Bears have an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in southern Missouri this summer. Missouri State University’s support for United Way will start earlier this year. In addition to signing up for group projects like in past years, there are several options for the campus community to participate in United Way’s Day of Caring on June 13.  

Gardening  

Update, May 21: All gardening slots are full. 

Do you have a green thumb? Join us from 8:30 a.m.-noon for a morning of gardening at the Water Wise Demonstration Garden. Bring gloves, bug spray and sunscreen.   

If you’re interested in joining, contact Tammy Jahnke.  

Red Cross supply collection 

Help bring comfort to children throughout southern Missouri who are in need following a disaster like a home fire. Helping to replenish the supply of children’s comfort kits will put a small smile on a child’s face. 

Needs include children’s toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, body wash, hairbrush/comb, wash cloth, coloring books and crayons.  

Drop supplies at one of these locations between May 20 and June 11: 

• Blunt Hall, Room 142 
• Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center, efactory Business Suite
• Carrington Hall, Room 306 
• Hill Hall, Room 312 
• O’Reilly Clinical Health Sciences Center, second floor 
• Siceluff Hall, second floor 
• Strong Hall, Room 115  
• Meyer Alumni Center, sixth floor 

The Red Cross also needs help packaging supplies. Join in from 8:30 a.m.-noon on June 13. Contact Julie Masterson for details. 

Child Advocacy Center supply collection 

You can help the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) stock its shelves to assist families and children in need. From kids snacks and juice boxes, to hygiene items and clothing, CAC supports families in crisis who have experienced harm from abuse or neglect.  

Donations can be made through the CAC’s Amazon Wishlist and shipped directly to CAC or dropped off in person. Items may be donated at 1041 E. Walnut St., Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 

Be sure to add the note, “Given as part of Missouri State University’s support for United Way.”  

Day of Caring participant lunch 

If you participate in any of these events or other Day of Caring events organized by an MSU unit, you are invited to a celebration lunch provided by President Clif Smart. Watch for more details as Day of Caring nears.