A familiar face showed up at the Greer Commission of Public Works’ blood drive this past Thursday. Rick Beheler, a longtime employee of the CPW, donated for what he thinks is the 120th time — a total of 15 gallons.
Beheler was born and raised in Greer and continues to serve his community today. He began his time at the CPW 44 years ago when he started reading meters for the company’s electric department.
Twenty-five years ago, Greer CPW began its official partnership with The Blood Connection, hosting various drives throughout the year. Beheler has made it his mission to go as much as he can, something he sees as a simple task with a great impact.
“They can’t just go make the blood. They have to have the people give it, and I enjoy giving it,” Beheler said. “... The Lord says we need to serve, and if we can help others that way, that’s easy.”
Beheler says he started donating at around the age of 19, and he has no plans to stop soon. At the most recent drive, he arrived at eight in the morning to give before the workday. Later in the day, he serves the community in another capacity — through his work.
While Beheler has held many positions in the CPW over the years, he currently oversees underground installation for the electric department. He says the most rewarding part of the job is being able to solve problems for community members and feel their gratitude. This gratitude, Beheler said, inspires him to work even harder.
“It's been a good job, [and] a pleasure to work. They've been good to me,” Beheler said. “I've always enjoyed it when you go out and help, and people will be thankful. It's a good, thankful bunch of people.”
He added: “I really like to help people, [and] I don’t like to see them suffering.”
Beheler’s most recent donation also marks a milestone for Greer CPW and The Blood Connection’s partnership. This season of drives marked 25 years of partnership between the groups, and Thursday’s drive had some of the highest attendance seen by the groups. A total of 55 donors came out to the event, which is double the amount of sign-ups the CPW’s drives typically get, according to Alison Rauch, Greer CPW’s Public Information Coordinator.
Greer CPW’s next blood drives are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 18, at Lake Robinson Day and Thursday, Dec. 4, at the CPW. For more information on Greer CPW, visit their website or Facebook page.
Find out more about The Blood Connection, or schedule a donation appointment, on its website.
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