Story by Emily Williams, Features Editor
Photo courtesy of Lydia Swinney
Tucked within the purpose statement of Alpha Gamma Delta, there is a line that states “…to welcome the opportunity to contribute to the world’s work in the community where I am placed because of the joy of service thereby bestowed and the talent of leadership multiplied.”
Staying true to the vision and purpose of their sorority, all Alpha Gam chapters in the U.S. and Canada will hold their annual Week of Service through Feb. 11-17. This will be a week dedicated to special events, giving back to the community and getting their hands dirty for their philanthropic focus, Fighting Hunger.
Tressa Ross, advisor for Alpha Gam, said they have partnered with the American Red Cross to sponsor their annual blood drive, which will be held in the Curris Center Stables on Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Right now there is a critical blood shortage and with the tragic event in Marshall County it is important that our blood resources not be low,” Ross said. “We are encouraging all students, faculty and staff to honor our neighbors in Marshall County and participate in the blood drive.”
Lydia Swinney, director of community service for Alpha Gam, said she is in charge of putting the Week of Service together and setting things into motion.
“This week is so important to us at Alpha Gam because we feel a need to give back to our communities and we want to have a positive impact on a community that has helped shape us as a chapter,” Swinney said. “We want to spread awareness because we would like to prompt and encourage anyone that would like to to get involved serving within their communities.”
Swinney said on Monday and Tuesday, they will be handing out Valentines to employees that work at Murray State, expressing their gratitude for their services here at the university.
On Wednesday, the sorority will volunteer at Needline from open to close.
“This is especially special to us because it gives us a way to get involved with our philanthropic focus which is Fighting Hunger,” Swinney said.
She said the Alpha Gam community is looking forward to serving and helping people during this Week of Service, and she hopes to have a positive impact on campus and within the community.
Students who are interested in giving in the blood drive can pre-register by calling American Red Cross at (1-800-733-2767) or by going to redcrossblood.org and entering the code MSUKY.