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Shelley Osterloh ReportingMost term papers end up stuffed away in drawer, but a group of students at the University of Phoenix used a class project to help children in trouble.
Students studying for a degree in Human Resources were asked to write proposals or grants that would benefit any kind of a non-profit organization, and now the results are going to help children in Utah Foster Care.
Anne Campbell, Student: "I think of the trauma of these kids having to be uprooted from their homes and then to have to put their personal belongings in a trash bag and their self-esteem just goes right down the tube."
So Anne Campbell wrote a proposal to her company, Qwest, asking fellow workers to donate suitcases, duffle bags and backpacks for foster children, and they started pouring in.
Teresa Lobato,, Pres., Pioneers, Qwest Volunteer Service: "It's a wonderful project and we are just pleased to be part of it. And we have the support of everybody, like I said from our president on down to the brand new member that just walked in."
Other students wrote a proposal to RC Willey, which also agreed to donate suitcases. Another student team asked a corporation for a financial donation so that foster kids would have money for extra things like dance or music lessons.
Del Bircher, Teacher, University of Phoenix: “They actually were able to get a grant for $5,000.”
Students say they learned some valuable lessons about asking for support for non-profit causes.
Kyle Erb, Student: "I learned that it doesn't always occur exactly as you planned when you are writing these proposals."
Deroy Taylor, Student: "They look at their budget, they can donate even when it doesn't look like they can donate, because their heart is moved and they say, ‘hey I want to give.’"
Their teacher says the assignment grew into much more than even he expected.
Del Bircher, Teacher, University of Phoenix: "To see them be able to really do something that they feel like will help the community has been wonderful."
So far more than 100 bags have been donated but the goal is 2,000 -- that's how many children are in Foster Care. If you have some luggage you'd like to donate, you can drop it off at the downtown Qwest Office Building.
Luggage Drop off: Qwest Offices
250 East 200 South
To Donate money for items for Foster Children call:
Laurel Ingham at Valley Mental Health Foundation
801-273-6392
