This upcoming November, University of Tampa’s volunteer organization, People Exploring Active Community Experiences (P.E.A.C.E) has been invited to receive a prestigious award at the National Philanthropy Day event in recognition of their dedication to humanitarianism and service worldwide. This event is scheduled to be held at the A La Carte Event Pavilion in Tampa.
Every academic year, students complete approximately 100,000 hours of service within both the campus and various communities within and outside the Tampa Bay area. Last year alone, the P.E.A.C.E Volunteer Center contributed an estimated 25,000 hours of community service to that total with their philanthropy-based activities.
Founded in 1994, P.E.A.C.E continually strives “to increase volunteerism at UT through direct service and advocacy.” Members participate in various activities, such as, volunteering frequently at local soup kitchens, visiting shelters for the homeless and cleaning up trash at coastal areas. Their latest service trip entailed an “alternative break” trip to Cayo Costa State Park to advocate towards a cleaner environment. P.E.A.C.E is considered as a widely diverse group as opposed to other clubs, teams and organizations ran by UT because the volunteers can be made up of students, faculty and staff members. Each semester, about 100 events are organized by students to help promote volunteering within the community.
Typically, the P.E.A.C.E Volunteer Center’s charitable work is completed without outward recognition. However, this year, the center has been awarded the 2011 National Philanthropy Day Award. This accreditation is sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) under the Florida Suncoast Chapter, which serves as the “world’s leading association for individuals and organizations that support charitable institutions.”
One member of P.E.A.C.E and a freshman at UT, Shane Autumn Nebbia, commented on her experience with the organization. “[Getting involved with P.E.A.C.E] is a really positive thing for everyone. For the environment, for the community, for me. Community service is something I just like to do.” When asked about her opinions of the National Philanthropy Day Award, she said, “I’m excited that the organization earned this award, maybe this event will cause more people to hear about it and encourage them become more involved.” Nebbia hopes more students, faculty and staff will become involved in the P.E.A.C.E movement and characterize the motives of other volunteers with the organization as well.
On Nov. 16, P.E.A.C.E. will be presented the award at the National Philanthropy Day event, which focuses on celebrating the positive impact that philanthropy can have on lives of individuals and the community.
Dani Carpenter can be reached at dani.carpenter@spartans.ut.edu.