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Two Lake Land students 'pay it forward' in fashion

            In this tough economy purchasing extras like clothing causes families financial stress. To alleviate this burden, two Lake Land College students are giving back to the community in a fashionable way.

Jodi Koester, Teutopolis, and Victoria Greer, Mattoon, both sophomore elementary education majors, have organized an event they are calling Fashion Forward, which will provide free clothing to the community.

Since last fall, the two have been planning the event and collecting clothing. On March 20 their hard work will commence when the public will be invited to the Workforce Development Center in Mattoon from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and take home as much as needed clothing and accessories for their families, for free.

"We wanted to so do something that hadn't been done before," explained Koester. "But we also wanted to do something that we felt would really help out the community and be free."

For Greer, planning this event was personal.

"My family benefited from a similar program when I was growing up," she said. "Now that I am able, I wanted to repay some of that kindness."

Greer and Koester hope to have a "huge" turnout for the event and plenty of clothing and accessories in all styles and sizes.

"We have lots of kids' clothes," Koester said."We even have name brand clothing."

The two only ask that participants bring bags to help carry out the clothing.

Lori Morrissette, director of student life, said the two students have worked extremely hard on this worthwhile event. The project is part of a class called Serve Your Community Program, where Lake Land students learn the benefits and importance of community service programs.

The event is part of the college's Women's History Month activities. Other events will include a poster display of influential women and their contributions to society. LLC’s Diversity Education Committee will host a silent auction in the Theater with all funds given to HOPE of East Central Illinois. The Diversity Education Committee and the Student Activity Board will sponsor a presentation on Jane Addams’ Lincoln on Wednesday, March 10 in the theater at 11 a.m. The event is free, and the community is encouraged to attend. 

Koester and Greer said they do not need anymore clothing donated, but they are still taking volunteers to work on the day of the event. Those interested can the Student Life office, at 217-234-5277.

 

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