By ELIZABETH CHUNN
Staff Reporter
When life happens outside of the classroom, it’s stressful. That’s why the Amarillo College Advocacy and Resource Center is hosting its ninth annual resource fair where students can connect with agencies to help reduce the stress of meeting basic needs.
The fair will take place from 9 a.m. to noon, Sept. 21, at the pedestrian mall near the Ware Student Commons.
“Every fall, we invite community and Catholic Resources to Washington Street campus,” Jordan Herrera, the director of social services, said. “Instead of sending students all across town who are already struggling with transportation or time, we decided to bring resources to our students.”
Some changes were made to ensure safety due to COVID, but officials at the Resource and Advocacy Center remain committed to serving students. “Before COVID, we had about ten or fifteen more booths, but we feel good about the 46 groups who are here to join us this year, “Herrera said. “Definitely know this is a resource we take pride in offering, and we were intentional in inviting agencies that can provide for students’ basic needs.”
A wide range of resources will be available for students. Panhandle Community Resources and several non-profit agencies will attend in addition to the career center, advising department, legal aid clinic, counseling center, and foundation to talk about scholarships and student life, according to Herrera.
Interested students can also enter a raffle for the chance to win a scholarship. “They can enter by going to the advocacy and resource booth next to The Foundation,” Herrera said. “It’s a great opportunity to move forward in their academic studies by getting their education covered.”
Although students may never need to use community and campus resources, the primary goal is to remind students they are available, so education does not take second priority when unexpected life events occur.
“I struggle asking for help, and I think it would help knowing what is out there to help my school life and even personal life,” Jaci Perkins, a biology major, said. “We all have dreams and goals, and if there’s people in the area that can help you get where you need to go why not use them?”
The event is open to all students and faculty. Doughnuts and Roaster’s coffee will be provided.
For more information on student resources, visit the Advocacy and Resource Center page on AC’s website or send an email directly to thearc@actx.edu.
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