Drive Coordinator Feature: Sriyaj Khadka

Sriyaj Khadka, a student at Euless Trinity High School, noticed a need in his community for a local blood drive. Along with other students at Trinity, he took it upon himself to learn how to host, market and call on his community to donate blood. As a successful drive host, Sriyaj shares his experience and hurdles with getting started, tips and advice about running a successful recurring drive, and why he’s passionate about hosting drives.

Get to know Sriyaj and learn more about what it takes to run a successful blood drive!

Where did you first hear about the possibility of hosting a blood drive?

I first learned about hosting a blood drive through researching opportunities to make an impact in my community. Throughout my research, I came across Carter BloodCare. It was a perfect chance to make a positive impact, so my mom and I emailed the organization and asked to collaborate. 

What made you want to host a blood drive? How did you feel before your first drive?

I wanted to make a difference, and after researching, hosting a blood drive went from being unrealistic to a goal I strived to achieve. Before my first drive, I was excited but also nervous. I wasn’t sure how successful the drive would be. Seeing so many donors made it incredibly rewarding.

Since that first drive, what have you learned about hosting drives, and what advice would you give to others?

I’ve learned that organizing a successful blood drive takes a lot of preparation and teamwork. The most important thing is to start early and be consistent. My advice is to take the first step and not look back because, in my experience, this was the hardest obstacle. Don’t be afraid to reach out to people. 

Why are you passionate about hosting drives?

I’m passionate about hosting blood drives because it gives me an opportunity to serve my community. You never know whose life your donation or your efforts might reach, but at least you know that it will reach someone. Knowing that people are willing to give their time and blood to benefit people in need is incredibly generous and considerate.

What would you say to someone who’s on the fence about hosting a drive, or about donating blood?

I would say, just do it. If you’re thinking about hosting a drive, just know there are many people who are willing to contribute to society. And if you’re able to donate blood, I strongly recommend you do. Your few minutes could mean so much to someone else.

You’ve saved hundreds, if not thousands, of lives by hosting blood drives. How does that make you feel, and do you ever think about how important that is?

It feels amazing and rewarding that my efforts have not gone to waste, and knowing that something I started as a community service project has helped so many people is extremely gratifying. Thinking about the number of people who have donated reminds me why this is so valuable in the real world. Being able to bring those people together is something I’m very proud of.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m extremely grateful to everyone who has supported my blood drives: my family, friends, school, community, and Carter BloodCare. This journey has taught me that starting something new will always be worth it, even if it doesn’t work out, because in the end, the effort is seen and you don’t think about what could’ve been but rather how you could have improved.

If you’re interested in hosting a drive, visit our host a drive page.