Beyond the Yard- Feature Story Summer Issue 2024
The inaugural Howard University Alumni Day of Service, held June 2, was a resounding success, bringing together volunteers from Howard University and corporate partner Citi to support families in need in the District of Columbia. In partnership with U.S. Hunger, volunteers gathered at the Armour J. Blackburn University Center to pack an impressive 20,000 meals, which were donated to Bread for the City.
The event, designed to foster community engagement and promote the spirit of service, kicked off with enthusiastic participants checking in at 9:30 a.m. for the first shift and 11a.m. for the second shift. Volunteers donned Howard University gear and comfortable shoes, ready to make a difference.
A few alumni and staff were selected to be table leaders and enabled participants to work in an assembly line, packing meals with efficiency and enthusiasm. The event was marked by the lively sound of cowbells, celebrating each completed box, creating an energetic and competitive environment.
“We are incredibly proud of the turnout and the dedication shown by our alumni community and our community partners,” said Bilal Badruddin, PhD, director of Alumni Relations at Howard University. “The Alumni Day of Service was a goal outlined in the Howard Forward Strategic Plan, and I’m glad the inaugural event finally came to fruition. It exemplifies the Howard spirit of giving back and making a tangible impact in our community.”
The collaboration between Howard University, Citi and U.S. Hunger was instrumental in the success of this event. U.S. Hunger provided essential supplies, including gloves and hair nets, ensuring a seamless and productive day of service.
“Sunday is often considered a day of rest, but what a way to spend a Sunday morning giving back to others,” said Michelle Thornhill, head of U.S. Community Relations at Citi. The partnership with Citi was possible because of an introduction made by Howard University Trustee Mark Mason, who is the chief financial officer at Citi.
“Based on the success of this Alumni Day of Service, I am confident that the next will be even better,” affirmed Badruddin. As the day concluded, volunteers left with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed commitment to service. The success of this inaugural event sets a promising precedent for future Howard University Alumni Day of Service events.