How You Can Help

Become a Pledged Organ and Tissue Donor

LEARN . DISCUSS . DECIDE . TELL OTHERS

There are very few decisions which people make in their lifetime that are as personal and important as donating organs and tissues to help another human being.

At the time of death, families may be asked to make a decision regarding this donation. Take matters into your own hands now by educating yourself and talking with your family about your decision.

The organs, eyes and tissues we donate may:
  GIVE added years of life to another
  IMPROVE someone's quality of living
  HELP scientists find cures for diseases

Who can pledge to donate?

Everyone, regardless of age and previous health! The medical condition of the organs and tissues at the time of death determine what can be donated.

But what about . . .

Costs
None! There are never costs to the organ or tissue donor's family for the donation.
Religious concerns
All major religions encourage donation. Include your spiritual leader in your decision making process.
Funeral arrangements
Donation is a surgical procedure respectful of the body. There is no need to change your desired funeral arrangements. An open casket service is possible in most circumstances.

How to become a pledged donor . . .

Enroll in the New York State Donate Life Registry.

Click here to download a Uniform Donor Pledge Card, complete it and mail it back to:
   Rochester/Finger Lakes Eye & Tissue Bank
   524 White Spruce Blvd.
   Rochester, NY 14623
To enroll on-line visit www.donatelifenys.net

Tell your family and your doctor of your intentions to be a donor.

For more information visit the NY State Department of Health's website at www.health.state.ny.us

Volunteer

Volunteers are needed throughout the year to assist RETB/FLETB staff with the outreach needed to ensure that others are given the chance for a brighter tomorrow. Whether it’s a one-time commitment or an ongoing one, we need your help!

Health Fairs and Community Events
Volunteers are needed to staff the RETB/FLETB display and information table at health fairs in schools, workplaces and at many community events throughout our service region during the year. Training is provided.

Speakers Bureau
RETB/FLETB speakers help teach the general public about organ and tissue donation by sharing their personal stories about transplantation or donation. Speakers talk with students, civic organizations, church groups, at community events and corporations about the need for organ and tissue donation and the importance of sharing your decision with family members.

Administrative/Clerical
Assist staff in filing, database entry, and organizing materials.

Financial Gifts

Bequests
Making a bequest to the RETB/FLETB can help future generations. For more information on how to make a bequest, please call our office.

Rosario J. Guglielmino Research Fund
The board of directors established this fund in 1993 in honor of "Ross" J. Guglielmino, co-founder and former director and president of the Rochester/Finger Lakes Eye & Tissue Bank. Grants will be given to junior investigators to support research in the field of corneal transplantation.

Wills and Planned Giving
Take care of causes that reflect your values and affect your world. Call our office for your free “WILLpower” booklet today. This booklet provides information about the benefits of making a will and how to use planned giving as a way to help make a difference in your community.

Individual Contributions
Gifts of caring that you can give on any occasion – a birthday, an anniversary, or a special holiday. A contribution in honor of or in memory of a loved one, special person or relative can be made to the RETB/FLETB at anytime.

Sponsorships
The RETB/FLETB welcomes corporations and businesses, big and small, to sponsor agency events. Those that sponsor events are acknowledged in the agency newsletter TISSUES and on the day of the event with on-site recognition.

Please call (585) 272-7890, (800) 568-4321 or e-mail us at info@rehpb.org to discuss specific ways that you can help.

Donate a Car

You can donate your car, truck, boat, RV or motor home to the RETB/FLETB and help give others a brighter tomorrow. The RETB/FLETB will receive the net proceeds after auction. Your donation provides materials for our public and professional education programs that raise awareness of the need for and benefits of organ, eye and tissue donation. Please check with your accountant regarding a possible tax-deduction for your donation and the criteria for doing this.

It’s easy to donate!
Call Insurance Auto Auction at (585) 426-1030 and make sure you tell them you would like to donate your car to the Rochester Eye & Tissue Bank.

Write a Letter to
My Donor Family / Recipient

RETB/FLETB facilitates the exchange of anonymous letters between donor families and recipients. Contact Linda Fraser at (585) 272-7890 or 1-800-568-4321 to discuss your particular need.