Rummage/Bake Sale Raises Funds

Hurricane Relief

November 20, 2005

Even though the hurricanes have come and gone, their aftermath will affect thenation for years. When Hurricanes Katrina and Rita ravaged the gulf coast and surrounding states, students at SCNM were personally affected since many had family members in the areas hit hardest by the storms. It was not enough for the SCNM community to begin raising funds via the College website; the students at SCNM wanted to personally put their hearts, not just their minds, to work and make a difference.

Imhotep Circle and Naturopaths Without Borders, two community outreach organizations on campus, joined forces to organize and host the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine Hurricane Relief Rummage Sale held on Saturday, Oct. 8. Student volunteers worked diligently the week preceding the sale to organize the tremendous number of donations and transformed the main campus lecture halls into a literal shopping bazaar.

Rummage items were donated by SCNM students, faculty and staff as well as from individuals from all over the Phoenix valley. "We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support we received from the school as well as the surrounding areas," said SCNM student and Imhotep member Cheryl Kieta. While shoppers had their pick of a variety of rummage items for use in home or office, students sold dozens of healthy baked goods to the public too. The baked goods were a hit with children and successfully added to the overall fundraising effort.

The rummage and bake sale raised more than $1,600 that was donated to hurricane relief funds.

"For one excitable and unforgettable weekend, Imhotep Circle and Naturopaths without Borders transformed SCNM from a center for learning into a center for caring and service," explained Keita. "Thanks again to all of those who donated, baked, shopped, volunteered, and just spent time with us. Always remember that if you light a lantern for another, you will illuminate your own path."