As the events of Sept. 11 unfolded, the country watched as Americans from all over the United States pitched in to help. People offered food, water, medical supplies – even their blood.
SMU students were also there to lend a hand and offer their support. Now that the first anniversary of that devastating day is approaching, the department of volunteer services at SMU is helping its students get more involved.
The annual Volunteer and Non-Profit Fair will be held Wednesday from noon to 2:30 p.m. in the Hughes-Trigg ballroom. The fair will help commemorate the Sept. 11 anniversary in light of President Bush’s initiative to give back to the community.
“This fair allows students to express their citizenship by helping neighbors and those close to you,” said Rebecca Bergstesser, director for the office of volunteer services.
In light of the Sept. 11 anniversary, students are anxious to get involved.
“I think it’s a good opportunity for students to reaffirm their commitment to the community,” said Austin Curry, a junior electrical engineering and math major.
Sophomore Brooke Bida agreed.
“I’m glad that SMU gives me a choice to volunteer because I wouldn’t know where else to go to get involved,” she said.
As of Monday, more than 40 agencies and organizations have signed up to attend.
Organizations include Bryan’s House, Genesis Women’s Shelter, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, Victims Outreach and Youth Villages.
These agencies are interested in groups of students who can do many jobs in a short period of time vs. one individual person who can do few things over a longer period of time. Bergstresser encourages philanthropy chairs student organizations to attend and mobilize their groups to get involved in the Dallas community.