Numerous Mavericks give back by volunteering in the community
Margaret Mead once said to never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world — and she was right. When it comes to giving back, Mavericks know best. They’re bold in their fight to make a difference, their actions are heartfelt and when their community calls, they answer.
In December 2019, Thomas Creel graduated from Western Colorado Community College with an emergency medical technician (EMT) technical certificate, but before he did, Creel and his classmates vowed to serve the population they would soon care for.
They partnered with Mesa Mall to advocate for the homeless and held a community supplies drive for winter necessities like coats and blankets.
“Because of the winter conditions in Colorado, we’re likely to see many of these individuals on the job. We wanted them to know who we are and that we really do care. We wanted to be proactive and not just show up, pick up and take them to the hospital.”
The WCCC EMT students provided Solidarity Not Charity and Frozen Hobo Outreach with 40 coats, 40 sweatshirts, 100 blankets, 20 pairs of socks and 30 sets of hand and feet warmers.
Before Thanksgiving, Colorado Mesa University’s sorority Gamma Phi Beta partnered with a few fraternities on campus and made sandwiches for the homeless.They also regularly write letters to active military members and local veterans.
“The girls in the sorority are passionate about helping others. I think we all know in our hearts that we can do so much for other people and it’s just out of kindness,” said Gamma Phi Beta Chapter President Peyton Barkat.
The sorority also partners with Girls on the Run every year. The nonprofit inspires young girls to be healthy and confident using experience-based curriculum including running. CMU sorority members volunteer at the local 5k race and also work with 100 participants to create crafts.
“Gamma Phi’s motto is building strong girls and we’re all about female empowerment of all ages and that’s what Girls on the Run is about. It’s about empowering girls to know that they can do so much more than they think they’re capable of.”
The CMU Men’s Lacrosse Team spends Wednesdays at Orchard Avenue Elementary School helping kids read.
“As soon as we walk in, they’re up out of their desks and meeting us at the door,” said lacrosse student-athlete Mike Ezell.
The list of CMU organizations, clubs and departments that give back to the community is long. They’re Mavericks from all different backgrounds who are committed to changing the world one act of kindness at a time. •
The Alumni Association Board of Directors is encouraging all Mavericks to give back in April — National Volunteer Month.