ACUI Region 13 2008 Philanthropy Project

The Value of Tradition, The Power of Change

Are You Ready To Make A Difference?

This year the Region 13 conference at Weber State University will be implementing a new program in an effort to create change and start a new tradition for the conference host schools. For the first time Region 13 we will be asking conference attendees and their schools to participate in a philanthropy project which will benefit a local organization in Ogden, Utah.

When people hear the word "philanthropy" they automatically assume that we will be asking for money, but that is not the case. This service project will instead ask participants and their schools to bring items to the conference which will be used to create "Hygiene Kits" for those in need in the local area. The Ogden Rescue Mission works with local folks in need of extra support during times of transition in their life. From a PhD who lost his job to a brilliant student athlete who became addicted to drugs and lost his college scholarship, this local organization provides a helping hand for those in need.

So how can Region 13 help? This year the conference planning team is asking students and professionals to bring items which can be used in Hygiene Kits that are given to individuals to help them in the right direction. Conference-goers are encouraged to hit the travel section of their local pharmacy stores to bring items that can be used in the kits. From normal toiletries like shampoo, lotion, conditioner and mouthwash to toothbrushes, toothpaste and combs, all types of small toiletry items will be accepted at the Region 13 conference in Ogden, Utah. Don't forget to raid your hotel toiletries when you check in. In addition to toiletry items, the Ogden Rescue Mission asks that participants turn in new or gently used socks and gloves as well. Socks and gloves are put into the kits whenever possible.

This power to change the lives of those in need does not have to just involve the people who are attending the conference. The Region 13 Leadership Team would like to encourage schools to create opportunities for students, staff and faculty on their own campus to get involved with this project as well. The more items that are turned in the more impact we can make in the lives of those in need. When you travel to the regional conference in October, find an empty suitcase to bring all the items and watch the change you've made for those in need. The fact that your university is involved with a service project is fulfilling enough, we know, but in an effort to get as much involvement as possible Region 13 is creating a friendly competition amongst schools in the region. Each school will have their items weighed when they arrive at the conference and the school that brings the most items will be highlighted in an article about the service project in the ACUI monthly magazine, The Bulletin, which is seen by millions of student union professionals and students throughout the world. Of course, any person or school that brings items for the hygiene kits is a winner in our book.

ACUI Region 13 would like this philanthropy project to be the start of a wonderful tradition at the regional conference. While our region is spread amongst a large geographic area, we can come together to impact the lives of many who need support. Please think about how your school will create opportunities to give back to the Ogden community in October. Whether you are a delegation of one person or 15 we can all make a difference by bringing something to the conference. If your school is unable to send a representative to the conference this year, but would still like to send items to support this service project, please contact Monika Rodie from Weber State University about how to ship items in your absence at mrodie@weber.edu or 801-626-7108.

The ability to come together at the regional conference is certainly a treat for many…wouldn't it be nice to give back to those who need it most. How will your school make a difference in 2008?

For more information about this year's conference philanthropy project please contact Region 13 Leadership Team Member Jeff Rosenberry (Jeffrey.rosenberry@colostate.edu) or Monika Rodie (mrodie@weber.edu).

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT A CAMPUS FLIER FOR THIS EVENT!