Kent State University at Trumbull's English Club recently completed its second annual book drive and donated more than 140 books to Someplace Safe, Warren's domestic violence shelter.
The group collected new and gently used children's and teens' books in October and November.
"We want to ensure that kids have a book in hand," said English Club president Keith Castillo said. "When a family has to pick up and move into the shelter, they probably don't have time to grab personal items, especially books. We hope these books are something to hold onto and maybe distract them from everything going on around them."
When Dr. Gary Ciuba, professor of English delivered the books, he was told that some of them would be used for Christmas presents and that others would be distributed for immediate use.
Dr. Ana Wetzl, associate professor of English, serves as an advisor for the English Club.
"It's so rewarding to watch them pay it forward on campus and in the community," Dr. Wetzl said. "They follow in the footsteps of other campus clubs, such as the Student Nurses Association, Veterinary Technology Club, and others, who are always looking for ways to give back."
In addition to the book drive, they contributed food items to the campus Thanksgiving Bag giveaway for students in need.
"We are obviously advocates for writing and literature," Castillo said. "We love English. However, we are constantly looking for ways to make an impact on campus and in the community."
If you or someone you know is at risk of or experiencing domestic violence, Someplace Safe has a 24-hour crisis hotline. Domestic Violence Specialists are ready to answer your call 24/7 and can provide resources and referrals to those experiencing intimate partner violence or to those seeking information for a friend or loved one. All calls are confidential. The 24-hour hotline number is 330.393-3005. To see how you can help Someplace Safe, visit https://fcsserves.org/program/someplace-safe.
Students, faculty, and administration who want to join the English Club should email Keith (kcastil3@kent.edu) or Dr. Ana Wetzl, associate professor of English and English Club advisor(awetzl@kent.edu). Club members do not have to be English majors. Find out more about the club at https://padlet.com/ksutenglishclub/home.