In the film “Tin Cup” (1996), Kevin Costner plays driving range pro Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy, who aims to win the U.S. Open. While preparing for the major tournament, he declares, “When a defining moment comes along, you define the moment…or the moment defines you.”
The Student Government Association is presenting the Western community with a defining moment: Make A Difference Week.
In an effort to promote civic engagement and philanthropy, SGA is partnering with a number of campus and community organizations to sponsor and organize a neighborhood-changing initiative. Make A Difference Week is Oct. 19-24. The week will feature many events and fundraisers including Campus Clean-up, Shantytown and the annual Up ‘til Dawn letter-writing campaign.
Campus Clean-up traces its roots to the presidency of Henry Hardin Cherry. Each year, Western students roam the Hill in the pursuit of campus beautification. The campus improvements committee of the student senate will supply the trash bags and gloves.
Shantytown is an annual fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity. Participants construct shanties and other cardboard creations while learning about the issue of homelessness. The event is primarily sponsored by the Residence Hall Association, and this year’s event will be the 19th edition in the series and is scheduled to take place on Oct. 21 from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.
Up ‘til Dawn is a student-led, student-run philanthropic program that exists to raise support and awareness for the life-saving work done at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. Western has ranked as high as second in the country for highest fundraising totals, which is quite an accomplishment considering the fundraiser is hosted by over 150 colleges and universities nationwide. The letter-writing party will take place on Oct. 20 and 21 in the Cupola Room of Downing University Center.
Other events include the United Way Penny Wars, Volunteering in Progress’ Southern Kentucky Book Fest and Relay for Life’s bra-decorating event outside of DUC on Oct. 22.
In other news, Western’s new Institute for Citizenship and Social Responsibility is hosting a free student retreat on Oct. 16 and 17 at Barren River State Resort Park lodge. Visit www.wku.edu/icsr for information. In addition, the Western Police Explorers are hosting a cornhole tournament at the practice football field on Oct. 24 and proceeds will benefit the campus police program.
Finally, blue books and Scantron forms are now available for free in all fifteen residence halls, the SGA office and the computer labs in Mass Media and Technology Hall and Helm Library.
This commentary does not represent the views of the Herald or the university.
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