Alright, so “revolution” is not really the word I’m looking for since its technical definition considers violence to be a part of it, but what I have to wants no part in the violent nonsense of a revolution. Instead, let’s call this a peaceful revolution.
By: Chelsea Oliver
Staff Writer
Alright, so “revolution” is not really the word I’m looking for since its technical definition considers violence to be a part of it, but what I have to wants no part in the violent nonsense of a revolution. Instead, let’s call this a peaceful revolution.
Recently, I decided to revive the Feminist Collective. The mission of the club is to promote equality for women, to strive for a world without sexual and domestic violence and to raise money for an organization that helps victims of sexual and domestic violence. This year we have chosen to donate all of the money we raise at the end of the year to the Blackburn Center.
Now that I’m in a leadership position of an organization that is working towards making the world a better place, I’ve realized that a number of other clubs have the sole purpose of helping others, too. The ones that instantly come to mind are Griffins at Work, SHU-A-THON, Make-A-Wish, Project H.O.P.E., SHU Red Cross Club and STAND.
Griffins at Work, formally known as Habitat for Humanity Club, do their part in smaller Habitat for Humanity projects throughout Greensburg all year round. They also go on a weeklong trip every year, either during spring break or J-Term to work on larger projects.
SHU-A-THON does different fundraisers throughout the year and holds a dance marathon in the spring to raise money for organizations in need. This year, in memory of a SHU alum, the club is giving its efforts to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation.
Make-A-Wish Club raises money every year to grant a child’s wish through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Project H.O.P.E, formally the Social Work Club, visits different shelters and helps where the members see fit throughout the year. The Red Cross Club volunteers through the Westmoreland-Chestnut Ridge Chapter of the American Red Cross and STAND raises awareness about past and current genocides to bring a future without genocide. Now the Feminist Collective raises money to help victims of sexual and domestic abuse.
These seven clubs have started a revolution of making a difference on our campus and in the community. So why isn’t the whole campus involved in this revolution? For those of you that are, you rock. Keep up the good work. But those of you that are not involved, I challenge you to join in this year.
Join one of these clubs or create your own! There are also plenty of opportunities through Campus Ministry to volunteer in events such as Labor of Love or Saturday of Service.
As Ghandi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Seton Hill and the world in general will not get any better if you’re sitting along the sidelines. Do something about the things you don’t like. Make a difference. Change the world for the better, but keep this in mind.
Volunteering is not just something you do because it looks good on your resume; it’s something you put your heart into. What I have personally found out through volunteer work is that the people I am serving give me a lot more than I could ever try to give them. Still, the feeling of knowing you made a difference in any way is indescribable, and you will remember it forever.
So get out there! Now that Seton Hill is on the map because of all the hype around our iPads, let’s be sure it stays there.