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Columbus State Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Offers Helping Hand to the Community
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Columbus – It was a time of giving in the Columbus
State University Athletic Department this afternoon. The
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) internally organized an
“Essentials Drive” for Valley Interfaith Promise (VIP),
a 501(C)(3) non-profit, non-denominational organization, as their
November service project.
Valley Interfaith Promise is a program that provides shelter, meals, transportation, and support services to homeless children, under 18 years of age, and their families. The goal of VIP is to assist families from homelessness to permanent housing and employment. It was reported in 2010 that VIP had over 90% of their participants succeed in reaching the aforementioned goal. They are assisted by host congregations throughout Muscogee and Russell counties, as well as partnering daycare centers.
While Thanksgiving automatically brings about the idea of food drives, SAAC decided to collect donations of equally important items that are necessary for a shelter, like VIP, to provide such an outstanding service to our community. Among the items donated were soap, bleach, laundry detergent, shampoo, deodorant, bottled water, baby powder, diapers, disposable razors, garbage bags, and lotion.
“I think it is so important for our athletes to be, not only involved, but educated on the needs of the Columbus Community and find ways to give back, if possible,” said Courtney McQuaker, SAAC Advisor. “VIP gave us a wonderful avenue to do this. I am more than proud of the teams that participated in the drive today! The items donated will make a difference. It is my hope the student-athletes understand they are a part of that difference, whether directly or indirectly.”
Women’s Golf team members Jennifer Brueshaber and Kimesha Anthony and women’s soccer member Kayla Brown were on hand to help deliver the items to VIP, located on 3rd Avenue in Columbus. They were given a tour of the facility by VIP Director, Victor Feliciano.
Thanks again to all participating teams and SAAC reps for getting the necessary items!
For more information on Valley Interfaith Promise, please visit
their site at www.valleyinterfaithpromise.com.
