From the gathering, counting and petitioning of donations in weeks and days before the event, Lend-A-Hand Day 2012 went well this year. Many local businesses were more than happy to donate items on our list, which was very encouraging. And those who were a part of these endeavors in previous years also brought some of their expertise to the table. Even up to those final minutes before 9AM, we’d heard stories about people who had been forming a line since midnight. The real-life poverty hit home for many including one of our first time volunteers. Her name was Sarah: an Art and Writing major who was assigned as a personal shopper. The registration table, shopping bags and volunteers were all in place to begin this wonderful day of service and meet many people who were in desperate need of these goods we so willingly overlook as parts of our everyday lives. One young woman in particular was less fortunate and had just lost about 100 pounds and needed some new clothes, but despite her need, she kept repeating, “I don’t need much. There are people coming after me who could use this more than I can.”
Just to be able to help that amount of people in that capacity was not only implemental, but inspiring as well. I think that everyone should have a first-hand opportunity such as this one to give back to others in their community. PC’s and GA’s alike were satisfied with the turnout but took notes to make next year even better.
-Cariema Wood, Program Coordinator, Service Engagement Corps Member
No comments:
Post a Comment