Students make a difference in the community

Oct. 2, 2008

Every year an increasing number of students go above and beyond to clean up the city of Whitewater. Nearly 700 students are expected to participate in this year’s Make a Difference Day on Friday, Oct. 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at Cravath Lake Park.

This event is not only important to the Whitewater community, but also to UW-Whitewater staff and students.  Make a Difference Day gives UW-Whitewater staff, students and community members the opportunity to give back to the city they cherish.

“Make a Difference Day is a wonderful way to connect the campus and the community,” Kim Clarksen of Career and Leadership Development said. “[It is] a combined effort to beautify the city of Whitewater, serve its residents and provide opportunities for students to get to know one another and explore the city. Whitewater is joining in a national campaign to improve lives and communities throughout the United States.”

Make a Difference Day gives students a chance to feel part of the Whitewater community while also allowing community members to see UW-Whitewater students in a positive light. Students are able to interact with community members to create long lasting relationships while making an impact in the community.

“The event would not be possible without the 
university and community involvement,” Matt Amundson, Whitewater parks and recreation director, said.  “It's a great event that brings 
the university and the community together to make our community a better
 place to live.”

Last year there were more than 900 student volunteers, which Make a Difference Day organizers found were too many for the number of projects that needed to be completed. As a result, this year Career and Leadership Development purposely limited the number of volunteers to 700.

There will be a number of projects going on throughout the city including cleanup, painting, planting and more. The large number of projects offered gives everyone the opportunity to do their share in cleaning up the community.

This event is collaboratively planned through the Office of Student Affairs, the City of Whitewater Park and Recreation Department, with assistance from the Public Works Department, Residence Life and Career & Leadership Development.

For more information, contact Kim Clarksen at 262-472-1112 or by e-mail at clarksek@uww.edu.