Howard-Ellis Elementary will be hosting a memorial blood drive on Nov. 6 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. during parent-teacher conferences. South Bend Medical Foundation will be coordinating and scheduling the drive in honor of Ava Zimmerman.

Ava, a brave little girl who lived only 93 days, was born with a heart defect, underwent multiple surgeries and had numerous blood transfusions. In honor of her memory, Jamie Zimmerman and her husband looked for ways to give meaning and purpose to young Ava’s short life. The Zimmermans focus on two events each year and in 2014 they had 47 participants donate at the annual blood drive at Niles Inn. The blood drive at Howard-Ellis is new territory for them, but knowing the Niles community’s commitment to supporting worthy causes, they are confident it will be a success.

“With so many parents expected to be in the school to meet with their children’s teachers, it seemed like the perfect time to schedule the blood drive supporting the Zimmermans and our community’s blood bank,” said Michelle Asmus, principal. “On behalf of the Zimmermans, I would like to thank those community members who are planning to donate blood this year as well as those who have donated in the past. Our efforts may help save lives.”

Ava’s Memorial account receives “credit” for sponsoring the donors and each donor can choose to receive a voucher for a free turkey or they may choose a voucher to donate $10 to Howard-Ellis. The money raised will go toward materials for Howard-Ellis’ Book Room. To register, please visit https://www.givebloodnow.com/index.cfm?group=op&step=2&opid=5227.