2008 Woodie Awards
Students should show philanthropic spirit
Staff Editorial
Issue date: 11/19/07 Section: Soap Box
Harold Alfond, a well known philanthropist from Maine, recently passed away at age 93. Alfond founded the Dexter Shoe Company and is recognized on campus, in the names of the Alfond Arena and Alfond Sports Stadium. All told, Alfond has donated over $8 million to UMaine.
Through his Harold Alfond Foundation, he has donated over $100 million to various causes, including hospitals and other universities in the state of Maine. Alfond was undoubtedly able to donate much more than any student currently enrolled at UMaine right now can.
However, this should not discourage students from aiming to show the same sort of philanthropic spirit that Alfond displayed. Although students do not have the same resources, generously giving with the resources one does have means just as much, as it shows as much personal effort and sacrifice.
We encourage students to do what they can to contribute to good causes this holiday season. Whether it be in the form of money donated to a soup kitchen, homeless shelter, battered women's shelter or other resources, such as clothing or time, all are important and would help local charities to serve the population and improve their communities.
The Black Bear Volunteers is one group on campus that coordinates volunteer efforts amongst a variety of local organizations. This is a good resource for students interested in giving time to improve their community.
Through his Harold Alfond Foundation, he has donated over $100 million to various causes, including hospitals and other universities in the state of Maine. Alfond was undoubtedly able to donate much more than any student currently enrolled at UMaine right now can.
However, this should not discourage students from aiming to show the same sort of philanthropic spirit that Alfond displayed. Although students do not have the same resources, generously giving with the resources one does have means just as much, as it shows as much personal effort and sacrifice.
We encourage students to do what they can to contribute to good causes this holiday season. Whether it be in the form of money donated to a soup kitchen, homeless shelter, battered women's shelter or other resources, such as clothing or time, all are important and would help local charities to serve the population and improve their communities.
The Black Bear Volunteers is one group on campus that coordinates volunteer efforts amongst a variety of local organizations. This is a good resource for students interested in giving time to improve their community.
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