Contributed by Jason Bruno, Degree Department Chairperson
Lafayette Campus's "United Way Day of Action" team included CNA student Tashika Broussard, MA students Tamara Thomas and Narlie Washington, and CJ students Kennetra Gabriel, Randi Milson, Brianne Thomas, Taylor Green, Nolan Perio.
The United Way Day of Action focuses on three principles of PACT UNITED: Education, Earnings, and Essentials.
Our students and faculty volunteered to read to approximately 60 children aged 7 to 8 at the Comeaux Center, in Lafayette. As part of this program, Louisiana culture was integrated, including the crawfish races, which were a tremendous hit with the children.
Students and faculty read the book “Victor Vito and Freddie Vasco” to the children, who also learned the song that goes with the story. A sing-off was held, and the group that won received beaded crawfish necklaces. The children were given coloring sheets and a word search game, and the event was capped off with a Survivor game. Each child received a bag of learning and fun activities to bring home.
The day ended with the following UNITED results for Acadiana:
EDUCATION to help more children graduate on time:
- 585 children participated in shared reading experiences.
- 200 Summer Smarts totes were distributed to children in summer programs.
- 230 children received career coaching tips to help shape their futures.
EARNINGS to help more families become financially stable:
- 230 children were taught money management skills.
- 43 individuals became trained as budget buddies.
ESSENTIALS to help neighbors meet their basic needs:
- Eight projects to support the United Way’s Essentials initiative were completed (including community gardens, preparing and serving meals, repacking and preparing food boxes).
- Three companies hosted internal food drives.
Everyone involved enjoy the event, and our Lafayette Campus looks forward to participating again next year.
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