Photo provided by ASUCC
Club members Tonya Arroyo and Sabrina Bidwell work the ASTRA booth at the Club Fair.

ASTRA lends a hand to Hurricane Sandy victims

By Varneet Brar · The Mainstream
Published November 14, 2012

Superstorm Sandy hit the continental United States Oct. 29, leaving in its wake nine severely affected states plus our nation’s capitol and millions to deal with the after- math.  In our community, UCC ASTRA Club has taken a lead in extending a helping hand towards the victims of this disaster.

“One of our club members, Tonya Arroyo, came to our meeting and asked if there was anything ASTRA could do on short notice. We brainstormed as a group and came up with a necessities drive,” said Brenna Martin, President of ASTRA Club

Teaming up with Phi Theta Kappa, the two clubs will put on a necessities drive to provide an opportunity for students to send their best wishes for those that were ravaged by this storm. The club will be raising funds by means of a community coin drive.

Hurricane Sandy has resulted in flooded streets, 8.5 million powerless homes, lack of supplies, a death toll of at least 85, and an economical wasteland.

“We’ve all been watching the news and have seen the horrific things these people are going through and we wanted to help. We thought that people would be grateful for toothbrushes and coats,” said Martin.

Located in the library, a bin will be available for students and any others who want to donate towards this effort.

For those who wish to help beyond donations or for those who hope to help in other services in the future, ASTRA, a service club, can provide students with opportunities to do so.

“There are no membership requirements to join the club at the moment; you place as much effort as you wish with no pressure from others. Through a collaborative effort we decide on upcoming projects and you can participate in whichever ones you wish, it is totally up to you how much effort you place in the club,” said Miguel Rodriguez, ASTRA Club Treasurer.

Those interested in ASTRA can find them meeting in the Umpqua Room, which is located in the Educational Skills Building, on Tuesdays at noon.

“To sign up a UCC student would just have to come to one of the officers or our meetings and request a membership form to join. Simple as that!” said Rodriguez.