Huntington Times

Marshall University is set to host its annual Community Cares Week, an event aimed at mobilizing volunteers to enhance and beautify the university's facilities. The initiative, scheduled for May 20-23, calls on alumni, community members, students, faculty, and staff to join forces for the collective purpose of supporting the institution.

University President Brad D. Smith highlighted the significance of the event for the community. "I have been amazed and humbled by the response to Community Cares Week these last few years," Smith stated. He expressed his appreciation for the participants, saying, "I’m moved and inspired by the response to this invitation to join us on campus and to invest in helping ‘take care of the house.’ It brings the Marshall family closer and gives us a chance to collaborate and contribute to projects not only on campus, but in surrounding communities, as well."

Last year's Community Cares Week saw a notable increase in volunteer engagement, with 1,088 people contributing 3,415.5 service hours. Among them, 785 volunteers participated directly on Marshall's campuses, while 303 others engaged through their local Marshall alumni chapters. Additionally, about 100 staff members managed the projects across various shifts, with a dozen staff and cabinet members providing meals and organizing daily raffle draws.

The upcoming event is open to the public, with volunteers receiving a T-shirt, a complimentary lunch, and the opportunity to win door prizes. Interested individuals can find further details and register at www.marshall.edu/cares.