AU is currently working to extend help to those suffering from Hurricane Harvey damage in Houston. AU students, staff and faculty have multiple opportunities to support the relief effort.
The university is working with Dr. James Lewis, former Dean of the School of Theology, and his church South Park Church of God. The church and its congregation have experienced damage and loss due to the storm and are in the process of extending help to their community and the families of AU students who have been affected by the hurricane damage.
SGA is also collecting donations to go toward the relief effort. Donations can be in the form of cash, check and Paypal submissions. These donations can be made to the SGA office Monday-Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
A Tri-S trip to Houston is also being planned. The Tri-S trip will take place over spring break and will give students the opportunity to participate in the rebuilding effort in Houston.
“Our prayers and support are with the people of Houston and surrounding areas,” said AU President John Pistole. “We’re grateful for opportunities to contribute our service to their recovery.”
The Black Student Association will be hosting a House Party on Friday, Sept. 22 at 10 p.m. The party, which will be held on the entire second floor of Decker Hall, will be used as a fundraiser to aid in Harvey relief.
The fee is less than $5 at the door, and there will be a VIP section for those who choose to donate additional funds.
“House parties were a great way to build community back in the 90s,” said Pfalin Burton, president of the BSA. “People invited the local DJ, opened their homes and threw a party for everyone to come and dance. As a part of our mission through BSA, it is our desire to share both our culture and community.
“The house party is the first event from us and the Cultural Resource Center this year. This is our second year hosting the House Party, and after the success of our House Party last year, we thought it would be great to bring it back this year.
“With the recent natural disasters, we also felt like our house party would be a great way to raise funds to give back to those who have been devastated,” Burton said. “Our hope is that our AU community can come together to celebrate culture and do their part in giving back to the victims.”