Spirit of giving lives here
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Many volunteers say you can learn more about yourself and the Iowa City community, and give back at the same time, through service work.
“The feeling you get from volunteering is amazing,” said UI student Claire Nolan. “Once you’ve done it once, you immediately understand why people enjoy it.”
Dance Marathon
Nolan served as a family representative for Dance Marathon 2008. The organization brings together teams of volunteers to raise money for the UI Children’s Hospital. The final event is a 24-hour dance party in which volunteers come together with the families of children affected by cancer. This year, Dance Marathon raised more than $1 million. You’ll probably see participants on the Pentacrest all year — take a flier from them.
Relay for Life
Another volunteer opportunity similar to Dance Marathon is Relay for Life. The event is sponsored by Colleges Against Cancer and raises money and awareness for the American Cancer Society.
“You create a team of up to 15 people and each raise about $100,” UI student Spencer Branson said. “Then, at the event, at least one person from the team walks for the entire 12 hours.”
Branson — who has participated in the relay the past two years — said he chose to do Relay for Life not only because it’s a great cause but because it’s a lot of fun, too.
UI Hospitals and Clinics
Students interested in careers in the medical field — or anyone, for that matter — might try UI Hospitals and Clinics to get a firsthand look at what their future occupations could entail. There are volunteer orientations at the beginning of each semester, the next being on Aug. 30, said Jean Reed, the director of UI Hospitals and Clinics volunteer services.
You can learn about the application process on the UIHC’s Volunteer Services website.
“It’s a great opportunity for student volunteers, because they get direct patient experience and the opportunity to observe and work in many different specialties,” Reed said.
Students have the chance to work in inpatient areas, the Intensive Care Unit, physical therapy, burn treatment, pediatrics, and more, she said. Student volunteers must commit to at least three hours per week for two semesters.
Some lesser-known volunteer opportunities on campus:
• Pen Pal Program: Students who volunteer for this program write letters once a month to their pen pal from nearby West Liberty Elementary. Volunteers will also meet their pen pals on campus to show them the university and act as role models.
• UI Environmental Coalition: This organization is always looking for volunteers to assist in such projects as weatherproofing homes in the Iowa City area and helping make a greener campus.
• River Run: The UI River Run is a 5/10 K race that takes place in the spring. All proceeds go to Uptown Bill’s Small Mall, which is owned and operated by people with disabilities and staffed by volunteers.
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