September 8, 2021

VINCENNES, Ind. - Vincennes University’s Campus Gaming Club (CGC) and the Trailblazer Esports team are participating in a community outreach effort that is a world first. In collaboration with both local and national non-profits, VU's gaming groups are partners in the #GamersRespond4Ida Campaign and Operation UKnight Louisiana. The campaign is providing help, aid, and care to those impacted by Hurricane Ida.

VU’s gaming groups have called on faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members to donate items to help build hygiene kits. The kits will assist individuals and families in Louisiana recovering from the disaster. Donations of hygiene items such as soap, washcloths, masks, hand sanitizer, deodorant, toothbrushes, and toothpaste are requested. The drive runs through Wednesday, Sept. 15. 

Once assembled, the kits will be delivered by Helping His Hands, a non-profit disaster response organization based in Vincennes that helps regions and people stricken by natural disasters.

"It is exciting to see gamers showcase their talent to collaborate and connect with others, especially in a time of need," VU Information Technology Program Chair Jaci Lederman said. "New connections have already been made as a result of this effort, such as the Southern University Baton Rouge (SUBR) Esports team. We are honored to help out fellow gamers and their communities."

Lederman noted that many departments across the campus are supporting the effort, which demonstrates the true Trailblazer spirit. 

The charity UKnightedXP has joined forces with Helping His Hands to unite gamers, like those at VU, in answering a "call to action" to help reach those experiencing crisis. UKnightedXP has created and is currently running an ad hoc emergency operations center to help coordinate and help with relief efforts. 

"This national effort to mobilize and coordinate is at an unprecedented level, thanks to modern technology and a passionate campaign, powered by gamers worldwide," UKnightedXP CEO and President Mitch Reed.

Items are being accepted in the following locations on the Vincennes Campus:

Wathen Business Building - Main Office

Davis Hall - Main Lobby

Center for Health Sciences - Break Room

Technology Center - Main Office

Shircliff Humanities Center - Main Office

Updike Hall, Center for Science, Engineering, and Mathematics - Main Office

Homeland Security and Public Safety Building - Main Lobby

Welsh Administration Building - outside President's Office

Governor’s Hall - Main Lobby

Extended Studies - Main Lobby

Dayson Foundation and Alumni Center - Main Lobby

Clark Residence Hall

Ebner Residence Hall

Vigo Residence Hall

Summers Center

Questions regarding donations? Contact Deana Hartzburg at dhartzburg@vinu.edu or 812-888-6965.

VU Information Technology students Evan Wagoner and Shane Conley help distribute totes for use in collecting items for the hygiene kit drive

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