Event encourages students to volunteer

UW-River Falls students had an opportunity to give back to their community and the world at the Pay it Forward event on Dec. 8.

The event, which took place in the Falcon’s Nest of the University Center, had informational tables about how to get involved with the UWRF Habitat for Humanity, sign-ups to become an organ donor and about Ewing’s Sarcoma which is a rare disease where cancer is found in the bone or in soft tissue. Students will also be encouraged to donate to Toys for Tots, write a letter to a soldier and create door decorations for children in hospitals.

“We are so privileged to have the opportunity to get a great education. This is a way for students to do something to benefit other people who are not as fortunate. It is just a small way to pay it forward,” said Community Service Programmer Courtney Haas.

This event is the result of five months of planning, said Haas. The event is the first of its kind, and Haas said she is hoping is hoping for a good turnout.

The idea for the Pay it Forward committee started to form last year between Amy Lloyd and Ali Funk, Haas’ predecessor. Haas took on this committee which has eight members : Jessica Ching-Chich (Yeh), Elise Elliott, Amber Rosenwinkel, Nicole Stage, Regina Johnson, Laura Pochardt and Kirsten Goodroad. Special Events Coordinator Mandie Lombardo has also been working closely with Haas for this event.

On Dec. 4 the committee collected food items at the men’s and women’s hockey games.

The Pay it Forward committee is planning many more activities for the coming semester. The committee plans to work with Locks of Love, have a garage sale to benefit local flood victims, send students to volunteer at Feed My Starving Children, participate in Bike to Uganda and then set up boxes around campus and in the residence halls for Don’t Throw It, Donate It.

As event poster said, “If you have much, give your wealth, if you have little, give your heart.”