Students of Monmouth University’s Communication (CO 320) course – Small Group Communication under the guidance of Professor Shannon Hokanson–are taking part in Service Learning Projects to connect with diverse populations beyond the University’s campus. The students selected non-profit organizations of interest to them in which they planned, designed and executed an event to financially support their community partner.
According to Professor Hokanson, “a service-learning project links the teaching and learning strategies of the community service with the academic study so that each strengthens the other”.
“We all learn and share each other’s knowledge and experiences; every party is an equal”.
One group, “The Puppy Protectors”, selected the Monmouth County SPCA for the benefit of their fund-raising efforts. The group composed of – Jordan Bornstein, Nicole Giordano, Olivia Lipp, Eileen Jones, Michael Losasso and Hunter Rainis selected an off-campus event to reach outside of Monmouth’s community and an on-campus event for within.
The Puppy Protectors’ off-campus event was a “Paint and Sip” night at Asbury Park’s, Uncorked Wine Inspirations establishment held on Wednesday, March 29th. Those in attendance painted a beach scene entitled “Evening Stroll on the Shore”. The night was an awesome experience and a huge success, selling out with 30 attendees, and raising $300 to benefit the SPCA.
Their second event was an on-campus baked goods sale which included brownies, cupcakes, and a variety of breads. Team member, Olivia Lipp, and employee of Radio Station – B98.5 -“The Jersey Shore’s #1 Hit Music Station”, was able to provide entertainment on campus creating a fun atmosphere for all. The SPCA provided an information table and three service therapy dogs enhancing the knowledge about one of the services provided by this organization to those who stopped by. Olivia and her mom brought “Oliver”, the family’s therapy dog who provided licks and tail wags to all his greeters. This event raised another $265.00 to benefit the animals at Monmouth County’s SPCA, for a grand total of $565.00.
Courtesy of:
Eileen Jones (s0671873@monmouth.edu or X5493)
PHOTO COURTESY of Eileen Jones
