Events From: Gift of Life Michigan

Volunteer: In-Person Volunteer Training West Michigan (Volunteer Onboarding, Emergency Preparedness Training, and Guided Galaxy Digital Training.)

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Volunteers,

You are all invited to participate in an in-person volunteer training in West Michigan on June 12th, 10am-2pm.

in the training we will cover:

New Volunteer Training and quizEmergency Preparedness and quizGalaxy Digital (How to use the volunteer platform)

We do not currently have an address for the training, please keep checking back fpr those details, otherwise once a location is set we will communicate that out via email and or phone call.

If you are interested in attending, please sign up by registering for this event. 


Program: Community Events

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Volunteers,

You are all invited to participate in an in-person volunteer training in West Michigan on June 12th, 10am-2pm.

in the training we will cover:

New Volunteer Training and quizEmergency Preparedness and quizGalaxy Digital (How to use the volunteer platform)

We do not currently have an address for the training, please keep checking back fpr those details, otherwise once a location is set we will communicate that out via email and or phone call.

If you are interested in attending, please sign up by registering for this event. 


Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jun 12, 2026

Zip Code: 49501

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: In-Person Volunteer Training Ann Arbor (Volunteer Onboarding, Emergency Preparedness Training, and Guided Galaxy Digital Training.)

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Volunteers,

You are all invited to participate in an in-person volunteer training at our office in Ann Arbor on February 27th, 10am-2pm.

in the training we will cover:

New Volunteer Training and quizEmergency Preparedness and quizGalaxy Digital (How to use the volunteer platform)


If you are interested in attending, please sign up by registering for this event. 


Program: Community Events

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Volunteers,

You are all invited to participate in an in-person volunteer training at our office in Ann Arbor on February 27th, 10am-2pm.

in the training we will cover:

New Volunteer Training and quizEmergency Preparedness and quizGalaxy Digital (How to use the volunteer platform)


If you are interested in attending, please sign up by registering for this event. 


Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Feb 27, 2026

Zip Code: 48108

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Donate Life Community Breakfast- Grand Blanc

Save the Date!

Gift of Life's Flint Community Action Group is hosting the second annual Donate Life Community Breakfast to inspire, educate and bring people together to celebrate the loving gift of organ, eye and tissue donation.

When: Thursday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to Noon

Where: Captain's Club Golf and Event Center, Grand Blanc

Who: Everyone is welcome!

Cost: This event is free to the community

Donate Life Community Breakfast Flyer

Program: Annual Events

Save the Date!

Gift of Life's Flint Community Action Group is hosting the second annual Donate Life Community Breakfast to inspire, educate and bring people together to celebrate the loving gift of organ, eye and tissue donation.

When: Thursday, April 23 from 10 a.m. to Noon

Where: Captain's Club Golf and Event Center, Grand Blanc

Who: Everyone is welcome!

Cost: This event is free to the community

Donate Life Community Breakfast Flyer

Program: Annual Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 23, 2026

Zip Code: 48439

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Michigan Donor Family Council Annual Axe Throwing- Westland

Hello Gift of Life Michigan,

On Sunday, February 22, from 2:00pm  to 5:00 p.m., The Michigan Donor Family Council hosts the fourth annual "Axe Throwing" event at The Legendary Axe in Westland, featuring axe throwing, darts, air hockey, and foosball.

Please see the sponsorship letter below.

Dear Donation Supporter:

The Michigan Donor Family Council (MDFC) is excited to invite you to our fourth annual "Axe Throwing."
Event" at – The Legendary Axe in Westland! Join us for a fun-filled afternoon on Sunday, February 22, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., featuring axe throwing, darts, air hockey, foosball, and a shared celebration of organ, eye, and tissue donation and transplantation. This event is open to all guests aged 14 and older.

Event Details:
Name: The Legendary Axe
Event Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
Event Time: 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Location: 37550 Cherry Hill Rd. Westland, MI 48185

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the MDFC has honored our loved ones who donated and celebrated recipients whose lives were saved and those waiting for a life-saving transplant. We have advocated for the importance of donation for over 20 years, a testament to our unwavering commitment to this cause.

We are contacting you because your involvement can make a meaningful difference. Enclosed is a sponsorship packet outlining several ways you can contribute, including sponsorship and donating an item for our raffle. Sponsorships can be submitted by mail or online at mdfc8.org. If you prefer, we’d be happy to pick up any raffle donations you’d like to contribute.

Your commitment to helping save and improve lives through donation and transplantation is deeply appreciated.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us.

