In Support of U of M's Student Philanthropy Week, the University of Memphis Common Cents hosted two events-Wieners for Seniors and Decal Drive Thru-to raise awareness for more proactive green initiatives on campus.
"We are trying to raise money for the Common Cents Green Space fund, which will help fund work for the University Center and scholarships," Timothy McDonnell, coordinator for Annual Giving, said. "We just want to raise awareness around campus about our student organizations, while also doing some good."
Common Cents helped students ease into the week with free food, primarily hot dogs, at Wieners for Seniors Tuesday. While the food was free of charge, students were encouraged to donate to the Common Cents Green Space fund, a student funded and driven project that plans on using the donations to add a bench, tree and commemorative plaque recognizing students who helped in the proposed Green Space project to the Alumni Mall.
During Decal Drive-Thru on Thursday, students and faculty alike drove by the Alumni Center to donate and enter to win a free iPad Mini, while also receiving a decal for their vehicles.
There will also be online donations set up, so someone can still donate if he or she misses the event, according to McDonnell.
"It's a great way for our organization to get our name out there," Rachel Brandon, a Common Cents volunteer, said. "It'll be a chill spot that will be a smoke-free bench, since most the benches are designated smoke areas now."
According to Brandon, the proposed tree and bench will either be added during the upcoming summer or fall semester.
The Common Cents program aspires to encourage more students to help volunteer for not only their organization but also the many others on campus.
"The whole week we'll be having online donations that can be socially shared on Facebook, so others can see what we're raising money for," McDonnell said. "It's basically like a Kick-Starter, but it's also a way for people to see what we're about."
Students who want to contribute to the Common Cents Green Space can donate at commoncents.memphis.edu.
"This is a great way for students to get involved and participate in campus fundraiser that will help better the entire student body," McDonnell said.
