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September 10, 2007
Public health students ‘Rollins-teer’ to help Atlantans in need

from staff reports

More than 350 Emory University public health students rolled up their sleeves on Aug. 30 to help stock shelves at a community food bank, beautify homes for area seniors, and participate in other volunteer activities during a daylong initiative to help Atlantans in need.

Rollins School of Public Health teamed with Hands On Atlanta to host the first-ever “Rollins-teer Day.” Students volunteered with local charities that addressed challenges related to poverty, homelessness, distribution of medical services and supplies, chronic disease and environmental conservation.

The various volunteer activities, held in conjunction with new student orientation, introduced incoming students to the broader context of public health work and programs in Atlanta communities of need, said Kristin Unzicker, the school’s assistant director of international affairs and special programs.

Rollins-teer Day was designed to enhance students’ opportunities for service and learning while creating lasting relationships throughout the community. The day helped students think about how to tackle issues that adversely affect thousands of people in Atlanta, Unzicker said.

Volunteer sites included Atlanta Community Food Bank; Atlanta Union Mission; Furniture Bank of Metro Atlanta; Medshare International; Project Open Hand; Samaritan House; Senior Citizen Services; and West Oakland Community Park.

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