The Michigan Donor Family Council is proud to be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a 100 percent giving board; all our members are volunteers.

Sincerely,

Walt Herndon and Marge Del Greco

Walter O Herndon, MDFC, CFO Marge Del Greco, MDFC, Vice President
Donor Family Recipient & Donor Family
14125 Terrace Court 7240 Green Farm Rd
Plymouth, MI 48170 West Bloomfield, MI 48322
(313) 600-2566 (248) 767-0130
walt@mdfc8.org marge@mdfc8.org


Sponsorship Opportunities

__________ Axe Masters $2,500 ____________ Axe Majors $1,500
10 tickets to the event. 8 tickets to the event.
Thank your Business on our Facebook page. Thank your business on our Facebook page.
Business Logo and name on our website. Business Logo and name on our website.
__________ Battle Axes $1,000 ____________ Perfect Axes $500
6 tickets to the event. 4 tickets to the event.
Thank your Business on our Facebook page. Thank your business on our Facebook page.
Business Logo and name on our website. Business Logo and name on our website.
___________ Axe Fusions $250
2 tickets to the event.
Thank your Business on our Facebook page.
Business Logo and name on our website.

Sponsorship / Donation Form

Business Name/Person: ______________________________________________________________

Contact Name (If different) ______________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________________________

Email address: ________________________________________________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________________________________________________________

Donated Item: _______________________________________________________________________

Estimated value: ____________________________________________________________________

Payment Options:
Venmo: 313-549-0415
Credit Card: Visit our website at www.mdfc8.org
Check: ☐ Check enclosed (payable to Michigan Donor Family Council)
Mail checks and the form to:
MDFC c/o Patty Jo Herndon
14125 Terrace Court, Plymouth, MI 48170

Tax-Deductible Donation:
Your contribution is fully tax-deductible under the law.
MDFC's Tax ID # is 33-1071674
www.mdfc8.org

Please feel free to share them with friends, family, and contacts who may be interested in supporting these type of events. We want  this to be a resounding success, and that truly takes all of us working together.

Thank you for all you do to support the MDFC.

Patty Jo  

Patricia Jo Herndon, Donor Sister/Donor Aunt Co-Founder & CEO, Michigan Donor Family Council

Immediate Past Chair, Eversight Board of Directors

C: 313-549-0415

Organ Donation Saves and Enhances Lives

Visit us at mdfc8.org

Visit Eversight at eversightvision.org

Follow MDFC on Facebook

Program: Community Events

Hello Gift of Life Michigan,

On Sunday, February 22, from 2:00pm  to 5:00 p.m., The Michigan Donor Family Council hosts the fourth annual "Axe Throwing" event at The Legendary Axe in Westland, featuring axe throwing, darts, air hockey, and foosball.

Please see the sponsorship letter below.

Dear Donation Supporter:

The Michigan Donor Family Council (MDFC) is excited to invite you to our fourth annual "Axe Throwing."
Event" at – The Legendary Axe in Westland! Join us for a fun-filled afternoon on Sunday, February 22, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., featuring axe throwing, darts, air hockey, foosball, and a shared celebration of organ, eye, and tissue donation and transplantation. This event is open to all guests aged 14 and older.

Event Details:
Name: The Legendary Axe
Event Date: Sunday, February 22, 2026
Event Time: 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Location: 37550 Cherry Hill Rd. Westland, MI 48185

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the MDFC has honored our loved ones who donated and celebrated recipients whose lives were saved and those waiting for a life-saving transplant. We have advocated for the importance of donation for over 20 years, a testament to our unwavering commitment to this cause.

We are contacting you because your involvement can make a meaningful difference. Enclosed is a sponsorship packet outlining several ways you can contribute, including sponsorship and donating an item for our raffle. Sponsorships can be submitted by mail or online at mdfc8.org. If you prefer, we’d be happy to pick up any raffle donations you’d like to contribute.

Your commitment to helping save and improve lives through donation and transplantation is deeply appreciated.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please don't hesitate to contact us.

The Michigan Donor Family Council is proud to be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a 100 percent giving board; all our members are volunteers.

