Alcorn State University News December 2014 >From Alcorn with Love: Giving matters Alcorn State University's student volunteers in the Division of Marketing and Communication spread holiday cheer to the less fortunate every holiday season. The students, along with help from the marketing and communication staff, worked with surrounding community leaders including Linda Davis with Entergy to collect toys and donate them to needy families in Vicksburg, Miss. Friday, Dec. 12. Vice President for Marketing and Communication Clara Ross Stamps was impressed with the students' eagerness to lend a helping hand to those in need. "One thing that's great about Alcorn students is that they're passionate about helping others," said Stamps. "We bleed purple and give gold. It's a blessing to help others and our students experience the joy of knowing that their efforts will bring a sparkle to the eyes of the less fortunate this holiday season." The students were really excited about their effort to put smiles on the faces of dozens of children in areas adjacent to the university. Alcorn senior and agriculture major Lillie Winston knows what it feels like to be in the shoes of the less fortunate. Her experience as a child is what drove her to help others. "It is important to donate to less fortunate kids during the holiday season because it will restore their hope and joy," said Winston. "I was one of those less fortunate kids that lost all hope in Christmas, but it was some kind, caring people who donated toys and other things to my family that awakened my hope and joy in Christmas." Jasmine Thompson, who is also a senior, believes the donations will show the kids to love despite their situation. "Spreading love to them allows them to share their love with others despite their circumstances," said Thompson. "By blessing them, they will see that there are genuine people in the world that sincerely care about them." Junior Jamie Hall feels the donations will take the financial burden away from the parents who struggle to provide gifts for their families during the holidays. "Some kids aren't able to enjoy Christmas because of their family's financial situation," said Hill. "By giving toys to them, it relieves lots of parents and it places a priceless smile on their faces." Junior Justin Knight felt a sense of accomplishment when he donated and encourages others to do the same. "It is a good feeling to give back and everyone should want to give to others, not only on Christmas, but every day of the year," said Knight. "Everyone should donate because if you were in their shoes, you would want someone to do the same for you." Sophomore Dee Isaac's main focus for donating is filling the children's hearts with overflowing joy. "I feel that donating would really put a smile on their faces," said Isaac. "All kids should have the opportunity to be happy during the holidays just like everyone else." Vicksburg Housing Authority Executive Director Ben Washington is extremely grateful to Alcorn State University for caring enough to lend a helping hand. "Thank you Alcorn on behalf of our residents," says Washington. "Your donation of toys provide more than just a gift on Christmas morning. It provides hope and encouragement for a better way of life." SANDRA M. PHOENIX Executive Director HBCU Library Alliance sphoenix@hbculibraries.org<mailto:sphoenix@hbculibraries.org> www.hbculibraries.org<http://www.hbculibraries.org/> 800-999-8558, ext. 4820 404-702-5854 Skype: sandra.phoenix1 1438 West Peachtree NW Suite 200 Atlanta,GA 30309 Toll Free: 1.800.999.8558 (LYRASIS) Fax: 404.892.7879 www.lyrasis.org<http://www.lyrasis.org/> Honor the ancestors, honor the children.