University continues to raise support for troops

By: Lauren Staten

Posted: 11/17/08

Western Illinois University sponsored a series of events beginning on Veteran's Day in support of our troops and veterans. The Student Assistance and Parent Service Center and the Office of Student Activities make these events possible.

Kicking off the week is a program called the Support Our Troops Campaign. The purpose of the campaign is to collect items to be sent to American troops currently stationed overseas in locations such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

On Nov. 11, the campaign held a booth at the University Union Concourse where items could be dropped off. Veterans and active service members could apply to get a free Western Illinois sweatshirt, courtesy of the University Union Bookstore.

For those who missed the chance to make a donation on Veteran's Day, the campaign will run through Dec. 2. Drop-off locations are scattered throughout campus, including: WAVE and OASIS offices in the Student Organization Center, Union lower level; OSA and SAPSC; Knoblauch Hall advising center, Room 110; Donald S. Spencer Student Recreation Center; Admissions and Financial Aid offices (first floor, Sherman Hall); University Advising and Academic Support Center, Olson Hall 248; and Document and Publication Services.

A list of suggested and prohibited items can be found at any of the locations, or by visiting www.student.services.wiu.edu/sac/events/donationitems.asp.

Any non-perishable food items, cards and anything else that can brighten the day of a service member will definitely make a positive impact. Monetary donations and small items will generate support for troops overseas.

"Beef jerky, Twizzlers, Girl Scout cookies and sunscreen seem to be among the troops' favorites," said Kathy Meyers, SAPSC assistant director and coordinator of the Veterans Resource Center.

Stop by any of the listed locations for more information, or contact Kathy Meyers at 309/298-2092 or at KJ-Meyers@wiu.edu, or Mary Kubasak, the OSA assistant director for volunteer services, at 309/298-3232 or MA-Kubasak@wiu.edu.