The Community Blood Center of the Carolinas (CBCC) is teaming up with the Scotch Irish Fire Department to host two blood drives in memory of Marcus “Marco” Kauffman, the Rowan County firefighter who passed away after being shot Dec. 2 during an apparent burglary.

The blood drives will be held on Friday, Jan. 17 and on Saturday, Jan. 18 from 11:30AM-4:30PM at the Scotch Irish Fire Department at 3220 Needmore Road in Woodleaf, N.C. The blood drives are part of a BBQ fundraiser that the Scotch Irish Fire Department is hosting both days from 11:00AM-8:00PM. To make a blood donation appointment, call 704-972-4700 or visit www.carolinadonor.org.

“Our hearts go out to the family, friends and fellow firefighters of Marco [Kauffman],” said Martin Grable, president and CEO of CBCC. “Holding these blood drives is a powerful way for the community to give back and support local patients while honoring the memory of this brave young man. Trauma patients, like Marco, frequently require blood transfusions as part of their treatment. Given the current blood shortage, local donations are imperative to keep the hospitals stocked with the necessary units.”

For donors who are unable to attend either blood drive, but want to honor the memory of Kauffman, there will be many mobile drives throughout the area this weekend. Donors can also donate at a CBCC donor center. For more information or to make an appointment, call 704-972-4700 or visit www.carolinadonor.org.