Christmas is quickly approaching, and what better time to get in the Christmas spirit and volunteer!
There are many local endeavors for Salt Lake Community College students to take part in, and the Thayne Center for Service & Learning is the resource on campus to learn more about those opportunities.
Thayne Center initiatives include after-school programs, collaborations with non-profit groups, and local advocacy efforts that focus primarily on important social causes. Community partnerships coordinator Rebecca Van Maren encourages students to visit SLCC Sync to explore other opportunities happening in the community.
“You can check out our organizations website … that will give you access to 125 different community partners and different opportunities that are not only happening right now, but also into the future on an ongoing basis,” she says.
In addition to their regular programs and services, the Thayne Center hosts a showcase every semester to highlight some of the service-learning work students have done. At these showcases, selected students can receive tuition waivers for an upcoming semester.
How to help during the holidays
If you want to make an impact in time for Christmas, we have a few ideas.
The Road Home is always in need of volunteers, especially during the holidays. Here you can help families and community members as they overcome homelessness. You can assist in child activities, dinner, and much more.
Many students may lack food and other essentials during the holiday break. You can donate supplies to the closest Bruin Campus Cupboard location or your local food bank, so those in need can have a meal. You can also sign up to volunteer at the pantry.
You can also find Angel Trees at many businesses. These are Christmas trees that have angel paper ornaments that state a specific item on them such as gloves, socks or a toy. What you do is take an ornament, go purchase the item and bring it back to be donated. These are often donated to families in need.
There are so many ways you can be engaged in volunteer work this season. So many people and families are always in need and there is no better feeling than helping those around you. Get involved today!
