SFA's The BIG Event still accepting job requests

SFA students work to beautify Pecan Park as part of last year's The BIG Event. Job request forms are still being accepted for this year's day of service on Saturday, March 23.

Job requests are still being accepted for The BIG Event, Stephen F. Austin State University's largest one-day service project, on Saturday, March 23.

The purpose of The BIG Event is for students to say "thank you" to the community for everything they do to support SFA. Residents, businesses and non-profit organizations are encouraged to participate by submitting job request forms to The BIG Event planning committee. Examples of past jobs include yard work, interior and exterior painting, and basic household repairs. Projects should take approximately three to four hours.

"The original deadline was Feb. 1," said Jamie Bouldin, assistant director for leadership and service. "However, we are planning for a big increase in the number of student volunteers, so we still need more projects to accommodate all the students who want to help the community that day. We will continue to consider job requests until we have enough projects."

Job request forms may be found at the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, or online at www.sfasu.edu/thebigevent. If a form is needed via fax or through the mail, one can be requested by contacting Jamie Bouldin at (936) 468-1088.

All potential job sites will be visited by members of The BIG Event planning committee for assessment. Acceptance of jobs is not based on financial or socio-economic need.

"We invite project requests from anyone who could use a couple of extra hands for an afternoon, no matter what their income level or status," Bouldin said.

Requestors also will be asked about the amount of supplies they have on hand, as SFA is limited on the amount of supplies it can provide. Applicants will be notified of whether their job has been accepted by March 8.

"Unfortunately, due to budget constraints as well as the consideration of safety for our students, we cannot accept all jobs," Bouldin said.

The BIG Event began at Texas A&M University 31 years ago as a way to say "thank you" to its surrounding community. Today, more than 75 universities host a version of The BIG Event on their campuses.

For more information on The BIG Event, visit www.sfasu.edu/thebigevent or contact Jamie Bouldin at 936.468.1088 or jfbouldin@sfasu.edu.