Sincerely,

Walt Herndon and Marge Del Greco

Walter O Herndon, MDFC, CFO Marge Del Greco, MDFC, Vice President
Donor Family Recipient & Donor Family
14125 Terrace Court 7240 Green Farm Rd
Plymouth, MI 48170 West Bloomfield, MI 48322
(313) 600-2566 (248) 767-0130
walt@mdfc8.org marge@mdfc8.org


Sponsorship Opportunities

__________ Axe Masters $2,500 ____________ Axe Majors $1,500
10 tickets to the event. 8 tickets to the event.
Thank your Business on our Facebook page. Thank your business on our Facebook page.
Business Logo and name on our website. Business Logo and name on our website.
__________ Battle Axes $1,000 ____________ Perfect Axes $500
6 tickets to the event. 4 tickets to the event.
Thank your Business on our Facebook page. Thank your business on our Facebook page.
Business Logo and name on our website. Business Logo and name on our website.
___________ Axe Fusions $250
2 tickets to the event.
Thank your Business on our Facebook page.
Business Logo and name on our website.

Sponsorship / Donation Form

Business Name/Person: ______________________________________________________________

Contact Name (If different) ______________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________________________

Email address: ________________________________________________________________________

Phone #: _____________________________________________________________________________

Donated Item: _______________________________________________________________________

Estimated value: ____________________________________________________________________

Payment Options:
Venmo: 313-549-0415
Credit Card: Visit our website at www.mdfc8.org
Check: ☐ Check enclosed (payable to Michigan Donor Family Council)
Mail checks and the form to:
MDFC c/o Patty Jo Herndon
14125 Terrace Court, Plymouth, MI 48170

Tax-Deductible Donation:
Your contribution is fully tax-deductible under the law.
MDFC's Tax ID # is 33-1071674
www.mdfc8.org

Please feel free to share them with friends, family, and contacts who may be interested in supporting these type of events. We want  this to be a resounding success, and that truly takes all of us working together.

Thank you for all you do to support the MDFC.

Patty Jo  

Patricia Jo Herndon, Donor Sister/Donor Aunt Co-Founder & CEO, Michigan Donor Family Council

Immediate Past Chair, Eversight Board of Directors

C: 313-549-0415

Organ Donation Saves and Enhances Lives

Visit us at mdfc8.org

Visit Eversight at eversightvision.org

Follow MDFC on Facebook

Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Feb 22, 2026

Zip Code: 48185

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Business + Bazaar- IONIA

We are hosting a resource table at Business + Bazaar, a vendor fair in Ionia, Michigan.

This is an indoor, resource table opportunity organized by Dani Reisbig. You will be handing out giveaway items and answering questions about organ and tissue donation. You're encouraged to speak about your personal experience with donation to the extent that you feel comfortable.

You'll have a staff member present with you during your entire shift. We will also have an FAQ sheet available for your review. You won't be asked to lift or carry heavy items or to assist with setup or tear down.

We don't have all of the details about the  event logistics yet, including the preferred door to enter and where vendors should park. If you sign up, Dani will send a follow-up email with additional information when it's made available by the organizers.


WINTER WEATHER

This winter has already proven that it shouldn't be underestimated. Please do not travel if you feel unsafe. In the case of cancellation, Dani will send an email as soon as possible. Please check your email before traveling to the event or contact Dani directly if you're unsure (especially if you're traveling far.)


DRESS CODE

Please wear your volunteer shirt and name tag.


ACCESSIBILITY

The space is wheelchair accessible. There will be handicap parking available. You will have a chair, and you are welcome to sit the entire time if needed. You will not be asked to lift or carry heavy items. This is an indoor, vendor event so it may be loud. You should expect large crowds.


FOOD & BEVERAGES

There are many restaurants and grocery stores close to the venue. There may be food vendors at the event. We aren't sure about restrictions to bring food and drink into the venue.


SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT THE EVENT

This event is raising support for IM Kids 3rd Meal, a local organization that provides food for children facing food insecurity in Ionia and Montcalm counties. If you want to bring items to support the food drive, these are the items requested: 

Peanut butter Jelly Cereal Individual fruit cupsPeanut butter crackersCheese crackers

Program: Community Events

We are hosting a resource table at Business + Bazaar, a vendor fair in Ionia, Michigan.

This is an indoor, resource table opportunity organized by Dani Reisbig. You will be handing out giveaway items and answering questions about organ and tissue donation. You're encouraged to speak about your personal experience with donation to the extent that you feel comfortable.

You'll have a staff member present with you during your entire shift. We will also have an FAQ sheet available for your review. You won't be asked to lift or carry heavy items or to assist with setup or tear down.

We don't have all of the details about the  event logistics yet, including the preferred door to enter and where vendors should park. If you sign up, Dani will send a follow-up email with additional information when it's made available by the organizers.


