ISU students will have a chance to help others by getting involved with the annual Spring Blood Drive.

Iowa State hosts the nation’s largest student-run blood drive, according to a press release.

There are two drives a year at Iowa State — one in the fall and one in the spring.

The Spring Blood Drive, which is financed by the Government of the Student Body, starts today and runs through Friday in the Great Hall of the Memorial Union. It will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday.

To donate blood, one must be 18 years old, weigh more than 110 pounds, not have had a needle piercing within the last year and not have a cold or flu.

Each donation takes about 45 minutes. Those who are unable to donate can volunteer.

Students who donate also can benefit their fraternities or residence halls.

Fraternity and sorority members get points toward Greek Week for participating in the blood drive either as a volunteer or a donor.

Students who live in ISU dorms also get points to be used in a Department of Residence competition for a pizza party.

The blood drive is not just for students; members of the Ames community are also encouraged to get involved.