Over 60 Global Programs employees volunteered for a variety of organizations, including United Way, Centre County Parks and Recreation, Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center, and “Cardz for Kidz.” Activities ranged from pulling invasive plants at Millbrook Marsh to loading and sorting items for United Way’s “Trash to Treasure” initiative.
“We tried to find a few different types of volunteer activities,” said Dan Kuhn, incoming chair of the Staff Advisory Committee (SAC). “I think they were great examples of our office – and the University as a whole – thinking globally while acting locally.”
Amber DeCosmo, current chair of the SAC, agreed.
“Our group learned about important work happening right here in Central Pennsylvania,” she said. “We didn’t realize just how much conservation efforts are happening in our own backyard – literally, when you think about Millbrook Marsh.” (The Marshlands are owned by the University and are located less than a mile from campus.)
Afterwards, volunteers gathered in the barn at Millbrook Marsh, where they held a Staff Appreciation Day. The Staff Advisory Committee gave out “Just for Fun” awards before the volunteers explored the Marshlands in the afternoon.
“The day gave us the ability to team build and work with colleagues we may not see on a regular basis. Global Programs has 90 employees, housed in two buildings far across campus, so many times these events are the only time some of us interact,” Amber said.
“Participation was totally voluntary, and we were thrilled that so many pitched in,” she added.
Global Programs holds multiple Days of Service each year. The next will most likely occur in the Fall.
For more information on how you can get involved with some of the great work happening in Central Pennsylvania, visit the links below:
- Volunteer at Millbrook Marsh (Centre County Parks and Recreation)
- Volunteer Opportunities at Centre County United Way
- Cardz for Kidz
- Shaver's Creek Environmental Center