Project S.T.A.F.F.

Project S.T.A.F.F. is Penn State Dickinson's only organization that is completely devoted to community service activities. S.T.A.F.F. stands for Students Taking Action For the Future. Project S.T.A.F.F. was founded in October 2001 by Marissa Savastana and Christina Kepplinger, replacing the Community Service Committee of the Student Bar Association. The purpose of this organization is to provide the students of Penn State Dickinson with notice of, and opportunities for, community service in the surrounding Carlisle and Harrisburg areas.

Mission:
Project S.T.A.F.F. is devoted to the promotion of volunteer opportunities, community service and charitable fundraising within Penn State Dickinson and its surrounding community.

Officer:

Director:	Kimberly D. Martinez
UP Contact Person:	Ronald Ferraro

Activities:
Chili Cook-Off — Students and faculty are invited to show off their chili recipes for the entire school as they compete to win for the Best Chili award. All Dickinson students, faculty and staff pay a minimum cover charge to enjoy chili, beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and a southern style-meal for the evening. The proceeds are donated to the local Food Bank.

Soup Kitchen — This year the Soup Kitchen has merged with Project S.T.A.F.F. Students from Penn State Dickinson visit the local Salvation Army (within walking distance of the school) and set up, prepare and serve food to underprivileged persons. The time committment is minimal, but the service and feeling of helping others is phenomenal.

Big Brothers, Big Sisters — Project S.T.A.F.F. works with the local Big Brothers Big Sister's Organization in Carlisle. Students visit their "Littles" at local elementary schools for an hour a week. Even an hour of mentoring has such an astounding impact on these troubled children.

Sports Buddies — This program is also a mentoring program which is conducted at the Carlisle YMCA. Students can participate in the programs at the YMCA with their "buddies" or bring activities of their own.

Project S.T.A.F.F. also helps the American Red Cross with Blood Drives and participates in Habitat for Humanity, among the various other community service projects.