Monmouth University offers a variety of opportunities available to students to give back to the community. For students that are interested in helping those with special needs, Monmouth’s Council for Exceptional Children Club (CEC) is the perfect organization to join. This club hosts, volunteers, and participates in events for both students and adults with disabilities.
President Brittany Burd of CEC club, is a senior English and elementary education major with an endorsement in teaching students with disabilities (TSD) encourages more students to get involved.
“We are always looking for more volunteers and have already begun planning some great events for this year! Every volunteer opportunity is a chance to make a difference,” said Burd.
In the past, the organization has participated in events such as the Special Olympics, the Thanks4giving plunge, and Polar Plunge races. CEC also works with FRA and POAC in the area to make a difference. In addition, they have hosted and attended events at the Shore Center and Hawkswood School.
Dr. Carol McArthur of the Department of Special Education, said, “We are proud to have an active organization on the Monmouth University campus. The MU students have worked with various community organizations to support special education students and their families in many ways. These students are already proving to be leaders in the field as they organize events, coordinate with other professionals, and engage with students with special needs.”
The Council for Exceptional Children is an excellent organization to be a part of on campus. My freshman year I became a member and it has influenced me into pursuing a career in Speech-Language Pathology. When I entered Monmouth as a freshman, I was undecided on what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. After joining CEC club and volunteering at the Shore Center, I realized that I wanted to continue to help those with special needs. After much research, the field of speech-language pathology seemed to be the best fit for me. I am now enrolled in the undergraduate prerequisite courses for the graduate program. If it was not for CEC club, I would not have chosen to become a future SLP.
Even if you are not an education major, get involved in CEC club. It is a great way to give back to the community and spread awareness about disabilities.
During the month of April, the organization hosts bake sales, and sells magnets and t-shirts to promote the Autism Speaks international “Light It Up Blue” campaign. Along the way, while you are helping these children and adults with special needs, you will find that they in some way help you.
Although, they have disabilities that might hinder their ability to communicate, to learn of their strength and perseverance is truly inspiring. They teach you to appreciate all the blessings that you have been given in life.
Meaghan Wheeler, a senior secondary education and history with a minor in race and ethnic studies student believes, “Working with children that have special need opens your eyes to a whole new perspective. I have learned to look at life in a new way and my heart has been exposed to innocent, pure, and unconditional love.”
If you would like to get involved in the Council for Exceptional Children, there will be a meeting this Wednesday in McAllen Hall room 222 at 3.
Also, follow them on Instagram (cecmonmouth), Twitter (cecmonmouth), and add them on Facebook (MU CEC Club). Join an organization on campus that will not only impact your life but possibly the lives of others within your community.
PHOTO TAKEN FROM childprotectionmonth.org
