Students of Wayne State University's Indian Students Association (ISA) are taking to heart Gandhi's famous quote, "be the change you wish to see in the world."
The group, in conjunction with the organization South Asian American Leading Together, is hosting a national day of service called "Be the Change 2008" on Saturday, October 4th, 2008.
Students will spend their afternoon volunteering for community outreach organizations throughout Detroit such as Gleaners, COTS, Habitat for Humanity, Greening of Detroit, and the Belle Isle Nature Center.
The theme of this year's "Be the Change" is "Solidarity in Service"- which reflects the way in which public service can build coalitions, deepen relationships, and bring about solidarity among people of different backgrounds. In light of this theme, ISA has invited several other Wayne State student organizations to participate.
"Be the Change" was created to inspire and foster civic engagement through volunteerism and community service. Every year, hundreds of participants nationwide collectively contribute thousands of hours of community service in commemoration of Gandhi and his dedication to others.
"This is a prime opportunity to actually go out there and collaborate with many of the student organizations at Wayne State," said Tanuka Datta, community service chair of the ISA. "Be the Change 2008 gives us a chance to work together and give back to the city we call home."
Wayne State University is a premier institution of higher education offering more than 350 academic programs through 12 schools and colleges to more than 33,000 students.