Mahati Ganji
Last month, we had many fraternities and sororities raising funds for different charity organizations and they were able to exceed all expectations to reach their goals and to help those in need. Although many philanthropic efforts seen last month, such continues on into April as April is our official philanthropy month at Missouri S&T. It is the time of the year when we celebrate the support of our alumni, students, friends and family towards good causes by giving back to campus or their favorite charities. Every April, our campus spotlights the spirit of giving by celebrating Philanthropy month. There are many who give back to local charities, to veterans and to students and the campus, such as the Blue Key Honor Society, who provides scholarships and gives coffee to Student Success Center as a random act of kindness.
The benefits of Philanthropy Month go beyond monetary donations. Missouri S&T offers ample opportunities to educate and engage student body about the idea of giving to others. Buildings like Bertelsmeyer Hall and the Student Design Center would also not be possible without the giving nature of others. This year’s Philanthropy Month donations are going towards the Spirit of Change - Random Acts of Kindness Initiative, which directly impacts the lives of our students every day. They help support a variety of things based on the contributions they receive. A participation gift support of $1, would mean showing your pride in the university. A $5 donation supports current students by paying their parking meters for the day. A $10 donation will go towards the Burns & McDonnell’s Student Success Center to offer coffee and snacks to students during finals and midterms. A $15 donation would provide free umbrellas for students on a rainy day. A $25 donation will go towards partial scholarships for college textbooks. A $50 donation would support a student in need, to help them get back on track. Lastly, a $100 donation helps provide an act of kindness to a student in need in emergency situations. The Random Act of Kindness initiative also supports larger acts of kindness that might be needed. Previously, the initiative supported students whose house got burnt down and a student who was in a car accident. Any small act of kindness will change lives of your fellow classmates and community members. Student donations of $5 or above will be matched by the University Advancement and the gift will have double the impact.
This year’s goal for Philanthropy Month is raise $1,500. To help raise awareness and support, booths have been setup in front of library and Havener on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s from 11 AM to 1 PM, where you can play games and win prizes or have snacks and get free gear. There are events throughout the entire month of April, culminating with the Philanthropy Fair on Friday, April 28th from 11 AM to 2 PM. On Wednesday’s, write what you love about Missouri S&T on a whiteboard and it will be shared on Facebook. Each week, the top 10 students with the most likes on their post on the S&T Facebook page, will win a gift card to various local businesses. From April 17th to 21st, join a student team and compete in a week long scavenger hunt. You will get to learn the history of philanthropy at S&T through the daily clues. At the Philanthropy Fair, make sure to carry some money to donate to charity or participate in some event. Enjoy funnel cake, food and beverages, win gift cards, gear and other giveaways by participating in games or giving back and dunk current students, faculty or alumni in a dunk tank.
Follow the Facebook page for more details on location and time of the events. Anyone is welcome to sign-up to volunteer at any of these events. As a current or future Miner, it is important know the impact of your support! To donate or learn more about the Philanthropy Month visit
