EDITORIAL: The University of Maine’s Athletics, in partnership with various community organizations, is organizing several charity events this holiday season. Additionally, numerous on-campus clubs and organizations are hosting their own holiday drives. Whether you’re a fellow Black Bear or a part of the Orono community, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved during the months of November and December.
Participating in these charity initiatives by donating an item or attending the events is a simple way to help support those facing financial hardship and strengthen community bonds through these contributions.
It’s a wonderful opportunity to embody kindness during the season of giving, and UMaine is making it possible for everyone, so there’s no excuse not to.
Scheduled warmth drive events presented by sports teams include the Men’s Ice hockey drive that took place on Nov. 15, the Women’s Ice Hockey drive that took place on Nov. 21 and the Women’s Basketball drive scheduled for Dec. 7 at 6:00 p.m.
UMaine athletes will also team up with Marden’s Surplus and Salvage for a sock drive during the Women’s Basketball game on Dec. 1. Supporters are urged to bring socks and place them in bins located in the lobby area.
In honor of the late Holden Police Chief Chris Greely and his 25 Days of Kindness initiative, the Women’s and Men’s Ice Hockey teams will join forces with the Holden Police Department for a food drive on Nov. 22 and Dec. 6 at 7:00 p.m. Fans are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to help this cause.
The Men’s Ice Hockey team and the University Credit Union will collaborate on another food drive on Dec. 5. All donations will go to the Bodwell Center for Service and Volunteerism’s on-campus food pantry and clothing exchange, Black Bear Exchange.
Maine Athletics will also host their Teddy Bear Toss during the first intermission of the Men’s Ice Hockey game on Dec. 13. Supporters are encouraged to bring stuffed toys to toss onto the ice when announced. Maine Athletics staff will then collect the toys and distribute them as gifts to local organizations.
It’s during moments like these where fans unite to support our athletes and have fun while also giving to those in need to spread some holiday cheer.
Other on-campus organizations such as UMaine’s Golden Key International Honor Society is currently running their annual warmth drive from Oct. 26 to Dec. 7. They are collecting new or gently used winter apparel such as hats, mittens, gloves, scarves and warm socks to help keep local children warm during this winter season. All donations from this event will go to support local elementary and middle schools.
The drop-off locations include the Buchanan Alumni House, the New Balance Student Recreation Center, the Wilson Center, the Bodwell Center, the information booth in the Memorial Union and True North Realty’s locations in both Bangor and Lincoln.
While there are those who believe that holiday charity drives manipulate emotions and induce feelings of guilt, potentially making potential donors feel obligated to donate rather than giving out of genuine generosity, donations are voluntary. It’s important to remember that everyone has the freedom to decide if, when and how much they want to contribute to a cause. There may be persuasive appeals, but ultimately, the decision to donate is a personal choice and not one that is forced.
This holiday season, donate whatever you are able to, whenever you are able to. There’s no judgement, just thankfulness from those who receive the items.
By donating or participating in these holiday charity events, we can provide significant assistance to individuals who are in need. This season of giving offers a valuable opportunity to show compassion and empathy, and with UMaine offering accessible and fun events for everyone, getting involved is both easy and meaningful.
