Volunteer Spotlight: How One Employee Sparked a Lifesaving Movement at Opportunity Bank
May 30, 2025
At Opportunity Bank of Montana, our commitment to community
extends beyond financial services, it is reflected in the actions and passions
of our employees. One such example is Breanna Carioto, Opportunity Bank’s
Project Manager, whose personal journey has led to a meaningful and impactful
bank partnership with the American Red Cross of Montana.
Through Breanna’s leadership and dedication, Opportunity
Bank has hosted three blood drives in coordination with the Red Cross since
last year. These events have brought together 87 community members, 63 of whom
were Opportunity Bank employees, and have resulted in the collection of 82
units of blood. Each unit represents a critical resource that can help save
lives and support families during medical emergencies.
Breanna’s commitment to blood donation stems from a deeply
personal experience.
“Blood donation has always been a part of my life, albeit
casually,” she explained. “I understood its importance and made it a point to
donate whenever I could. However, it wasn't until 2022 that blood donation
became a passion and a high priority for me.”
That year, Breanna received a call that would forever change
her perspective: her father had become suddenly and gravely ill. She was told,
“If you are coming, it needs to be now.” It was the availability of donated
blood that allowed her the time to fly to say goodbye to her father.
“That experience was a turning point for me. I realized that
blood donation was not just a good deed but a lifeline for many families like
mine.”
Motivated by this experience, Breanna made blood donation a
personal priority. In May 2024, while attending a meeting of the American
Business Women’s Association Big Sky Chapter, she heard Nona Keeler, Account
Manager for American Red Cross Blood Services, speak about the ongoing need for
blood donors and the impact of local blood drives.
“Inspired by Nona's words, I decided to bring blood drives
to Opportunity Bank of Montana. It was a way to help the community and make a
tangible difference. Seeing colleagues and community members come together to
donate blood has been heartwarming and fulfilling.”
Since then, Breanna has played a central role in organizing
Opportunity Bank’s blood drives, strengthening a culture of compassion and
service among her colleagues. She is organizing the two upcoming blood drives on
June 6, and October 28 at the Opportunity Bank Conference Center, located at
1550 Vandelay Ave., in Helena. We invite all eligible donors to participate and
make a difference.
“Blood donation is more than just a medical procedure; it's
an act of kindness, and solidarity. It's a way to give back to the community
and ensure that no one has to face the fear of losing a loved one due to a lack
of blood. My journey with blood donation has been deeply personal and
transformative, and I hope to inspire others to join me in this life-saving
mission,” she said.
