Warm Coats, Warm Hearts
The Student Advocacy for Gender Equality (SAGE) club at UAF wrapped up a successful winter clothing drive in December 2024, providing much-needed warmth to those facing hardship during the cold Alaskan winter. The drive, organized in collaboration with the UAF Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) program, aimed to collect winter clothing donations for individuals in the community.
“These donations are going to go a long way in helping those in our community who need a little extra help this holiday season,” said Fall 2024 SAGE President Cadence Conner, reflecting on the drive's success.
With drop-box locations across the UAF campus, the drive saw enthusiastic participation from students and faculty. Conner, alongside fellow club member Ace, personally delivered the donations on December 20, 2024, to The Door and the Interior Alaska Center for Non-Violent Living. "In total, we were able to collect 45 winter clothing items through the drive!!" Conner shared, listing the specific items, including winter coats, hats, scarves, mittens, and more. “I am so happy that we were able to do this for the community. I think it was a great way to finish off the first semester of SAGE as a group.”
This initiative reflects the broader mission of SAGE, which focuses on creating a more inclusive and supportive environment at UAF. The club's efforts extend beyond clothing drives, engaging students in conversations and actions surrounding gender equality, social justice, and intersectionality. "I am looking forward to seeing what the group is able to accomplish next!!" Conner added, looking ahead to future projects.
The WGSS program at UAF continues to support student organizations like SAGE, providing resources for those committed to fostering positive change. These efforts allow students to make a tangible impact in both the campus community and beyond.