Union Berlin Fans Donated Blood

In 2004, German football club "1. FC Union Berlin" faced bankruptcy and needed a 1.46 million euro liquidity reserve to secure its license for the coming season. Supporters launched "Bleed for Union," donating blood to Berlin hospitals and giving their reimbursement fees to the club. The blood drive joined concerts, friendly matches, sponsorship payments, and other activities that raised about 900,000 euros. Club president Dirk Zingler then took out a personal loan, which investor Michael Kolmel matched, closing the remaining gap and keeping Union alive.

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