In the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, the Philanthropy Committee held its annual carnation sale. Students could purchase a carnation for a special someone, a friend, or themselves, and recipients could pick up their flowers throughout the day on Feb. 14.
Katie Gagnon ’21 and Gabrielle Wierda ’21 are co-presidents of the Philanthropy Committee and led the carnation sale. Katie explained that Committee’s goal is “to raise funds and awareness of prevalent issues.”
The Committee meets weekly on Tuesdays at 7:30 PM to discuss their agenda, including future events and fundraising goals. During the fall semester, members of the the committee promoted causes and organizations they were passionate about, and the committee donated to these groups. The carnation sale had a similar purpose.
The proceeds from the sale, as well as from the majority of events to be held in the spring semester, will go towards the committee’s scholarship fund. According to Gagnon, “[The scholarship fund] is called the Young Civic Leadership Scholarship, and it goes to a local high schooler in the Utica area with a strong passion for community service.” Last year, the Philanthropy Committee granted the recipient of the scholarship nearly $2,000.
On February 11th, 12th, and 13th, the committee members staffed tables in McEwen, Commons, and the Diner, where one carnation sold for $2 and three sold for $5. In total, about 220 carnations were sold. The sale brought in nearly $400, which will go towards the scholarship fund.
Emma Belfiglio ’22, a new member of Philanthropy Committee, enjoyed being part of the sale.
“I think what Philanthropy Committee is doing is so great,” she said. “Not only is the Committee benefitting other organizations, but also the Hamilton community.
“The carnation sale was a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, while also raising awareness for a noteworthy cause. It was also fun being a recipient of carnations. I am looking forward to being a member of the committee and helping to plan and volunteer at future events.”
Grace Halligan ’22, is also a new member of the Philanthropy Committee.
“As a Jan, I love being part of such a vibrant community on the Hill,” she said. “This club allows me to pursue my interests and make new friends.
“During my shift of selling [carnations], it was fun to interact with passerbyers in McEwen. Most were eager to get upstairs to eat lunch, but once we told them we knew they had someone special they should buy a carnation for, they were enticed. People’s reactions were hilarious.”
Later in the semester, the Philanthropy Committee will host a dumpling sale, as well as several bake sales, raffle baskets, and other fundraising events.
