The OSU Institute of Technology annual United Way campaign invites students, faculty and staff to give back to the Okmulgee community and those in need.
“I would like to encourage all OSUIT employees to participate in this year’s events and to support the campaign in some way,” said Dr. Bill R. Path, OSUIT president. “We have the opportunity to ‘step up’ and make a difference in the lives of those around us who are in need or otherwise underprivileged.”
The campaign runs through October with several options for employees to give back. Employees have the option to provide a one-time contribution or provide a monthly donation, participate in the Cowboy Cook-Off and bid on baskets in the silent auction.
“As an institution of higher learning, our purpose is to help people improve their lives,” said Mark Gibble, Faculty/Staff Council chair. “The United Way is another opportunity for us as a campus to help not just individuals, but entire families overcome hardships they may be faced with.”
All proceeds benefit the Okmulgee area. Over 6,900 Okmulgee County residents received assistance in part to donations to the United Way.
Donations to the campaign could mean:
- Financial assistance for families in danger of losing their utilities.
- Books for preschool classroom libraries
- Resume and interview assistance for unemployed workers
- Scholarships for senior citizens to attend activity centers
- A week’s worth of groceries for five families in need
- New shoes and school supplies for children of four families
- 12-week sign language classes for parents of deaf children
Employees and students are encouraged to bring their best chili, stew, soups and desserts to the Cowboy Cook-Off Tuesday, October 30 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Student Union.
The silent auction will take place in the Library and will be available for viewing and bidding during the week of Oct. 21 through Oct. 30. All auction items will begin bidding at five dollars.
For more information about these events or giving to the United Way to benefit Okmulgee area families, please contact Mark Gibble at mark.gibble@okstate.edu.