World Blood Donor Day is just around the corner, and while you shouldn't need an excuse to donate blood, here's a built in for you.

Our blood banking system relies on volunteers like you to keep the supply of blood in this country plentiful and safe. In the past, the American Red Cross paid for donors and sought blood units from inmates which led to a tainted blood supply. So it's vitally important that people who can give blood, who have untainted blood, to give blood. That means you.

It's simple. It's takes very little time. It saves lives. And it will make you feel good about yourself.

To find out where to donate, go here. To find out if you're eligible go here

Why should you donate?

There is a multitude of reasons to donate, including the fact that nearly all of the nation's blood supply depends upon volunteers like you. Sixty percent of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, however, only five percent do. If all blood donors gave at least twice a year, it would greatly strengthen the nation's blood supply. There is no substitute for human blood.

Donating blood saves lives. It may not be your neighbor or co-worker or best friend who needs your blood today. But someone does. Every three seconds, someone needs blood in the United States. Your blood donation could save as many as three patients who need you to be a hero.

While blood donors are needed throughout the year, they are most needed during holidays and in the summer. It is during these times that the number of donations declines while the demand continues or even increases. While a given individual may be unable to donate, he or she may be able to recruit a suitable donor. Relatives and friends of a patient requiring a blood transfusion may wish to help their loved one. Donating blood to replenish the units that were needed is one of the best gifts one can give.