“Tradition could start here at Kent State University,” said Albert Melfo, director of annual giving and member of the Campaign for Change, a student-run organization that raises scholarship money through student donations.

The C4C Squad, as its members call themselves, is a student volunteer committee that promotes philanthropy and educates other students about the importance of giving back. There are currently six members on the squad, and they welcome new members each semester.

This year’s campaign, which runs from Aug. 27 to Dec. 9, has raised $845 from 290 donors thus far.

“Any dollar amount adds up,” said Aimee Bell, assistant director of annual giving. “If all students give $1 or $2, that would be enough for a scholarship.”

Campaign for Change gives out one scholarship award each year, which all students are eligible to receive. In order to apply, students must submit an essay explaining a volunteer effort they were involved in.

Melfo said in addition to the scholarship award, any student who donates becomes eligible to win a book award, which is money to purchase textbooks for one semester. All book awards are selected randomly.

“There are eight book awards given yearly,” he said.

Melfo said college students do not realize the state only provides 18 percent of Kent State’s overall operational funding.

“Individual voluntary support is critical to the university’s ability to provide students with the level of education they receive and countless support efforts for students to be successful,” Melfo said.

The C4C Squad will be hosting a tie-dye event later this month. Every student who donates will receive a free T-shirt to tie-dye.

For more information on how to donate and get involved, students can visit www.campaign-for-change.org.

Contact Haley Phillipi at [email protected].