Today@Sam Article
Tis’ The Season Of Bearkats Giving
Dec. 1, 2017
SHSU Media Contact: Emily Binetti
Story by Amanda Horn
In the spirit of giving, departments across Sam Houston State University are hosting events and programs in order to encourage those on campus to give back to the community.
One of the programs is The Tree of Hope sponsored by the Department of Leadership Initiatives.
Each year around the holidays, the Department of Leadership Initiatives partners with the Boys and Girls Club of Walker County to bring Christmas joy to underserved children in the community.
SHSU students, staff and faculty are encouraged to stop by the Lowman Student Center Room 328T to select one or more gifts to provide, in order to fulfill a child's wish list.
“This specific service program is special because it is a perfect way for the people on our campus to serve the community in which our university is located,” Emily Snider, program specialist for Leadership Initiatives said.
Rather than adopting and providing for one child, the department divides the different wish items so that there is something to choose from for every budget.
“We have seen such an influx of participation in Tree of Hope that we were fortunate enough to increase the number of children that we provide gifts for,” Snider said.
Giving to the local Boys and Girls Club is also the goal of SH Dining Services this holiday season. Guests are invited to dine at Old Main Market and General's Market for either lunch or dinner on Monday, Dec. 4 for free with the donation of a toy. All donations will provide Christmas gifts to local children through the organization.
Another spirit of giving opportunity occurring annually at SHSU is the People and Pets Food Drive. Staff Council and Faculty Senate encourage departments to collect donations for the drive. Donations are accepted and disbursed to the SHSU Food Pantry and Rita B. Huff Animal Shelter.
The Bearkat alumni community also plays a role in inspiring the spirit of giving on campus. During this year’s SHSU Tree Lighting ceremony and food drive, the Walker County Alumni Association presented a $3,200 check to the Good Shepard Mission.
Tis’ the season to give back through acts of community service. SHSU is providing the resources and the opportunities for students, staff and faculty to be a part of something bigger than just receiving during the holidays.
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