UC Merced students, alumni and staff during a cleanup project at Lake Yosemite.
About 70 current UC Merced students, alumni and staff spent the morning picking up litter and pulling weeds in an effort to beautify areas around Lake Yosemite last Saturday, March 18, as part of “Bobcats Give Back — A Day Of Service”.
The lake and park were chosen for the cleanup project since they’re a short walk from campus. Students, staff, faculty and community members often visit the area.
The event was part of Student Philanthropy Month, a month-long initiative dedicated to building a culture of philanthropy and awareness at UC Merced. Over four weeks, students learn about philanthropy and its impact at the university, the community and beyond. UC Merced’s first Student Philanthropy Month was held last year.
Students can give back by volunteering at events like this one, mentoring other students, providing financial support for initiatives like scholarships and much more.
Free UC Merced T-shirts and pizza were provided for volunteers at Saturday’s event, which was hosted by the UC Merced Student Alumni Association, Office of Alumni Relations and Community Engagement Center.