WINTER WEATHER

This winter has already proven that it shouldn't be underestimated. Please do not travel if you feel unsafe. In the case of cancellation, Dani will send an email as soon as possible. Please check your email before traveling to the event or contact Dani directly if you're unsure (especially if you're traveling far.)


DRESS CODE

Please wear your volunteer shirt and name tag.


ACCESSIBILITY

The space is wheelchair accessible. There will be handicap parking available. You will have a chair, and you are welcome to sit the entire time if needed. You will not be asked to lift or carry heavy items. This is an indoor, vendor event so it may be loud. You should expect large crowds.


FOOD & BEVERAGES

There are many restaurants and grocery stores close to the venue. There may be food vendors at the event. We aren't sure about restrictions to bring food and drink into the venue.


SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT THE EVENT

This event is raising support for IM Kids 3rd Meal, a local organization that provides food for children facing food insecurity in Ionia and Montcalm counties. If you want to bring items to support the food drive, these are the items requested: 

Peanut butter Jelly Cereal Individual fruit cupsPeanut butter crackersCheese crackers

Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 48846

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Call for Volunteers: 2026 Michigan Donation Advocacy Day -Lansing

Date:  April 22, 2026

Location: Michigan State Capitol, Lansing 

Time Commitment: Full day (morning through afternoon) 

Join fellow members of the donation community as we visit Michigan legislators to educate them about organ, eye and tissue donation and advocate for policy that will grow the Donor Registry and save more lives. 

This year’s top legislative priority is the High School Organ Donation Education Bill (HB5338 / SB206) — legislation that would encourage Michigan public schools to provide education about organ, eye and tissue donation and the Michigan Organ Donor Registry to all 9th grade students. This bill has bipartisan support and is critical to increasing teen registration rates and ensuring young people can make informed decisions about donation. 

 What to Expect on Advocacy Day 

Hospitality and brief kick-off program Day of training and overview of volunteer rolesHouse meetings in the morning  Lunch break  Senate meetings in the afternoon 

No prior advocacy experience is required — training and materials will be provided.  

If you have a personal connection to donation, we encourage you to share it. Your participation helps ensure lawmakers understand the importance of donation and the urgent need to expand education and registry growth across Michigan.

There will be a pre- advocacy day optional and virtual training

The date has yet to be determined.

Please continue to check back for those details. 

If you register to participate, you will be receiving updated communications about this day and the pre training.

At this point we are gauging interest. The team will look at actual sign up space for districts that need signups.



Program: Community Events

Date:  April 22, 2026

Location: Michigan State Capitol, Lansing 

Time Commitment: Full day (morning through afternoon) 

Join fellow members of the donation community as we visit Michigan legislators to educate them about organ, eye and tissue donation and advocate for policy that will grow the Donor Registry and save more lives. 

This year’s top legislative priority is the High School Organ Donation Education Bill (HB5338 / SB206) — legislation that would encourage Michigan public schools to provide education about organ, eye and tissue donation and the Michigan Organ Donor Registry to all 9th grade students. This bill has bipartisan support and is critical to increasing teen registration rates and ensuring young people can make informed decisions about donation. 

 What to Expect on Advocacy Day 

Hospitality and brief kick-off program Day of training and overview of volunteer rolesHouse meetings in the morning  Lunch break  Senate meetings in the afternoon 

No prior advocacy experience is required — training and materials will be provided.  

If you have a personal connection to donation, we encourage you to share it. Your participation helps ensure lawmakers understand the importance of donation and the urgent need to expand education and registry growth across Michigan.

There will be a pre- advocacy day optional and virtual training

The date has yet to be determined.

Please continue to check back for those details. 

If you register to participate, you will be receiving updated communications about this day and the pre training.

At this point we are gauging interest. The team will look at actual sign up space for districts that need signups.



Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 22, 2026

Zip Code: 48933

Allow Groups: Yes


Volunteer: Resource table at EMU basketball games-Ypsilanti

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Volunteers,

Gift of Life Michigan has been invited to host a resource table at six Eastern Michigan University Home Games. 

We are asking for help from 1-2 volunteers for each game.

Please see the games and their Corresponding dates listed below:

Men's Basketball

Tuesday, February 17, 2026 @ 6:30 PM vs Central Michigan

Tuesday, February 24, 2026 6:30PM vs Miami 

Friday, March 6, 2026 @ 6:30PM vs Bowling Green

Women's Basketball

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 @ 6:30PM vs Ball State

Wednesday, February 25, 2026@ 6:30PM vs Miami

Wednesday, March 4, 2026 @6:30 PM vs Ohio

Program: Community Events

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Volunteers,

Gift of Life Michigan has been invited to host a resource table at six Eastern Michigan University Home Games. 

