HOSA SERVICE PROJECT: NMDP
Over the decades, Be The Match has been known by a few names, like Be The Match® or the National Marrow Donor Program®. Today, they move forward as NMDP—one name that not only captures the breadth of everything they do today, but their ambitions for tomorrow.
They are creating a world where blood cancer and disorders are a thing of the past. Their name has changed, but their mission has not: We save lives through cell therapy.
UPDATED AGE LIMIT
To better support patients, as of October 1, the eligible age range for joining the NMDP Registry is 18–35 (previously 18–40). This update was guided by research showing that younger donors provide the best outcomes for patients, leading to fewer complications and better long-term recovery. Younger donors are also more likely to add diversity to the registry, giving every patient—no matter their ethnic background—a stronger chance to find their life-saving match. This change also brings NMDP in line with most registries around the world, ensuring we’re giving patients the best possible hope for a cure. Learn more about why age matters.
2025-2026 NMDP INCENTIVE POINTS
Here’s how your chapter can earn recognition—and even funds—for supporting the NMDP mission through fundraising, volunteering, and adding people to the donor registry:
MISSION IMPACT TIER TERMS
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Open to all official HOSA chapters partnered with NMDP who complete and meet the requirements of the activities listed above.
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Total points earned must include at least 25% from fundraising.
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The advisor of the eligible chapter must submit an official application online and include a W9 and explanation for how funds will support chapter-led, mission-aligned activities.
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Applications will be accepted twice a year during a 14-day period. The first before the end of the calendar year, 2025; the second before the end of the membership year, 2026.
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Funds will be disbursed via check within two (2) weeks of the close of the application deadline.
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Submission of an application does not guarantee approval. NMDP reserves the right to decline applications in its sole discretion.
NMDP HONOR CORDS
In addition, students who record 20 or more volunteer hours before they graduate high school, or college can earn an NMDP Honor Cord to wear at commencement.
When creating your NMDP Volunteer Portal account, be sure to enter your expected graduation date and your correct home address.
Cords ship in mid-April (for May graduations) and mid-May (for June graduations).
LOOKING FOR SWAB EVENT MATERIALS?
You watched the swab event training webinar, you’ve planned your event and you’re ready to host, what’s next? First, make sure your chapter team page is registered and you have a join keyword for your chapter. During registration, you can use a join keyword from last year or request a new one. Once your chapter team page and join keyword are finalized, all you need to do is contact your local Be The Match Representative and ask them to send you materials. If you don’t know your Be The Match Representative, please reach out to us at hosa@nmdp.org.
What ideas do you have? Do you need help executing your idea? Contact HOSA@nmdp.org to share, ask questions or to get in contact with your NMDP Representative.
Need a Join Keyword? Email HOSA@nmdp.org.
Need help with fundraising? Check out these resources.
Need help creating your volunteer account? View the step-by-step guide.
Questions? Contact HOSA@nmdp.org with any questions or to get in contact with your NMDP Representative!