[Bridgeview, IL] Northwestern College’s (NC) 100 Days of Giving Challenge continued this month with the announcement of a month-long community food drive. Since October 1, students, faculty and staff have been donating non-perishable foods at the College’s Bridgeview Campus. The food drive, which will conclude on October 31, is open to the public. Anyone interested in contributing can drop off donations at the security desk in the college’s front lobby, 7725 S. Harlem Avenue.
All donations collected will be given to The Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD), which is considered Chicago’s food bank.
GCFD is a member of Feeding America – the national network of food banks – and provides food for the hungry while simultaneously striving to end hunger in our communities. According to its website, GCFD acts as the hub for a network of more than 700 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and other programs that provide food where it is most in need. It also works to address the root causes of hunger, provide public benefits outreach and job training programs, and offers assistance to overcome poverty. More information on GCFD can be found on its website at chicagosfoodbank.org.
Northwestern College’s ongoing October food drive is the third event presented as part of the College’s fall 100 Days of Giving Challenge. The College announced this 100-day philanthropic endeavor in August, challenging its students, faculty and staff to participate either on campus, or in their home communities. Throughout the 100 days, which will conclude on November 27, NC will continue to provide numerous opportunities for its students, staff and faculty to give back in one way or another.
The first 100 Days of Giving project – which remains ongoing – is participation in the Crayola ColorCyle Program. This effort aims to repurpose used markers rather than sending them to landfills. NC has ColorCycle drop-off boxes throughout the campus for collection of markers, highlighters and dry-erase markers that are no longer usable. This program not only serves to keep discarded markers out of the landfills, but it also uses them to create new products (asphalt and roofing shingles) and to generate energy (electricity to heat homes, cook food and power vehicles).
The second 100 Days of Giving project was the collection of clothing, household items and small appliances, which were donated to the American Veterans (“AMVETS”). The donations collected by Northwestern College filled an entire AMVETS truck, making it an extremely successful endeavor.
“There are so many ways to give back to the community,” commented Lawrence Schumacher, Northwestern College President. “Challenging our students, faculty and staff to give back in such simple ways has been an extremely positive thing. Donating a can of vegetables or a gently worn sweater is an easy thing to do. Doing it at their school or place of work has made giving back to the community that much simpler.”
Members of the public are encouraged to drop off non-perishable foods now through October 31 at Northwestern College’s Bridgeview Campus.
About Northwestern College:
Northwestern College (NC) is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, 230 S. LaSalle St., Suite 7-500, Chicago, IL 60604, (312) 263-0456, www.hlcommission.org. The college offers focused career-oriented associate degree and certificate programs with flexible schedules and a supportive faculty. Day, evening, weekend, online classes and online programs are available. More information can be found at www.NC.edu or by calling toll-free (888) 205-2283.