Northeastern Illinois University’s Office of Alumni Relations and College of Education coordinated donations from more than 40 students, employees and alumni to raise more than $1,140 to provide backpacks for children who are without permanent housing from Cornerstone Community Outreach.
Organizers donated more than 100 backpacks during an Aug. 12 Back to School Bash at Cornerstone. Additional donations also will go to the center for continued support with school supplies.
During the Back to School Bash, College of Education Associate Dean Alberto Lopez rallied the children with an “Education is the Answer” chant. He encouraged preschool through 12th-grade students to finish school and turn to education in challenging times.
“I am thankful to be among alumni, students and friends who recognize the importance of giving back to the community and proud to support alumni like Mindy Taylor (B.A. ’11 Social Work), who works at Cornerstone on these community initiatives,” Alumni Relations Assistant Director Jessica Mueller said.
Both Northeastern and Cornerstone look forward to continuing their partnership in the future.
