Think Ahead: National Hug Day

We tend to post information on very serious awareness months. Scrolling further down in this blog, you’ll see posts that talk about World AIDS Day, Breast Cancer Awareness and even an awareness day that has recently reemerged into the media limelight – World Mental Health Day.

It’s not often that we inform our readers of silly and fun awareness events. But we encourage our readers and subscribers to circle their calendars for January 21, 2013.

January 21 is National Hug Day. Recognized by the United States Copyright Office and countries throughout the world (Australia, Germany, China, Russia, United Kingdom and many others) this day is set aside to spread love and increase morale. There are benefits to giving and receiving a hug linked to improving everything from one’s mental health to one’s heart.

On January 21, 2013 be sure to hug those who you love. (and some you would never think about hugging) The activity could benefit you and others greatly.

Promoting Blood Donor Awareness Month

Blood Donor Awareness Month is this January, so now’s the time to start preparing! Whether you’re organizing a blood drive or simply want to help raise awareness about why donating blood is so important, check out our ideas outlined below.

1. Host an American Red Cross blood drive

The American Red Cross offers tons of tips and resources that will come in handy if you choose to organize a blood drive in honor of Blood Donor Awareness Month. According to its website, the American Red Cross will help out a lot during your blood donation drive. A host is expected to offer a good location, recruit donors, publicize the event and create a schedule. But the American Red Cross will do the rest! (This includes bringing equipment, supplies and screening and collecting the donations.)

2. Spread the word

If you don’t have the time or resources to plan a blood drive, why not take the opportunity to spread awareness about donating blood? You can print up flyers and hand them out at the office, in schools and throughout your community. Here are some statistics you might want to include in your promotional materials, courtesy of the American Red Cross:

  • Someone in America needs blood every two seconds.
  • Every day, over 44,000 blood donations are needed.
  • Hospitals most often request Type O blood.
  • Just one car accident victim can require nearly 100 pints of blood.

Custom Printed Magnet - Droplet Shape

3. Hand out giveaways

If you want your Blood Donor Awareness Month message to last a little bit longer, consider giving away promotional products. They’re great for promoting events and bring attention to the issues. Moreover, people will hold onto your giveaways beyond January, making your purchase well worth the money.

How will you take part in Blood Donor Awareness Month?

Wright Brothers Day: Celebrating Flight!

On December 17, 1903, the Wright brothers – less-commonly known as Orville and Wilbur — were the first people to successfully fly an aircraft. To commemorate the occasion, people across the United States celebrate Wright Brothers Day on that same day each year.

It may sound like a silly national observance, but the Wright brothers’ accomplishment sparked aviation advancements that led to today’s impressive airplanes. Indeed, their efforts paved the way for aeronautics as we know it.

Custom Die Cast Airplane Clock

Ceremonies and activities will take place across America on Wright Brothers Day, including the annual Wright Brothers dinner and celebrations at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, where Orville and Wilbur first flew.

Will you observe Wright Brothers Day this year?

Think Ahead: Healthy Weight Awareness Month

With the coming of the New Year comes another year of resolutions – a chance to take the bad habits from 2012 and years before and make good on promises to change them.

The number one resolution among American adults last year was to lose weight. Unfortunately, only 46% of those who start the year with a resolution stick with it six months later. What’s worse is that 25% of those who have a resolution on January 1st will see their resolution fizzle out by January 8th.

Perhaps celebrating Healthy Weight Awareness Month in January might not be a bad idea, especially for companies interested in boosting employee morale. Dozens of studies show that losing weight, especially with a group, and driving toward a realistic dietary and exercise goal increases confidence. This confidence can then be translated to improved performance in the office and possibly an increase in 1st quarter profits.

Motivators has plenty of promotional giveaway items for Healthy Weight Awareness Month for every budget.  Be sure to contact our sales team regarding the best item to give away in January.

When is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day?

Each year, America’s National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is recognized on December 7. The purpose of the national observance is to commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II.

62nd Pearl Harbor Anniversary

According to an official statement by President Barack Obama, more than 2,400 American military personnel and civilians were killed on December 7, 1941 during the unprovoked Pearl Harbor attack. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families for whom this day is deeply personal—the spouses, brothers and sisters, and sons and daughters who have known seven decades without a loved one but who have kept their legacy alive for future generations,” the president said.

How can you help salute those who fought for our country and raise awareness about National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day?

1. Fly your flag half-mast
2. Hold a memorial service
3. Hand out promotional military products in your community