In 1986, an organ recovery organization with a staff of less than 10 emerged as Lifebanc.

CLEVELAND - Lifebanc, Northeast Ohio's organ, eye and tissue recovery organization, celebrated its 25th anniversary Saturday evening with a black-tie gala fundraiser at Cleveland Renaissance Hotel.

Stories of hope, inspiration and changed lives were shared by those impacted by Lifebanc's efforts.

Senator George Voinovich, Lifebanc ambassador Lynda Corea and Cleveland Clinic's Art Thomson were presented with Lifebanc's Legacy of Life award for their efforts educating the public about organ, eye and tissue donation and for being catalysts to increase the number of registered donors.

NewsChannel 5 Sports Director Andy Baskin, himself a past Community Service award winner, was one of the presenters at the 25th anniversary gala.

A silent auction of donated items was also held.  Proceeds from the gala will be used to expand Lifebanc's bereavement services and outreach to the community to increase the number of registered organ, eye and tissue donors.

In 1986, an organ recovery organization with a staff of less than 10 emerged as Lifebanc.  Today, Lifebanc partners with nearly 80 regional hospitals and University Hospitals Transplant Institute and the Cleveland Clinic Transplant Center to save lives.