During this year’s Black History Month, members of Keurig Dr Pepper’s African American Employee Resource Group wanted to host a blood drive to promote awareness of sickle cell disease.

Welcomed by management, the idea was brought to life at the company’s Frisco, Texas, headquarters through the leadership of Juanita Allen, manager of HR operations - continuous improvement. Through a partnership with the American Red Cross, more than 40 employees showed up to donate blood, with a portion directed to local hospitals to help community members in need get essential lifesaving blood.

Allen wasn’t surprised by the generosity and support of her colleagues. “This is our community. This is KDP's community, and we're going to be here and provide that support in every way,” said Allen. 

The blood drive is just one example of Keurig Dr Pepper’s ongoing efforts to support its employees’ desire to give back and positively impact the surrounding community. Following the blood drive, Keurig Dr Pepper and the American Red Cross announced a multi-year partnership aimed at providing support to families and communities. Through the partnership, Keurig Dr Pepper will empower its employees and customers to support positive local impact through efforts such as volunteerism, blood drives, mobile food banks and emergency relief efforts. 

“Partnerships like the one with Keurig Dr Pepper are absolutely essential to our work. They ensure that we have the resources needed so that when there is an emergency, when people need blood, when somebody needs to be sheltered, when a hurricane lands on the Gulf Coast, we have what we need to be there in an instant,” said Ariane Einecker, chief development officer of the North Texas American Red Cross. 

Watch the video here to learn more about the efforts America’s beverage companies are taking to give back.