Miller-Keystone Blood Center is encouraging high school students to use their imagination to create a short video promoting the need for younger generations to become regular blood donors, and the importance of donating with Miller-Keystone Blood Center – the exclusive blood supplier to regional hospitals.

"Forty percent of the population is eligible to donate blood, but only 5 percent of those eligible donate on a regular basis," said Sean Tinney, Miller-Keystone director of marketing and business development.

"As the population ages and medical technology advances, the demand for blood products will outpace the supply, which means the future health of our community depends on educating our youth today on the importance of blood donation."

The theme of Miller-Keystone's video contest is "Getting Younger Generations to Donate Blood," and should promote the blood center's brand.

Deadline to submit a video is Dec. 31.

According to Tinney, a Miller-Keystone contest committee will select the top five videos and place them on YouTube.

The video with the highest number of views between Jan. 15 and April 15, 2015, will receive a $500 scholarship award.

"In addition to the $500 scholarship award, there are many reasons for high school students to get involved in this promotion," Tinney said. "Not only does community involvement look great on college applications, but participants will also be helping save lives in our community by educating their peers on the importance of donating blood.

"We encourage students at all of the high schools in our area to use their talent and creativity, and look forward to seeing some really imaginative and inspiring videos."

For additional details on Miller-Keystone Blood Center's high school video contest, visit GIVEaPINT.org, or contact Tinney at 800-B-A-DONOR (223-6667) or stinney@GIVEaPINT.org.