Tsunami Relief Week begins Jan. 31

In an effort to provide relief to the hundreds of thousands of victims of the southeast Asian tsunami disaster, organizations and volunteers across campus are putting on Tsunami Relief Week, Jan.31-Feb. 4. The week of events is an opportunity for faculty, staff and students to get involved in helping tsunami victims through a number of ways, while contributing to a donation goal of $50,000.

Activities during Tsunami Relief Week will include:

Clothing Drive: All week. Sponsored by the YMCA and Community Service Learning Center. Donations may be dropped off at all residence halls, Greek chapters, the YMCA at Gladish Community Center downtown, the International Center in CUB B25, or on the Terrell Mall. Donations will be used in the rummage sale.

Faculty Forum: Monday, Jan. 31, 6-8 p.m., Smith CUE 202. Sponsored by the Community Service Learning Center. The forum, titled “Tsunami Impact and Recovery in Southeast Asia,” emphasizes raising awareness about the economic and social impacts of the tsunami. 

Cultural Night and Potluck: Tuesday, Feb.1, 6-8 p.m., Gladish View Room downtown. Sponsored by the International Student Council and Campus Involvement. The evening will focus on cultural awareness of affected areas through entertainment, information and food.

Benefit Dinner: Friday, Feb. 4, 6-7:30 p.m., Gladish View Room downtown. Sponsored by the International Center. An opportunity to recognize volunteers and sponsors of Relief Week. Tickets will be available at the Cougar Card Center, on Terrell Mall, and at the door; tickets include admission to the service auction. Prices range from $15 for a student to $150 for a table of 8-10 people.

Service Auction: Friday, Feb. 4, 7:30-9 p.m., Gladish View Room downtown. Sponsored by the International Center intern staff. Students, staff, faculty and volunteers may contribute a service for sale that will be auctioned off. Services include yard cleanup, car washing, landscaping and more.

Rummage Sale: Saturday, Feb. 5, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Student Recreation Center. Purchase a grocery bag for $10 and fill it with clothes donated through the clothing drive.

For more events and to obtain more details about Tsunami Relief Week, visit the website at www.tsunamireliefweek.com. A planning meeting for the week will be held Thursday, Jan. 27, 5 p.m., in CUB B25.