American Humanics hosts book drive
By: Jessie Wilks
Issue date: 11/17/09 Section: News
|
The 65 members of the student organization are collecting gently used and new children's books to benefit the local nonprofit group Special Kids and Families, which assists special needs children.
Students, faculty and staff can drop off books in the marked bins at three locations on campus: the Ned R. McWherter Library, room 123 of McCord Hall and the Campus Recreational Intramural Services office.
The book drive will further demonstrate that students are actively involved in philanthropy on campus, said Tyler McMillon, senior psychology major at The U of M.
"I like the idea of the book drive this year because it's more of a hands-on project that allows students to step out in the community to lend a helping hand," McMillon said. "It shows that U of M students are genuinely passionate about making a difference and not just collecting donations."
The executive director of Special Kids and Families will be on campus Friday to collect the books and watch members of American Humanics teach Campus School children - who are also donating children's books and decorating bookmarks and cards.
Simi Atolagbe, graduate student and president of American Humanics, said members can use the opportunity to teach the students lessons about the importance of helping others.
"Reading to the children is a lot of fun, and it is truly interesting to hear what the kids have to say," she said, "Students also give their personal experiences of how they serve the community as a philanthropist."
Abigail Smith, graduate student and member of American Humanics, said she hopes the book drive will bring needed awareness to Special Kids and Families and the group's mission.
"I am hoping that this will give students more of an incentive to reach out to the Special Kids and Families," Smith said.
The union of Special Kids and Families and American Humanics was a perfect fit, Atolagbe said.
"The book drive represents what our organization is all about. We are a group of students who are committed to helping others," Atolagbe said. "This year, our theme, which is literacy, reflects our book drive."
Association members, who are all in The U of M American Humanics nonprofit management and leadership program, hosted a campus-wide food drive last year and donated the collected items to the Mid-South Memphis Food Bank.
"The food bank was experiencing a shortage at the time," she said. "American Humanics teamed up with students of The University and made a successful contribution."