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Students partner with community agencies

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Community power met university power Wednesday, Sept. 5, when about 80 area agencies were on campus recruiting the volunteer services of faculty, students and staff at the Ninth Annual Community Service Opportunities Fair.

The fair, held in the Memorial Court in front of the Kennel Bookstore from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., has attracted more than 2,800 participants resulting in nearly 700 students signing up for volunteer work each year, said President John D. Welty.

"This is truly the epitome of a public-funded institution of higher education utilizing its most precious and valuable resource - its students - to give back to the community while at the same time providing these students with the learning opportunity of hands-on experience," Welty said.

The event is sponsored by J. Michael Ortiz, provost and vice president for academic affairs, Students for Community Service, University Student Union and Career Services.

In addition to allowing community service agencies the opportunity to access the large pool of potential Fresno State volunteers, the fair provides other benefits, said Ortiz.

Among the agencies represented were the Central California Blood Center, Big Brothers-Big Sisters, Friendly Visitor Service, EOC Sanctuary, Habitat for Humanity, Fresno Metropolitan Museum, KVPT Ch. 18, Poverello House, Stone Soup of Fresno and Tree Fresno.

Fresno State Food Services and the Dairy Unit donated refreshments for the occasion.

Back to University Journal, 9/10/01 Issue