A&M International to Hold "Volunteer Fair" Thurs., Oct. 29

Texas A&M International University will hold a "Volunteer Fair" on Thursday, October 29 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the University on the Green.

Event organizer Gabriela Mendoza, associate director of Student Development at A&M International, said the Fair is designed to encourage University students to volunteer with local non-profit and governmental agencies.

"About 16 local agencies will participate in the Volunteer Fair. They will provide University students with information on the types of volunteer opportunities the agency has available. Additionally, they will provide brief descriptions of volunteer duties, and a listing of skills required for specific volunteer assignments," explained Mendoza.

The information provided by the participating agencies will be published in a "High on Volunteering" directory of volunteer opportunities. Copies of the directory will be distributed to A&M International students and participating agencies.

Mendoza noted that a large number of A&M International students already participate in volunteer efforts through over 30 student organizations chartered at the University.

"We encourage student organizations to participate in community service projects. A few years ago, we established a Student Organization Community Service Award. This award, which is bestowed annually, recognizes volunteer efforts. Last year's recipient, the Texas A&M International University Police Explorers, tallied over 300 volunteer hours. Several other student organizations also tallied an impressive amount of volunteer hours," she said.

One goal of the Volunteer Fair is to increase volunteerism among students who are not active in student organizations.

"We want to see all A&M International students, including those not active in student organizations, involved in community efforts," she added.

For more information on the Volunteer Fair at A&M International Oct. 29, please contact Mendoza at 326-2280.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu