Cans Around the Oval
Northern Colorado’s largest one-day food drive
This year is the exciting 25th Anniversary of Cans Around the Oval, a local event bringing together the community while fighting hunger. The Student Leadership, Involvement and Community Engagement office of Colorado State University hosted the event Oct. 12.
Chuck Gill - Assitant Director to the Food Bank of Larimer County
Fighting Hunger
Hunger can be understood as a consistent lack of food in a household that cannot replenish the required nutrients for healthy bodies. In 2009, the Larimer County Food Bank reported 27,430 new visits by people in need. Larimer County’s population in 2009 was recorded at 296,696 leading to an approximate of 10.8 percent of the population requiring the help from the food bank. This year is Alex Berna’s first time participating in the food drive, “I think it is great that CSU has dedicated one day to helping others in the community. It is a humbling experience to be out here volunteering and I’m proud to see others helping too. CSU is a giving school and it’s nice to see so many people caring for others.” As a freshman, Berna believes volunteering at special events like Cans Around the Oval helps build new relationships too with fellow volunteers.
Take Action – Collection Day
Cans Around the Oval allows CSU students to become more involved with the entire Fort Collins community outside of campus life. Student Affairs graduate student, Sarah Stephens, said, “This event has opened the eyes for many students across campus. Although students may not think hunger is an issue on campus, families to the east and north of campus do suffer from hunger. By hosting this large food drive we are able to jump start the fight to end hunger this winter.” Volunteers from student organizations, Greek life, as well as the academic departments work throughout the day organizing and weighing the donated food. These volunteers also donate themselves. In 2010, Cans Around the Oval raised 66,000 pounds of food and over $39,000. This
years can total and donations are still in count.
No comments:
Post a Comment