SGA sustainability committee battles food insecurity through open mic fundraiser
Student Government Association sustainability committee aimed to combat food insecurity in a band and poetry showcase celebrating connectivity, environmental mindfulness and a sincere need to empower others.
During its first-ever Open Mic fundraiser at Ponder Coffee Company, located at 1027 Franklin St., the committee collected more than 100 cans of non-perishable foods for the student-managed food pantry at Central Michigan University.
Nearly 100 CMU community members entered the establishment March 28, which hosted live music and poetry readings.
"Last year, SGA Sustainability Committee passed legislation in support of the creation of the Student Food Pantry, so this was also an opportunity to continue in support of this program and bring it full circle," said Macomb junior Makenzie Morales, sustainability chair. "My hope is that this event will help spread the word that an amazing resource that assists students facing food insecurity exists on campus and that anyone who may need to utilize this resource feels supported in doing so."
Morales, the sole organizer of the event, hoped to raise awareness for the pantry by illustrating the beauty of community under live art and supporting local business.
Both Morales and Armada senior Brendan Mantey, the pantry's student coordinator, said they had their hearts set on having the fundraiser at Ponder.
Mantey said the coffee shop always seems to attract and provide an encouraging space to communities and organizations working intensely toward making the world a better place.
"Every time I walk in here I see an environment of people with great values and goals that align with what we hope to achieve at the pantry," Mantey said. "It really feels like everyone here understands the importance of sustainability and coming together."
The pantry offers food to enrolled CMU students every other Tuesday and Wednesday from 4-6 p.m. near the North Campus Success Center, located beneath the Robinson Residential Restaurant.
Illinois senior Louis Grigoletti attended the event to participate in the can food drive and to enjoy a setting centered on connectivity and unique opportunities for entertainment.
"How many times do you walk around campus and everyone genuinely experiences a performance? It's a very organic setting here," Grigoletti said. "It's cool to have a space outside of the classroom where people can get together and just appreciate some of the most special things in life."
Grigoletti said the crowded event was evidence everyone is looking for a way to reach out and fit in with one another.
"People want to come together and enjoy things as a group and there's a community sense to the (people) of Central Michigan," he said. "We don't just want to stay locked in our little houses and we want to come in and experience positive, casual things too."
Ben Shadik, a Mount Pleasant resident and 2017 CMU alumnus, performed in one of the highlighted bands, 505.
Shadik said music is connected to nature and can be used as a device for reminding all individuals that "we need this planet way, way more than it needs us."
He said sustainability, artistry and connectivity all fall into a need to achieve a better world through considerate and rounded efforts.
"The event seems successful in that at the very least it's bringing a lot of people together," he said. "I hope that the people here are thinking just as much about the importance of an accessible food outlet and elevating health as the music but all-in-all, it’s good to be together."
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