Community Comes Together in Aiken to Support Moms and Babies
Aiken, S.C. is buzzing with excitement after a heartwarming initiative led by the Student Medical Assisting Association (SMAA) at Aiken Technical College (ATC). This dedicated group of students has taken the initiative to support mothers and babies in need by hosting a campus-wide collection drive. The aim? To help local families through the wonderful Prepare for Babies, a faith-based non-profit organization focused on assisting women facing crisis pregnancies. And the results are nothing short of impressive!
A Big Impact with Generous Donations
Throughout the collection drive, the SMAA managed to gather an astounding amount of necessities for families in need. From more than 1,000 diapers and a whopping 3,400 wipes to 120 containers of baby food, the outpouring of support was remarkable. But it didn’t stop there – the donations also included baby clothing, walkers, bouncers, and pack-and-plays. What’s more, these contributions don’t just help the little ones; they provide much-needed support for their mothers, too.
Addisyn Clements, the marketing assistant for Prepare for Babies, emphasized the importance of such donations. She stated, “Donations like this are incredibly important to the organization because they directly support women in sustaining their pregnancy and child, and aid them in building a strong foundation for their family.” It’s a win-win situation that showcases the kindness and generosity of the local student body.
Students Learning Through Service
The SMAA’s initiative is part of a larger tradition at Aiken Technical College, where students are encouraged to engage in community service projects. This commitment to serving the community allows students to step out of their comfort zones and interact with people they might not otherwise meet, providing a broader perspective of the world around them.
SMAA Advisor Crystal Driesen shared her insights, saying, “Community service allows students to step outside their comfort zones and engage with different communities they may otherwise not cross paths with.” This exposure is not only enriching for the students but also nurtures essential qualities such as empathy and compassion. These traits are invaluable, especially in the healthcare field where understanding and kindness can make a significant difference in patients’ lives.
Why Community Service Matters
It’s also worth noting that participating in community service can impress future employers. Driesen added, “Many employers value community service as it reflects a candidate’s commitment, work ethic, and desire to contribute to the community.” Each of these qualities is essential in the healthcare arena, highlighting how the SMAA’s work is not just beneficial for those they serve but also for the students’ professional development.
Ongoing Support for Local Families
The event speaks to the spirit of giving that runs deep in Aiken, showing how a dedicated group of students can come together for a cause that truly matters. As the holiday season approaches, ideas and efforts like this remind us of the importance of community and supporting those who may struggle during difficult times.
As the donations head off to help mothers and their little ones, one thing is clear: Aiken Technical College students are making a difference, one diaper at a time. With efforts like these, the future looks bright not just for the students involved, but for the families who will benefit immensely from their generosity and compassion.
