ALVA, Okla. — Members of the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Social Work Association of Tomorrow (SWAT) chapter recently completed their annual Compassion in Action Dignity Drive.
The student-led organization, advised by Codi Harding, director of social work field education and assistant professor of social work, works to enhance students’ educational experience through service projects and community engagement.
“Each year, this event provides SWAT members with a meaningful way to help meet the basic needs of people in their local and nearby communities,” Harding said.
This year’s drive gathered a variety of essential items, including toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, laundry detergent, feminine hygiene products and other hygiene supplies. These donations will assist individuals receiving services through the Youth and Family Services of North Central Oklahoma Family Court Systems.
“Access to basic hygiene is a foundation of human dignity,” said Alana Shotpouch, a senior social work major from Jay who serves as SWAT secretary. “By coming together as a community, we can ensure that no one is left without the essentials of care. Every contribution strengthens the health, confidence, and unity of our neighbors.”
One of SWAT’s ongoing goals is to partner with local agencies and support the needs of the individuals they serve. The dignity drive is a key initiative that allows students to make a direct and meaningful impact.
“The small act of participating in the Dignity Drive truly does make a huge difference in the community,” said Kaydence Decker, a senior social work major from Blair, who serves as SWAT vice president. “It is great to see community members come together and provide others with everyday essentials.”
SWAT Leadership and Membership
To be a member of SWAT, students must be enrolled in the Northwestern Social Work program. Northwestern SWAT leaders, members and their classification include:
Officers: Isabella Burden, Medicine Lodge, Kansas, junior, president; Decker, vice president; Shotpouch secretary; Haylee Durrence, Alva sophomore, treasurer; Nikita Brewer, Woodward sophomore, reporter.
Members: Itzel Castillo, Laverne senior; James Fanning, Enid senior; Mattie Gore, Camargo senior; Karly Green, Newton, Kansas, senior; Tyra Hostetler, Harper, Kansas, senior; Amanda Houldsworth, Vici junior; Shelby Kinnard, Woodward junior; Emey Lopez, Enid junior; Lizbeth Lopez, Enid junior; Jenna Maier, Alva senior; Guadalupe Melchor, Enid senior; Nicole Posada, Woodward senior; Kimberly Ruf, Gage senior; Morgan Sanders, Woodward sophomore; Maureen Torres, Enid sophomore.
For more information, contact Dr. Kylene Rehder, department chair and professor of social work, at kdrehder@nwosu.edu or (580) 327-8135 or visit the Northwestern Department of Social Work online.
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Media Contact:
Sean J. Doherty, University Relations Specialist
Email: sjdoherty@nwosu.edu
Phone: (580) 327-8480