UNCP students present service learning
projects at Appalachian State

By Claude Chavis, Jr.
Staff Writer

UNCP students headed west to Appalachian State University (ASU), Nov. 4 to participate in the two day, 13th annual North Carolina Campus Compact’s Student Conference (NCCC).

The NCCC encompasses a broad range of activities designed to increase the effectiveness of those working to make higher education institutions vital agent of civic renewal.

Photo by Claude Chavis, Jr. UNCP students heading out on a five and a half hour bus ride to join in the North Carolina Campus Compact’s Student Conference.

The compact provides training, advocacy, grants and funding and campus consultation among other things.

The UNCP students arrived at the conference Nov. 4 after a five and a half hour bus ride

They joined students from several other universities at Shelter Rock, a faith-based ministry that distributes about four tons of food, medical supplies and clothing to the poor in the remote areas of Appalachia.

The students helped assemble gifts and care packages to be distributed in Appalachia and Louisiana. Later, back at ASU, students participated in a series of reflection sessions to share service-learning experiences.

Nov. 5, participants had a choice of up to six workshops to attend each hour. UNCP speakers included Claude Chavis who spoke on "Service Learning and the Preservation of Cultural Heritage;" Lea Winfield, Charlie Davis, Nakeshia Lewis, Jether James, who spoke on "Campaigning for a Better World;" and Deb James spoke about "Helping Hands - How You Can Make a Difference;"

Photo by Claude Chavis, Jr. Students pass a ball of twine around the room and share their service learning experiences with each other.

Felecia Bartow, Director of Campus Programs for Action Without Borders, spoke during lunch.

Bartow’s organization is nonprofit and is based in New York. It works with individuals and organizations to share ideas, information and resources to help build a world where all people can live free, dignified and productive lives.

Between the workshops sessions, posters representing the various colleges' projects were displayed in the Student Union and explained by the students who prepared them.

UNCP was represented by Shannon McCall, who presented a poster on "The Greenhouse at Riverway;" Lyndsey Daniels, who presented a poster on "The Peer Study Support Program;” and Lenora Parker who presented a poster on "Leadership & Service Opportunities Program (LSOP) Volunteer Services."

The closing session ended at 4 p.m. and students boarded the bus to return home.