The University of Olivet criminal justice (CJ) students take the mission of doing good to others seriously. With their eyes set on careers helping others, students in the Criminal Justice Honor Society strive to give back to the community. This Halloween they’re not only giving back to the Olivet community, but also to the American Cancer Society.
Each semester, the group plans a charitable event or fundraiser to show just how much they care about the community.This fall,the team put their minds together and brainstormed a master plan – a Halloween-themed Relay for Life fundraiser that will allow both student participation and community interaction, serving as yet another way to bond the college to the city it calls home. It’s the biggest event the group has ever planned.
“The Criminal Justice Honor Society’s main goal is to give back,” Larissa Ludwick, president of the Criminal Justice Honor Society, explained. “We have a strong community base and all agree that service should be at the center of our lives. We’re always looking for new ways to give back. We’ve been strategizing how to make this event work for two years, so I’m really excited to finally make it happen. I can’t wait to see how it turns out – I know it’ll be amazing.”
Relay for Life is the signature fundraiser of the American Cancer Society (ACS), a nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer. Relay for Life fundraisers serve to bring communities together, remember loved ones lost, honor survivors of all cancers and raise funds for ACS. All proceeds from OC’s Relay for Life fundraiser will go directly to the organization.
The activities planned from 5 – 11 p.m. in the Square are far too numerous to count off on just one hand. An annual staple on Halloween, the Student Athletic Advisory Council will pass out candy to trick-or-treaters. To build off the tradition, CJ students will also host carnival games with prizes for both children and college students to enjoy. A snack station will sell fall favorites like donuts and cider, and there will be many raffles for gift cards and OC swag. DJ Tate 5, OC alumnus Travon Tatum ’16, will be on hand to keep the party going with music.
The main event is a costume contest between OC athletic teams, Greek houses and clubs. Judging begins at 7 p.m. The winners of each group will be awarded a golden pumpkin.
“Not only will this event be really beneficial, I know it will be a lot of fun,” Larissa said excitedly.
OC Nation can’t wait to see you on Halloween — it’s sure to be spook-tacular! For more information, contact Mike Sherzer, assistant professor of criminal justice, at msherzer@uolivet.edu or 269.749.7537. Learn more about Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society.