Unity 4 Orphans intern, Lauren, is spearheading a collection drive for feminine hygiene products for the teens girls we serve at the orphanages in Mexico. She will be collaborating with her Gamma Phi Beta sorority sisters and classmates at San Diego State University to host a “I support Girls. Period.” campaign during the entire month of April.
When Lauren, Unity 4 Orphans’ intern from San Diego State University, was asked to create a community service project, she decided to focus on the girls she met on a service trip to the orphanage in Tijuana. Though it’s not the first necessity most people think of, feminine hygiene needs are a regular part of the teenage girls’ lives, and the lack of access to quality products is often a hidden effect of poverty. Providing these items brings dignity to young women who have already been through so much. Lauren’s thoughtfulness and creativity is admirable and much appreciated!
A Philanthropic Plan of Action
Lauren has placed collection boxes at the Gamma Phi Beta house and the Women’s Resource Center at SDSU, where she works part-time, as well as a few other locations on and off campus. She is also posting fliers at school and in the community, with hopes to bring in a large number of donations for the young ladies we serve south of the border.
“These internships invite cultural exchanges and build understanding to prepare the next generation of global and local social justice leaders.”
– Dean Monica J. Casper
A recipient of the Mundt Scholarship, Lauren is pursuing experience with a social organization outside of school, and we’re glad that she chose U4O. This industrious and creative team member also shared some insights after visiting the orphanages on a recent service trip.
Getting to Know Girls in Need at the Orphanages
It didn’t take long for her to connect with the young ladies at the orphanage, which brought this awesome act of service into being, something she calls “intentional outreach.” By recognizing a need and finding others to join her in her efforts, she has created an important and unique opportunity to make a significant impact.
“I encourage others to go on a service trip and see for themselves; it’s one thing to have a desire to help, but seeing the need firsthand will inspire and change you.”
– Lauren Salaz, U4O Mundt Scholar Intern
This collection drive for feminine hygiene products for teenage girls at orphanages in Mexico will run through the month of April. You can help by spreading the word, dropping off product donations in the form of pads, panty liners, and new underwear, or making a contribution on Venmo towards the purchase of products. Contact us for more information!!
