Published on January 31, 2019
The Center for Community Engagement (CCE) at Eastern Connecticut State University was recognized for “Outstanding Volunteer Mobilization” by the United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut at a Community Campaign Celebration on Jan. 15.
The award was presented to the CCE for its effectiveness in organizing volunteers in the Willimantic community. Eastern students have volunteered with the United Way Readers program for the past three years at Natchaug School. Student volunteers have also been instrumental in the Day of Caring, a major volunteer effort each fall in locations across Windham. The event is a collaboration between Eastern, the University of Connecticut and the United Way.
Jack Irvine, a sophomore from Cromwell who majors in elementary education and English, and Jocelyn Santiago, a senior from Ledyard who majors in Spanish, have been responsible for coordinating volunteers for the two programs.
“It has been a great experience working with the United Way Readers program,” said Irvine. “My volunteers have loved the experience.”
“Day of Caring is a large-scale event that provides students the opportunity to help community partners with outdoor cleanups, painting and more,” said Santiago. “It’s been a great experience to see the impact that so many students can have in the community on one day.”
CCE Director Kimberly Silcox commented, “Our partnership with the United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut is an important relationship within the Willimantic community. We are proud to work with the United Way staff to serve our community in meaningful ways.”
Written by Michael Rouleau
