PHOTO | Elly Stone
Christmastime is rapidly approaching, and Russellville’s community has needs that Arkansas Tech University students can fill. There are various ways to find out what those needs are and how they can be filled, such as Toys For Tots, the Angel Tree, Operation Christmas Child, and more.
There are many ways that students can assist in this holiday season to help bring Christmas joy to Russellville’s community. Aid to the community can come from community service hours spent ringing the bell for donations, running deliveries, and more for organizations like those listed above.
Another form of helping the community can be done through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree hosted by Tech’s Panhellenic Council.
This year will be the seventh year that the Panhellenic Council will host one of the Angel Trees. Students, faculty, and staff interested in serving can select a tag off the tree and fulfill the need by purchasing a gift for that angel.
These tags have all the necessary information on the children: names, interests, clothing sizes, and favorite things. Due to the economic circumstances with inflation, the need this year has continued to grow.
“Angel Tree means so much to students here because it allows students, staff, and organizations to help families in need,” said Iris Alvarado, an emergency management major from Russellville, College Panhellenic Council member. This year Firestone donated bikes to the kids who asked for one. Several organizations and registered student organizations were able to get a few angels, which made it possible for several students to come together for a good cause.
“Angel Tree means so much to me, particularly because I have grown up in the Russellville community. I want to give back and ensure everyone can have the same experiences I had growing up here. Simply fulfilling the needs of one kid makes such a big difference, and I want to ensure I am doing my part,” Madi Terrell, a speech communication major from Russellville, said.
