On November 22, faculty, staff, students and alumni of the University of the District of Columbia joined together to distribute hundreds of Thanksgiving food baskets to families across the District as part of Project GiveBack. Coming a week after UDC leaders volunteered at DC Central Kitchen, the event further underscored UDC’s steady focus on civic engagement and year-round community support.
Starting early in the morning, volunteers formed fast-moving assembly lines as they packed produce, nonperishables and holiday staples throughout the day. Others checked delivery lists or helped families load baskets into cars. It was hard work, but its difficulty was offset by its importance.
“The University of the District of Columbia was honored to host this effort which helped provide Thanksgiving meals for more than 5,000 households throughout the metro area. This kind of work reflects the heart of our mission and the kind of community we want to build,” UDC President Maurice D. Edington said.
Organizers were “elated to partner with UDC to make a difference in our community” — a sentiment Edington echoed.
“It was inspiring to see our campus filled with people who came out early on a Saturday with one goal in mind: to support families across the District,” Edington said.
As UDC prepares for future service initiatives, the Project GiveBack partnership will continue to be a point of pride and a clear demonstration of UDC’s mission in motion.
“At UDC, making an impact is one of our top priorities,” said Edington. “Events like this demonstrate how we live that mission every day through education and service that reach beyond our campus. I encourage everyone to stay connected, support one another and remember how far a simple act of kindness can go.”
Project GiveBack describes its mission as providing a vehicle for corporate firms, nonprofits and professionals to give back to the communities where they live and work. The organization coordinates programs that benefit individuals and families in need — especially children — with a focus on holiday food distribution and other essential support. To get involved or volunteer, visit their website.