March 5, 2007: Volume 69, Number 10

Union students join with elementary school to benefit American Heart Association

 

Students from Union College and Yates Elementary School in Schenectady recently joined forces to benefit the American Heart Association.

More than 100 fourth, fifth and sixth graders from Yates came to the Memorial Fieldhouse to learn about fitness, wellness, healthy eating and smart choices in the national Jump for the Heart event.

This was the fourth year Yates participated and the first time  partnering with Union.

"We thought it was a great opportunity for Greeks, Minervas and Theme Houses to work together," said co-organizer Joe Nimon '07 of Wells House. "We've been working on making the ‘union of cultures' here on campus a little cozier and we didn't have to look far to recruit people."

Volunteers from Sigma Delta Tau sorority; Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Delta Phi and Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternities; Wells House and Orange House donated their time and healthy snacks and prizes. The athletic department donated various mats and equipment, while the American Heart Association supplied the jump ropes.

"There was no funding for this event in the Greek budget," explained co-organizer Maggie Nivison '09 of Sigma Delta Tau. "This was a separate event from our service and philanthropy activities, but so many students showed support and volunteered to make this great for the kids."

Orange House volunteers helped pay to transport the Yates students to campus. Volunteers from the Kenney Community Center also helped with the transportation costs.

Fundraising wasn't mandatory, but many students gathered pledges for the American Heart Association. Students jumped rope, bounced on crash mats, learned about healthy eating and participated in various athletic events, including a Frisbee and football toss and dance contest.

 

 

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