By Cassandra Ruelle, PCMASE Community Service Chair

The University of South Carolina has over 700 students in their hospitality program. The program is ranked #11 in the U.S. and #24 in the world for hospitality and tourism management. The PCMA Southeast Chapter would like to spotlight them for their community service efforts in our region.

At the beginning of each school year, the students in USC’s College of Hospitality, Retail, and Sport Management select an organization that holds a special meaning to them, to which they would like to contribute. This year, they are focusing their community service efforts in support of the Columbia Women’s Shelter, which provides a safe environment for homeless women in crisis and the necessary resources to build strong and healthy lives.

During the fall semester, the students organized a clothing drive to support the shelter’s needs in the coming winter months. Collection bins were placed throughout the Carolina Coliseum and McCutchen House buildings for students and faculty to donate women’s clothing. Additionally, the students held multiple fundraiser events to collect donations and raise money for the shelter.

The highly-active USC hospitality student chapter often volunteer at various area events, to gain industry experience. Because of their strong commitment to the support of nonprofits through volunteerism and fundraising, they additionally host many of their own events throughout the year. The students find it very rewarding to help local organizations in the Columbia area. In the past they have also supported, SC Philharmonic, Columbia City Ballet, and Ronald McDonald House.

Learn more about Columbia Women’s Shelter to see how you can help.

If you are interested in sharing your volunteer story by being featured in our Community Service Chronicles, or would like to get involved by serving on our PCMA Southeast Chapter Community Service Committee, please contact Cassandra Ruelle.