A.S. Government | By: Ben Cartwright
“There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.” -Bernard Meltzer
In response to the devastating wildfires that displaced thousands of San Diego County residents, the Associated Students is teaming up with other campus organizations and departments to provide students with outlets to help out those in need.
At the initial outbreak of the fire, San Diego county residents, including students, showed up in record numbers to lend a hand. In fact, some evacuation sites such as Qualcomm Stadium, were over-staffed with volunteers, turning away people who wanted to help out. A sense of community overcame the San Diego region during this confusing, frightening, devastating time.
The fires have been contained, but with all of the damage that occurred, volunteers are still needed to help with the recovery process, which for those hardest hit, can take years.
The Associated Students and other campus departments and organizations, have organized and participated in a number of community service projects to assist victims of the fires, and show thanks to the many public safety personnel and firefighters who fought the fires. Students across campus have expressed a great interest in “doing something” to help out with the continued recovery efforts, and these organized efforts have and will continue to provide students with ways to get involved.
On November 20, a student-led effort recognized firefighters from two fire-houses in the county for their heroic service. Associated Students’ Student Organization Commissioner, Jeridel “Jd” Banks, wanted to put together an event that could be organized as a collective effort between student organizations on campus. Banks was able to enlist the support of several student organizations, Student Activities and Campus Life, and Associated Students to help make this program a reality. Firefighters were able to take part in a memorable evening where the students showed them how much their efforts were appreciated. Plaques were presented to the fire houses.
SDSU’s Student Activities and Campus Life (SACL), through its’ Civic Learning and Community Engagement (CLCE) department, is also providing several opportunities for involvement. The department is working on organizing an ash and debris cleanup project for students to participate in. The County of San Diego estimates that debris removal costs for the average property are approximately $28,000. Costs are significantly reduced by having volunteers do the work. Students interested in a truly hands-on project are encouraged to participate. CLCE maintains a year-round database of students who have expressed an interest in community service projects. To be added to this database and to receive notifications of volunteer opportunities, call 619-594-5221.
The Associated Students External Board collected items throughout the month of November to include in gift baskets that are going to be delivered to local firehouses. External Affairs Board members brought in items on their own, and many passed on the word to other student organizations to solicit more items for the baskets. Some organizations have chosen to make their own gift baskets, as well. Volunteers will deliver the baskets to the fire houses. Also, External Affairs Board members spent part of their meeting in November hand-writing personalized letters of thanks to firefighters that were mailed out courtesy of SACL.
Finally, the Associated Students is planning a Firefighter Auction for the week of Valentines Day. This event will include food, entertainment, and a date auction. All proceeds raised will be given to a charity that is assisting with fire recovery efforts.
The Associated Students is collecting names and contact information from students who are interested in participating in fire relief volunteer efforts. Please call the Government Affairs Office at 619-594-6555 for more information.
