The drive is being sponsored by Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and the Criminal Justice Association at the University in partnership with the American Red Cross.

The drive is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 9, 10, 12 and 13 in the University Center Ballroom. On the anniversary of Sept. 11, extended hours of 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. will be available for those wishing to donate. The Sept. 11 blood drive also will be held in the University Center.

Dr. John Wade, chair of the Department of Criminal Justice, said that last fall, "in the wake of the September 11th tragedy, donations skyrocketed and blood supplies reached some of their highest levels in history. Unfortunately, as some of the emotion has subsided, donations have dropped and supplies once again have become precarious.

"The need for a well-stocked blood bank is continuous," he added. "It does not revolve around a single horrific incident. The need for blood is there 365 days a year. If September 11th serves as a reminder, that's good."

In order to boost donations on Sept. 11, a friendly "bleed for need" competition is planned that day among area criminal justice agencies and service providers. The agency with the highest proportion of donations will receive a plaque, special recognition and other prizes.

Wade said that while this special effort is being planned for Sept. 11, he encourages people who cannot give blood that day to participate on one of the four other days that week.

"The importance of the 'gift of life' well exceeds the competition on September 11," he said.

For more information about the blood drive, call David Palmer at the American Red Cross at (573) 339-1822.