National Minority Donor Awareness Day (NMDAD) is observed on August 1st every year an intensive awareness campaign reaching out to minorities of all ethnic groups. NMDAD focuses on the various [organ/tissue donation] fears and obstacles directly related to minorities. The objective is to promote healthy living and disease prevention and to increase the number of people who sign donor cards, have family discussions and actually become donors.

In addition, NMDAD increases national awareness of the disproportionate rates of hypertension, diabetes, kidney and other diseases that affect minorities at a much higher incidence that its counterparts. Also, this day of observance increases awareness of the behaviors that may lead to the need for transplantation such as smoking, alcohol and substance abuse, and poor nutrition.

This particular day highlights donor families of all ethnic groups across the country including: African American, Hispanics/Latinos, Asians, Alaska Natives, Pacific Islanders and Native Americans. Activities held in observance of NMDAD include:

• Prayer Breakfast
• Health Walks
• Donor Drives @ Shopping Malls
• Tree Planting Ceremonies

The community is invited to participate, including transplant recipients, donor family members, community leaders, spiritual leaders, Congresspersons, Mayors and Governors.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL MINORITY DONOR AWARENESS DAY EVERY AUGUST 1st