Angela Heisel
Daily Lobo
Many charities and service organizations receive a majority of donations during the holiday season. Likewise, most people donate goods and money in the next six weeks - UNM students are no different.
"People are generous this time of year because they are getting so much and want to give to those that may not be as fortunate," said Anna Tu, president of the Collegiate Kiwanis, an on-campus organization that helps students get involved with community service.
Jeremy Reynalds, executive director of New Mexico's largest homeless shelter, Joy Junction, said that the shelter receives 45 to 55 percent of its donations during the last six weeks of the year.
"If we don't make it now, we won't make it next year," Reynalds said.
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Those holiday donations help Joy Junction and those who depend on it make it through the year, not just the next six weeks.
Student groups are using the holiday season to make contributions to the surrounding community.
The UNM Public Relations Student Society of America is raising money for Joy Junction by raffling off donations from local businesses such as Whole Foods Market, Johnny Carino's, Shelton Jewelers and more from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Nov. 20 and 21 at the Duck Pond.
Prizes include restaurant and grocery gift certificates and some jewelry.
"By donating to Joy Junction, I want to be a part of and support student reach programs that help build the local and statewide community," said Oscar Solis, UNM Public Relations Student Society member. "All UNM students have to do is purchase a raffle ticket, and $1 of each $2 ticket will go to Joy Junction."
But, common of the holiday season, those who give benefit, too.
"It is a great opportunity to meet people, it's a great rÇsumÇ builder and there is the satisfaction of knowing that you helped somebody," Tu said.
Students also learn some of the aspects of community service.
"Students who regularly do community service learn public relations, management and how to organize events," said Gary Ballinger, Greek Life area coordinator.
Other organizations, such as Delta Sigma Pi, have set up a box outside of the Anderson Schools of Management computer pods for food donations.
For students who have only time to donate, certain organizations are always in need of volunteers.
"Stopping in the Student Activities Center is a good way to start, there are always student organizations and organizations like United Way that are coming to us looking for help," Ballinger said.
But, Reynalds said, no matter what you have to give, the most important thing is that people find a way to give what they can.
"Everybody's help at this time of year is extremely important," Reynalds said. "There is no gift to small, whether it be a dollar or a can of green beans, that we don't appreciate."
