April is National Donate Life Month and the Cayuga County Department of Motor Vehicles is already working to celebrate while encouraging organ donor registration.
While the DMV will officially kick off its campaign to increase organ donors on April 1, Cayuga County Clerk Brian Scanlan told Finger Lakes News Radio that elements of the campaign are beginning early.
Beginning Monday and running through April 29, the DMV will sell raffle tickets for a 2024 Polaris Sportsman 570 ATV. Tickets will cost $20.00 and be available at the DMV or Cases Unlimted at 41 E Genesee St, Auburn, NY. The proceeds from the raffle will go to Donate Life, the nonprofit organization that works to increase the number of organ donors nationwide.
Along with the raffle, Brian Scanlan said that the department is holding an artwork contest for students in grades K-12. Artwork can be submitted until the close of business on March 28. Artwork will be displayed at the office throughout April with prizes awarded to the winner. This year’s theme is Donors are Superstars.
Scanlan added the DMV will also partner with Simple Roast Coffee Company to help raise money for the cause. On April 12 and 13, Simple Roast will donate 5% of sales from its Loving Life Latte specialty drink to Donate Life.
Donate Life Month is more than just about raising funds for the nonprofit; it’s also about increasing enrollment in the lifesaving program.
Just over 60% of eligible county residents are registered organ donors, according to Scanlan. His goal as clerk is to see that number increase.
“My goal in my first term here is to raise that to 80% of eligible people enrolling with Donate Life,” he said.
The department plans to announce more events for the month. Scanlan said updates will be posted on the DMV’s Facebook page.
Registering as an organ donor can be done any time of year simply by going to the DMV.
