On Sunday, March 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale—The Bayit (HIR), in partnership with the New York Blood Center, will host its annual winter blood drive. But this isn’t just any blood drive. At HIR, giving blood isn’t viewed as a routine medical donation—it’s a celebration of community, compassion and continuity. This year’s event carries special significance as the community will honor Andrew Upton, a longtime HIR member whose dedication to blood donation spans nearly six decades.
Yael Manor-Oshinsky, HIR’s program coordinator, described what makes the synagogue’s blood drives special: “Our blood drives have a unique model. We honor someone in the community at each blood drive. The honorees involve their friends and family—spreading the love and the importance of giving blood.” It’s a simple yet powerful formula: recognizing one person’s generosity inspires others to follow their example.
This year’s honoree is the embodiment of that spirit. With an impressive academic background—a B.A. in economics from CCNY, a master’s in education from NYU, and a law degree from Brooklyn Law School—Upton’s career has spanned education, law and human resources in top-tier financial firms. Though officially retired for three years, he continues to offer his expertise through pro bono legal work and serves as an expert witness in employment cases. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he has been a lifelong blood donor.
Upton’s journey as a blood donor began in 1966. “I was a 19-year-old sophomore at City College of New York,” he recalled. “I saw a poster asking for volunteer blood donors to help a fellow student. I had never donated blood, but I decided that if a healthy 19-year-old wouldn’t donate, who would?” The experience was transformative. Treated like a hero and rewarded with cookies and snacks, Upton discovered not just the ease of donating but the profound sense of purpose it brought. “I became hooked as a blood donor and a blood donor ‘preacher.’ Over the past 58 years, I’ve donated 51 times, and I’ve pestered my work colleagues and friends to join the effort. I’m looking forward to my 52nd donation here at the Hebrew Institute.”
Rabbi Steven Exler, HIR’s senior rabbi, spoke warmly of Upton’s impact on the community: “We are grateful to be able to honor our cherished longtime community member Andrew Upton at this season’s blood drive in recognition of his incredible commitment to lifesaving blood donation spanning many decades. Andy’s warmth and kindness are another way he gives life, as well as his deep and passionate activism on behalf of the Jewish people. I hope each of us, in our own ways, will follow his example.”
The heartbeat behind HIR’s blood drives is Seryl Ritter, who has chaired the event for 25 of its 35 years. A dedicated volunteer, she stepped into this role when Chaim Marks, the original coordinator, sought her help. “We were the first Jewish organization to host a blood drive in Riverdale,” she noted proudly. After Marks’ passing, the drive was dedicated to his memory on his first yahrzeit.
Ritter emphasizes that the drive is more than a logistical operation; it’s a vibrant, inclusive gathering. “We dedicate the drive to someone to honor the way they serve as a role model. It raises people’s consciousness about the importance of donating blood. We try to make our drives as accessible, uplifting and inspiring as possible—we treat it like a community event.”
This community focus extends to every detail. Magen David Adom will once again be present, accompanied by volunteer Rachel Orloff and Charlie, a beloved therapy dog who never fails to delight children. A crafts station keeps children entertained, making the environment welcoming for families and easing the process for parents. “It teaches kids that giving blood isn’t scary—it’s natural and normal. They see their parents doing it and doing fine,” said Ritter.
Yet, despite the warmth and enthusiasm surrounding the event, Ritter acknowledged the ongoing challenge: “It’s unfortunate that the blood centers are always begging for blood and that such a small percentage of the population is able and willing to donate.”
HIR’s efforts have expanded beyond their own walls. Through partnerships with other Jewish institutions in Riverdale, coordinated by the Riverdale Jewish Community Partnership, there’s now a network of blood drives ensuring opportunities to donate almost every month of the year.
The dedication of donors across generations is particularly moving. “It’s amazing to see how many 16-year-olds are excited to give blood for the first time,” she shared, noting that they need parental consent and photo ID. Sometimes, eager teens forget their ID but rush home to retrieve it, determined not to miss their chance. On the other end of the spectrum, seniors over 75 often arrive ready to donate, only to realize they need a doctor’s note. “They’ll say, ‘If I call my doctor and he emails you, can I do it?’” Ritter remarked.
The New York Blood Center, represented by Natasha Chattar, has been a vital partner in these efforts. The organization’s commitment to its mission is evident, and its reach extends beyond New York; it is part of a national network that has an agreement with the State of Israel to supply blood in times of need.
For those who meet specific height and weight requirements, an ALYX machine will be available, allowing for the donation of two complete transfusion units of red blood cells. Eligible donors must be between 17 and 75, with 16-year-olds requiring parental consent. A photo ID is required, and those feeling unwell should wait until they are healthy to donate.
The blood drive will take place at the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale, located at 3700 Henry Hudson Parkway, Bronx, NY 10463. For more information and to register, scan the QR code in this article or visit https://www.thebayit.org/event/bd0325
