Grant Dillard
Staff Writer
gdillard@murraystate.edu
The Nonprofit Leadership Studies program at Murray State hosted several nonprofit organizations at a free on-campus event on Sept. 9.
Many nonprofit representatives presented information about their organizations and goals to students, along with opportunities to volunteer in the community.
The event was a way for nonprofits to recruit and raise visibility.
One of the nonprofits in attendance was the Humane Society of Calloway County, whose mission is preventing animal cruelty and promoting humane education.
“The mission of this Society is to unite animals and people in the community to enrich their lives and to advocate for compassion and kindness toward animals and people everywhere,” their mission statement said.
Another nonprofit represented at the event was the Murray Senior Center. Established in 1972, their goals are to promote healthy living, nutrition and socialization for seniors.
Dacia Barger, who graduated from Murray in 2006, was hired on as the services director in June 2017.
“Our mission is to support the mature population in our community to improve their physical, mental and emotional well-being so they can lead independent, fulfilling lives,” Barger said.
Also in attendance was Murray Christian Fellowship, which provides support to Murray State students through Christian faith-based endeavors.
Despite never going to Murray State before, member Mike Kerrick took a ministry position in 2008 that was sent out by the Association of College Ministries.
“I did not start MCF,” Kerrick said. “However, five students in 1968 were the catalyst for starting MCF.”
Courtney Decker, physical education major from outside Chicago, said the event was insightful.
“There were many nonprofit organizations that I have never heard of and [I] got a visual of what they had to offer,” Decker said. “Everyone was providing great information for what they were providing for the community.”