Minor Myers, Jr., the 17th president of Illinois Wesleyan University said that students should “go into the world and do well, but more importantly, go into the world and do good.” This sentiment extends beyond the compounds of Illinois Wesleyan University and essentially defines the student body here at Bucknell. Regardless of class year or major, Bucknellians work extremely hard at succeeding not only in their academic careers; they put forth just as much effort and time in giving back to their communities and making the world a better place.
On October 28th and 29th, students at Bucknell and people all across the United States were glued to their televisions and computers in order to be updated about Hurricane Sandy and her unrelenting wrath. America watched as states along the eastern seaboard fell victim to Hurricane Sandy’s dominating winds and treacherous rain. In the days that followed, government officials and emergency responders evaluated the extensive damages that Hurricane Sandy left behind. While Bucknellians got in contact with friends and family living in the areas devastated by Hurricane Sandy, we simultaneously wondered how we could play a part in the relief efforts. Below are ways that Bucknellians in Lewisburg can help those affected by Hurricane Sandy and restore the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions to their former state.
The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster
The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster online database (http://www.nvoad.org/states) has a list of major non-profit organizations in all American states and territories that participate in disaster relief work. If you would like to donate or volunteer to assist those affected by Hurricane Sandy, FEMA and the White House suggest this state-by-state directory as the best place to start.
American Red Cross
Many blood drives in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions have been canceled as a result of Hurricane Sandy and, as a result, the American Red Cross has a need for blood donations. To schedule a blood donation, visit http://www.redcrossblood.org. To make a monetary donation to the American Red Cross, text “Redcross” to 90999, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit http://www.redcross.org.
The United Way
The United Way, a non-profit organization that works with a coalition of charities and foundations to combine efforts in fundraising and support, has created its own Hurricane Sandy recovery fund. To contribute, visit http://www.uwsandyrecovery.org or text RECOVERY to 52000.
NYC Service
The office of Mayor Bloomberg is urging people to sign up for volunteer opportunities in response to Hurricane Sandy through NYC Service (http://www.nycservice.org/index.html). On the site, people are able to find volunteer opportunities at or donate money, food, clothing, supplies and blood to organizations such as the New York Coalition Against Hunger, The Red Hook Initiative, New York Blood Center, New York Cares, City of New York Department of Parks and Recreation and more.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is helping those displaced by Hurricane Sandy by providing them with hot meals, water and shelter. To send a $10 donation to the Salvation Army, text the word STORM to 80888 and confirm the donation with the word “Yes.” In addition to making a monetary donation, local Salvation Army branches are accepting used clothing and furniture donations for those whose houses and belongings were destroyed by the storm.
As you do well in your classes and extracurricular activities here at Bucknell, please consider doing good for those affected by Hurricane Sandy by donating to or volunteering for one of the organizations listed above.