We are asking for help from 1-2 volunteers for each game.

Please see the games and their Corresponding dates listed below:

Men's Basketball

Tuesday, February 17, 2026 @ 6:30 PM vs Central Michigan

Tuesday, February 24, 2026 6:30PM vs Miami 

Friday, March 6, 2026 @ 6:30PM vs Bowling Green

Women's Basketball

Tuesday, February 10, 2026 @ 6:30PM vs Ball State

Wednesday, February 25, 2026@ 6:30PM vs Miami

Wednesday, March 4, 2026 @6:30 PM vs Ohio

Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 48197

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: West Michigan Woman's Expo

Volunteer Opportunity for Donor Moms, Women Recipients, and All Supportive Volunteers at the Women’s Expo Event March 6-8! We are thrilled to invite women who have been donors or recipients of organ and tissue donations to join us as volunteers. Since this is a women-focused expo, having women with these experiences will add a special layer of connection and support for attendees. However, we warmly welcome men who would like to volunteer as well—your support is appreciated! Event Highlights: This Women’s Expo is a dynamic resource fair dedicated to women’s health, wellness, and community resources. It’s a space for women to discover helpful services, connect, and feel supported by others who share similar journeys.

What We Need: Volunteers available on all event days with flexible time slots. Once you sign up, we’ll provide a selection of time options to fit your schedule.

If you have any Gift of Life apparel, please feel free to wear it! And of course, dress comfortably so you can enjoy the event. Your involvement will help create a welcoming environment, sharing your stories and support with women who might benefit from hearing real-life experiences with organ and tissue donation. And to any men who wish to volunteer, we appreciate your willingness to support this wonderful cause. We look forward to having you on board for this resourceful and empowering expo!

For additional event information please click the link below:

https://www.devosplace.org/events/2026/west-michigan-womens-expo222

Program: Community Events

Volunteer Opportunity for Donor Moms, Women Recipients, and All Supportive Volunteers at the Women’s Expo Event March 6-8! We are thrilled to invite women who have been donors or recipients of organ and tissue donations to join us as volunteers. Since this is a women-focused expo, having women with these experiences will add a special layer of connection and support for attendees. However, we warmly welcome men who would like to volunteer as well—your support is appreciated! Event Highlights: This Women’s Expo is a dynamic resource fair dedicated to women’s health, wellness, and community resources. It’s a space for women to discover helpful services, connect, and feel supported by others who share similar journeys.

What We Need: Volunteers available on all event days with flexible time slots. Once you sign up, we’ll provide a selection of time options to fit your schedule.

If you have any Gift of Life apparel, please feel free to wear it! And of course, dress comfortably so you can enjoy the event. Your involvement will help create a welcoming environment, sharing your stories and support with women who might benefit from hearing real-life experiences with organ and tissue donation. And to any men who wish to volunteer, we appreciate your willingness to support this wonderful cause. We look forward to having you on board for this resourceful and empowering expo!

For additional event information please click the link below:

https://www.devosplace.org/events/2026/west-michigan-womens-expo222

Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 49507

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Richland Community Library Comfort Blanket Event - Richland

Richland Community Library will be hosting a comfort blanket event and I am requesting 2 volunteers to help facilitate. 

No crafting skills are necessary.

If you can tie your shoes and cut using scissors, you will be a success at this event.

Program: Community Events

Richland Community Library will be hosting a comfort blanket event and I am requesting 2 volunteers to help facilitate. 

No crafting skills are necessary.

If you can tie your shoes and cut using scissors, you will be a success at this event.

Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Mar 4, 2026

Zip Code: 49083

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Donate Life Month Comfort Blanket Event -Grand Rapids

Young Money Finance, an organization in Grand Rapids, will be hosting our Donate Life Month comfort blanket event. I am looking for 3-4 volunteers to help the families attending to ensure that blankets are done correctly. They will be serving food and will need help with serving as well. 

Program: Community Events

Young Money Finance, an organization in Grand Rapids, will be hosting our Donate Life Month comfort blanket event. I am looking for 3-4 volunteers to help the families attending to ensure that blankets are done correctly. They will be serving food and will need help with serving as well. 

