan and agreed to host the club’s signature legacy project at the school, marking an important milestone in Rotary and Interact collaboration.

Behind the scenes, months of dedicated effort followed. Rtn PP Dr Bharat Butaney, the long-standing owner of this initiative, worked closely with Rtn VP Dr Basel Radwan to coordinate with DHA and DIA. With consistent support from the Interact Club at DIA, approvals were secured and every operational detail was carefully managed to ensure the drive could proceed as planned.

The success of the event was made possible by the exceptional organization of the Interact Club at DIA, under the supervision of Mr. Colin Leacy, a steadfast supporter of the Interact Club over many years. The students managed logistics, prepared the venue, and ensured all requirements were in place, setting the stage for a smooth and welcoming donation experience.

On the day of the drive, the school community came together in true Rotary spirit. Teachers, parents, students, and fellow Rotarians participated and donated blood, turning the event into a powerful display of service above self. Among those who volunteered and donated were Rtn P Albert Alterjman, Rtr P Mohammed Arar, Rtn Rose Moraes, Rtn Dr Nermine Raouf, Rtn Brigitte Richaud, Rtn Betul Bagdadi Tilley, along with many other committed Rotarians and Rotary friends.

The target was 50 accepted donations. The final result was 57 successful donations, exceeding expectations and reinforcing the impact of collaboration and shared purpose.

More than just a successful blood drive, this event stands as a testament to what Rotary, Interact, and supportive school communities can achieve together. It is a legacy project carried forward with heart, leadership, and a commitment to saving lives.

Article written by: Rtn Dr Basel Radwan VP & Youth Service Chair, RCJ 2025-2026

Interact & RYLA Country Chair, UAE 2025-2026