September 07, 2011
Sept. 11 marked by appreciation opportunity
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- As the 10-year anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks nears, Southern Illinois University Carbondale students, faculty, staff and the general public all have a chance to express their appreciation to area veterans and first responders.
A table will be set up from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, Sept. 9, in the main breezeway along Faner Hall for students, faculty and staff to stop and make appreciation cards for veterans and local firefighters and police. The service activity project is free and supplies will be provided.
Mythili Rundblad, coordinator of Service-Learning and Volunteerism at SIUC, said her office and students wanted to do something they believe is meaningful and personal to express their thoughts as the grim anniversary approaches. The event is set for Friday as Sept. 11 falls on the following Sunday.
“We believe such a project makes it easier for people to do something and does not demand a time commitment of three to four hours,” she said. “An individual can stop by for 20 minutes and make one card, or can stay for an hour and make more cards. It is entirely their choice.”
The cards will go to local police and firefighters in Carbondale, and to the SIUC Veterans Center, which will also forward them to veterans at the Marion VA Medical Center.