Aiken County, S.C. Comes Together to Support Students Affected by Hurricane Helene
In Aiken County, South Carolina, the caring community is stepping up to support local students who have faced tough challenges due to Hurricane Helene. The Foundation of Aiken Technical College (ATC) has announced an exciting online raffle fundraiser that will run until November 14. This initiative aims to provide much-needed relief for students dealing with the aftermath of the storm.
A Shift in Focus
Originally, the ATC Foundation had planned its annual Scholarship Fundraiser and reception event for October 17. However, in light of recent events, they decided to cancel the event and redirect their efforts toward meeting the immediate needs of students through the Student Emergency Support Fund. This fund is specifically designed to help students navigate challenges related to food, housing, utilities, technology, and other essential needs that could affect their studies.
Support from Students and Community
Since Hurricane Helene made its impact felt, the college has received over a dozen requests for assistance from students facing difficulties. President of ATC, Forest Mahan, expressed the importance of a holistic approach to student support in his recent statement. “At Aiken Tech, we take a holistic approach to serving our students,” he said. “Being student-centric in our focus on student success means going beyond meeting academic needs. We know that sometimes, what our students are dealing with outside of class can make focusing on their education challenging.”
President Mahan emphasized that the funds raised through the online raffle would provide vital relief for students coping with obstacles that interfere with their education. He also extended gratitude to the ATC Foundation and its board for their adaptability in addressing this urgent need.
How to Get Involved
Excited about the raffle? It sounds like a fantastic way to contribute while having a bit of fun! Those interested in participating or learning more about the event can visit the ATC Foundation’s website. It’s a great opportunity not just to support students but also to engage with the community and show that we care.
Community Spirit Shines Bright
It’s truly heartwarming to see the Aiken community rally together in times of need. Events like these highlight the spirit of generosity and the collective effort that communities can achieve when they unite for a common cause. The online raffle serves as a reminder of how we can make a difference in the lives of those around us.
Beyond the Raffle
In addition to the raffle efforts, the ATC Foundation is committed to ongoing support for the students. This initiative is part of a broader mission to ensure that all students have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and personally. Educational institutions play a crucial role in fostering resilience and providing safety nets, and ATC is clearly stepping up to the plate.
Looking Ahead
As we approach the final days of the raffle, it’s an excellent time to reflect on how we can continue supporting the students at Aiken Technical College and beyond. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every little bit helps. Together, we can ensure that students don’t just survive but thrive, even in challenging times.
Mark your calendars for November 14 and get ready to participate in the online raffle! Let’s come together to support education and assist our local students in overcoming the hurdles they’re facing.
