s-r~~i"~ SUPPLIES TO the needy When the Health Science Club agreed to participate in the Augusta Day of Giving on Sept. 3, 2011, they did not realize that their small actions would make a large impact on members of the community. The Health Science Club was an organization for students preparing for careers in health professions such as dentistry, physical therapy, pharmacy, occupational therapy and veterinary medicine. The goal of the club was to allow students to learn from people in their desired professions and practice community service to help them reach their career goals. As part of their community service, the club was asked by Harding post office worker Virginia Bradley, a member of the church in Augusta, Ark., to participate in the Augusta Day of Giving.The group worked at the National Guard Armory handing out pamphlets on healthy living, coloring sheets for kids, sample-sized bottles of hand sanitizer, toothbrushes and toothpaste to residents of Augusta. Club historian senior Melissa Hall said the event was an excellent way for her to get involved with the club and the community. "I wanted to be more involved in the Health Science Club this year, so I looked for every opportunity to participate in the club's events," Hall said. "We were told about this day at the beginning of the year, and I thought that it would be a great day to serve and participate." Club president senior Nick Scanlon agreed that the project helped the Health Science Club establish itself in the area. "I think it was a good opportunity to branch out into the surrounding community near Searcy and do something simple to make a difference," Scanlon said. The Day of Giving gave club members the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and provide information and products to people who might not have otherwise received them. "It's the first time they've ever done that type of service project," club sponsor Deborah Duke said. "I think it's a great idea for us to reach out to the communities around us. Of course, those who go into health care are expected to live a life of service. That's what it's all about, being able to practice now what they want to do in the future." Hall believed the e.-.'perience would lead to more opportunities to serve in surrounding communities. "We are called as Christians to serve, so it makes complete sense to join some kind of group that will allow you to do just that," Hall said. "It's a great way to spread God's love throughout the local areas. We must remember that the mission field is not just in foreign countries but in Searcy and neighboring cities as well." Ashley Rosenbaum Organizations f 23
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