Program: Community Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Apr 18, 2026

Zip Code: 49507

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Donate Life Night at the John Ball Zoo - Grand Rapids

GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. – Gift of Life Michigan welcomes the West Michigan community to an evening of connection and celebration at the annual Donate Life Night at John Ball Zoo on Thurs., July 17 from 6-9 pm. This after-hours event is dedicated to honoring organ, eye and tissue donors, celebrating transplant recipients and encouraging more residents to join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry.  

Guests can enjoy full access to the zoo’s animal exhibits, free face painting, ice cream, live music, and activities hosted by local community partners. A highlight of the evening will be the Celebration of Life Trail, a touching tribute showcasing the stories and memories of donors and recipients whose lives were forever changed through donation.  “Donate Life Night at the Zoo is a meaningful way for us to come together with the West Michigan transplant community,” said Dorrie Dils, president and CEO of Gift of Life Michigan. “It’s a time to honor the incredible generosity of donors and highlight the powerful stories of those whose lives have been transformed through transplantation.” 

WHEN: Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 6 - 9 PM (Volunteers may need to arrive earlier, please check back for those updates!)

WHERE: John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids MI, 49504

WHAT: Explore John Ball Zoo, check out resources from our community partners, and enjoy meeting other donor families, transplant recipients and supporters of organ, eye and tissue donation. We'll also honor donors and recipients on the Celebration of Life Trail, an important feature you don't want to miss.

COST: $5 donation per person is recommended Questions? Contact zoo@golm.org.

More than 2,600 Michigan patients are waiting for a lifesaving transplant.  The best way to save lives is by joining the Donor Registry. To register or learn more about the donation process, visit giftoflifemichigan.org

Program: Annual Events

GRAND RAPIDS, MICH. – Gift of Life Michigan welcomes the West Michigan community to an evening of connection and celebration at the annual Donate Life Night at John Ball Zoo on Thurs., July 17 from 6-9 pm. This after-hours event is dedicated to honoring organ, eye and tissue donors, celebrating transplant recipients and encouraging more residents to join the Michigan Organ Donor Registry.  

Guests can enjoy full access to the zoo’s animal exhibits, free face painting, ice cream, live music, and activities hosted by local community partners. A highlight of the evening will be the Celebration of Life Trail, a touching tribute showcasing the stories and memories of donors and recipients whose lives were forever changed through donation.  “Donate Life Night at the Zoo is a meaningful way for us to come together with the West Michigan transplant community,” said Dorrie Dils, president and CEO of Gift of Life Michigan. “It’s a time to honor the incredible generosity of donors and highlight the powerful stories of those whose lives have been transformed through transplantation.” 

WHEN: Thursday, July 16, 2026, from 6 - 9 PM (Volunteers may need to arrive earlier, please check back for those updates!)

WHERE: John Ball Zoo, 1300 W. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids MI, 49504

WHAT: Explore John Ball Zoo, check out resources from our community partners, and enjoy meeting other donor families, transplant recipients and supporters of organ, eye and tissue donation. We'll also honor donors and recipients on the Celebration of Life Trail, an important feature you don't want to miss.

COST: $5 donation per person is recommended Questions? Contact zoo@golm.org.

More than 2,600 Michigan patients are waiting for a lifesaving transplant.  The best way to save lives is by joining the Donor Registry. To register or learn more about the donation process, visit giftoflifemichigan.org

Program: Annual Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Jul 16, 2026

Zip Code: 49504

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Donor Family Exclusive Comfort blanket event- Ann Arbor

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Donor Families,

On March 21st from 10am-2pm, Gift of Life Michigan is hosting a comfort blanket event for our donor families at the Gift of Life Michigan Office.

We are putting on this event as another way to bring our donor families together to honor the gifts your loved ones have given.

The agenda for this event is comfort blankets.

Please feel free to invite your families to attend. 

Light snacks will be provided.

If you have any questions or concerns about this event please reach out to me directly.

Program: Donor Family Exclusive Events

Hello Gift of Life Michigan Donor Families,

On March 21st from 10am-2pm, Gift of Life Michigan is hosting a comfort blanket event for our donor families at the Gift of Life Michigan Office.

We are putting on this event as another way to bring our donor families together to honor the gifts your loved ones have given.

The agenda for this event is comfort blankets.

Please feel free to invite your families to attend. 

Light snacks will be provided.

If you have any questions or concerns about this event please reach out to me directly.

Program: Donor Family Exclusive Events

Event Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Mar 21, 2026

Zip Code: 48108

Allow Groups: Yes