In a heartwarming display of community spirit, students from the University of Mount Union have once again stepped up to support their local food pantry. For the past 13 years, student organizations have come together on Halloween night to collect donations, and this year was no exception. The annual event, organized by the Regula Center for Public Service and Civic Engagement, saw eight student groups fan out across the town, gathering a remarkable 3,832 pounds of food for the Alliance Community Pantry.

Empowering the Community, One Donation at a Time

A Longstanding Tradition of Giving

The Halloween food drive has become a cherished tradition at the University of Mount Union, with students eagerly anticipating the annual event. Over the years, this initiative has amassed an impressive total of more than 45,000 pounds of food, a testament to the unwavering commitment of the student body. Each year, the Greek organizations and clubs are assigned specific neighborhoods around the campus, where they distribute door hangers a few days before Halloween, informing residents of their upcoming collection efforts.

Friendly Competition Fuels Impressive Results

This year's competition was fierce, with the top three organizations showcasing their dedication to the cause. Alpha Phi Omega emerged victorious, collecting an astounding 989 pounds of food. Close behind were Sigma Alpha Epsilon with 666 pounds and Alpha Delta Pi with 538 pounds. The friendly rivalry among the student groups not only drives them to surpass their previous efforts but also ensures that the pantry's shelves are stocked with an abundance of much-needed provisions.

Volunteers Lend a Helping Hand

The success of this initiative would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the volunteers who lent their time and energy to the cause. Pantry volunteers Jim Menegay, Sebastian Schubert, Keith Best, and Libby and Mike Patterson were on hand to assist with the collection and organization of the donations. Additionally, the Sigma Nu students who helped coordinate the event, including Ashley Cooper, Troy Wise, Jacek Strotz, and Aiden Everetts, played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the food drive.

Addressing Food Insecurity in the Community

The University of Mount Union's commitment to supporting the Alliance Community Pantry extends far beyond the annual Halloween food drive. Throughout the year, the institution actively engages in various initiatives to address food insecurity within the local community. By leveraging the collective power of their student organizations, the university is able to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need, providing them with access to essential nourishment and resources.

A Lasting Impact on the Community

The impact of the University of Mount Union's food drive extends far beyond the immediate collection and distribution of the donations. By instilling a sense of civic responsibility and community engagement in their students, the university is cultivating a generation of compassionate leaders who are dedicated to making a positive difference in the world. The annual Halloween event not only addresses the pressing issue of food insecurity but also serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of collective action and the importance of giving back to one's community.