Community Engagement plans events at Adams State

ALAMOSA – A new fall semester begins Aug. 20 at Adams State University. With it, come annual events that connect new and returning students with the San Luis Valley and further an important ASU value: to promote a civic community of trust, respect and civility.

San Luis Valley civic and non-profit organizations are invited to participate in the “Here’s the Scoop” Involvement Fair from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 20, on the north campus green, located on the lawn in front of Rex Stadium.

Community groups are also invited to subject projects for ASU Cares Day on Saturday. Sept. 22.

The registration deadline for “Here’s the Scoop” event is August 13. The informational fair combines the Volunteer Recruitment Fair of years past into Welcome Week for greater impact. The fair is sponsored by ASU’s Grizzly Activity Board and is meant to give new and returning students a friendly space to learn about the many ways of being involved on campus and in the community during their university years. ASU student groups and community organizations are invited to participate by hosting fun, creative and interactive booths that introduce students to their purpose or organizational mission. Join the fun by handing out a variety of ice cream toppings as students make the rounds with their “scoops.” Let them know about your ASU Cares project and/or other volunteer opportunities. Past participants have also found the fair it to be a great networking opportunity.

The 18th annual ASU Cares Day will take place on Saturday, September 22. On this day, students, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to join together in service throughout the San Luis Valley. Civic and nonprofit agencies may request volunteers for short-term projects that assist them in meeting a need. Projects typically range from four to six hours in duration and have included work such as harvesting a community garden in Antonito, trail work in Penitente Canyon, and cataloguing museum items in Del Norte.

ASU Cares serves as a kick-off to more ongoing and meaningful connections between the University and San Luis Valley community throughout the year. While many students are involved in short-term volunteerism, there are also faculty who partner with community organizations for student service-learning connected to coursework and internships that provide work experience for career development.

Students can begin signing up for ASU Cares projects once classes begin on August 20. Projects will be filled on first-submitted, first-filled basis.

To register for the Involvement fair and/or submit a project proposal for ASU Cares Day, visit adams.edu/community/asucares. Direct any questions to the Office of Civic Engagement at 719-587-8105.