Isles celebrate their commitment to the community with a three-year partnership with the American Red Cross. Things kick off on Friday at the Islanders 2012 Draft Party with the first blood drive of the year. Photo by: Stacy Podelski

The New York Islanders and the American Red Cross announced on Monday a three-year partnership, as these two great organizations continue their commitment to saving lives. The Islanders will host four Red Cross blood drives over the next three years, potentially reaching more than 4,00 lives of hospital patients in need.

Fans can help to celebrate this partnership by saving a life before the Islanders 2012 Draft Party on Friday, June 22, 2012 for the first Islanders/American Red Cross Blood Drive at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Donors can drop by from 12-8 p.m. and those donating will receive a voucher for two tickets to a 2012-13 weeknight game of their choice (excluding the home opener or New York Rangers game).

“The American Red Cross hopes Islanders fans will join us in making the commitment to help save lives by coming out to donate blood. Due to hectic schedules and busy summer travel plans, blood donations can decline during this time of year. However, it is the perfect time of year to show your support and give back to the community.” said Donna M. Morrissey, Director of Communications, American Red Cross Blood Services – Northeast Division.

“It’s a thrill to begin this very special partnership with the Red Cross,” Dave Decina, Islanders VP of Corporate Partnership, said. “We’ve already held three very successful blood drives together thanks to a great number of our fans who made commitments to help save lives. What they’ve done and what the Red Cross continues to do is paramount. We’re looking forward to helping the Long Island community for many years to come with the Red Cross.”

The Red Cross blood drive will take place in the Lower Box Office of the Coliseum prior to the Islanders Draft Party. Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-RED-Cross or by visiting www.redcrossblood.org.

All donors will also be entered into a drawing for a grand prize package that includes (2) Islanders game tickets, overnight stay at the Long Island Marriott Hotel and Conference Center and breakfast at Prime Seasons Restaurant. In addition all donors will receive a voucher for a free entrée from Moe’s Southwest Grill and more!