Submitted Photo Officer Jordan Wilkes talks with a donor at the 2023 Battle of the Badges blood drive.

Law enforcement and fire departments in Minot will be facing off in the 2024 Battle of the Badges blood drive next week from May 20-23.

The blood drive will take place over the course of four days at The Grand Hotel ballrooms. Signs will guide donors to the correct location. Members from law enforcement, fire departments and Vitalant will be available to help and answer questions, as well.

Over the past several years, Vitalant has been working with police and firemen in North Dakota to encourage people to donate blood.

The Battle of the Badges blood drive happens every year at the beginning of summer. Donors tell the Vitalant representative whether they would like to donate their blood on behalf of law enforcement or on behalf of the fire department.

By the end of next Thursday, the tallies will be counted to figure out which department received the most donations. The team with the highest number of units will earn the traveling trophy and bragging rights until next year’s drive.

Sgt. Caisee Sandusky of the Minot Police Department noted more people often come forward to donate blood when they have a purpose or a reason to donate.

“I think people kind of overlook blood donations because you don’t know if you’re ever going to need it. You get in a serious accident or you’re sick or whatever, and it’s one of those selfless things of just giving, and maybe you need it in the future, maybe not. Or maybe it helps someone [else],” Sandusky said.

Donors also will receive giveaways for participating in the event.

Due to the nationwide shortage of blood, all donations must be blood donations. No monetary donations will be taken at this time.

To donate, an appointment can be made online or by phone with Vitalant. Walk-ins are welcome.

“It’s a nice little competition,” Sandusky said.