If you are in the Knoxville area, here are some opportunities to donate to the Red Cross over the weekend.

The University of Tennessee Student Government Association will be at the following locations from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 1 and Friday, Sept. 2:

• Joe Johnson Pedestrian Mall (near the Library)

• Presidential Courtyard

• University Center (back plaza)

Before and after the football game Saturday, Sept. 3, fans will be able to donate to the Red Cross:

• Prior to the game from 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. at Circle Park

• From the forth quarter onward, Red Cross Volunteers will be located at several gates outside Neyland Stadium

Finally, Monday, Sept. 5, the football team will hold the second annual “OrangeAid.” Players will be giving autographs in return for a donation to the American Red Cross at both West Town Mall and Knoxville Center Mall from 6-7 p.m. T-shirts with the inscription “One Heartbeat” will also be available for $15 with the proceeds will go to the Red Cross’ relief efforts.

Hats off to my colleagues in the University’s Public Relations Department for promoting these opportunities.

UPDATE: I should mention that these opportunities will be for cash donations only. Do not bring items such as bottled water, food or clothing. The collection volunteers will not be prepared to handle those items. As this FEMA press release (via Glenn Reynolds) indicates, right now cash will be the biggest help to those who are affected. Donate to a relief agency and let the agency disperse the funds. I am recommending Samaritan’s Purse, The Salvation Army or the American Red Cross. If the Red Cross website is slow then make a donation to your local chapter. Donations to the Knoxville Area Chapter can be made online. Glenn Reynolds and N.Z. Bear both have posted lists of other relief organizations.