My College Cares participants give back to the community
Utility Lineman Program and Commercial Truck Driving Program students clear a play
yard from overgrown trees during their My College Cares efforts.
As a non-traditional student at Meridian Community College several years ago, James Carter immersed himself in a culture of giving back. With his classmates, he eagerly participated in the college's annual day of community service known as "My College Cares."
Fast forward to this year, on a bright October morning, MCC students united in a common cause, extending their helping hands to James Carter and his organization, the Carter Foundation. Their mission: Prepping for an upcoming Halloween festival hosted by the foundation. Carter expressed his gratitude, saying, "We truly appreciate the help."
Preparing for the festival was just one of the myriad tasks MCC students, faculty, and staff undertook during the 2023 My College Cares event. Brandon Dewease, the associate dean for student engagement, said some 550 MCCers, including over 60 college faculty and staff members, dedicated their time and efforts to giving back to the community through this event.
"We are deeply committed to our community," Dewease said. "As a community college, we invest in our area." He emphasized the motivation behind My College Cares extended beyond merely lending a helping hand—it was about fostering connections among individuals.
One MCC student, Millie Gallarno described her My College Cares experience as "absolutely the best." She had volunteered at the Meridian Museum of Art, driven by the desire to do something meaningful for others. Shmaya Cole, another student, shared a similar sentiment as she sorted and priced objects at the Hope Village Thrift Store. "This was my first time volunteering, so I wanted to try doing something for others,” she explained.
Leta Palmiter, director of the Illuminations Center for Dyslexia, was overwhelmed by the support her organization received from this year’s My College Cares efforts. "We had a ton of help. They came in with willing hearts, and we packed up boxes. They were amazing," she said, acknowledging her appreciation to the dedicated faculty and staff team captains.
The College's My College Cares committee orchestrated the event. Its members, including Dr. Cedric Gathings, vice president for engagement; Mandy Hurtt, director of recruiting; Kelli Wallace, director of housing and student activities; Nedra Bradley, executive director of parent services and student support; Marion Whiting, specialist for college outreach; and Dewease worked to make the event a success.
In the end, Dewease reflected on the day's achievements with satisfaction. "Absolutely," he said, "the day as a whole was a success, a testament to our unwavering commitment to our community."
For more information about MCC, visit meridiancc.edu.
My College Cares 2023
My College Cares is a one day event of volunteer service where the entire college focuses on giving back to our community. MCC faculty and staff serve as team captains and supervise student volunteers. Volunteer services can include painting, cleaning, yard work, or mostly anything that needs done for our community!