Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has launched a new statewide campaign encouraging residents to register as organ and tissue donors.
The campaign began airing Monday on television, radio, digital and social media platforms and focuses on the message that organ donation can provide someone with the “gift of life.”
More than 4,000 Illinois residents are currently awaiting lifesaving transplants, while approximately 300 people die each year while waiting for a transplant.
Illinois has more than 7 million registered organ and tissue donors, with an average of more than 20,000 people signing up each month through DMV facilities. Officials say a single donor can save or improve the lives of up to 25 people.
The Secretary of State’s office maintains the state’s Life Goes On Organ/Tissue Donor Registry.
Illinois residents can register when obtaining or renewing a driver’s license or state ID at a Secretary of State facility, online through the Life Goes On program or by calling 800-210-2106.