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| 04-05-2004 | Previous edition: 04-02-2004 |
        
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Printer-friendly version First Boiler Blast brings beauty to local outdoor areas
Staff Writer Volunteers gathered Saturday morning to participate in the first Boiler Blast, a campuswide community service project. The day began at 8:30 a.m. in the Memorial Mall with a continental breakfast and motivational speeches from Purdue president Martin Jischke and Pablo Malavenda, associate dean of students. "Volunteerism is important for people of all ages," Jischke said. "Through community service, we learn about leadership, people, ourselves, and discover a love for lifelong service." Volunteers passed out 250 flowers to local families, planted flowers and trees, did landscape cleaning and made other visible improvements at Purdue, West Lafayette Tree Fund, Columbia Park Zoo and Tapawingo Park. Students were excited to give back. Sarah Knapke, senior in the School of Science, said it was a good event to take part in because it gave her the opportunity to help out by giving back to the community. There were four main groups involved: the Interfraternity Council, Panhellenic Association, Purdue Student Government and Boiler Volunteer Network. Many fraternities and sororities also participated. "Twenty-two Greek houses and 569 people volunteered," said Kim Martin, assistant dean of students for community engagement and involvement. Martin was pleased with the number of participants and is looking forward to doubling that number for next year’s Boiler Blast. "We are already seeing what we can improve and change for next year," said Scott Banich, IFC director of philanthropy and service. Donations were made to contribute to the volunteer efforts. State Farm Insurance donated $2,500 to the event while Freckles Graphics, a grant from Schleman Hall, the Interfraternity Council and the Boiler Volunteer Network accounted for a number of financial donations. Tyler Miller, community service director, said the event ties the community together. "Boiler Blast is an event that brings together a diversity of organizations and people to say thank you by helping the greater West Lafayette community," said Miller. Printer-friendly version |
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