More than SUNY Oswego student-athletes are ready to rake leaves in the city of Oswego on Sunday, Nov. 3 -- and they want to hear from senior citizens interested in their assistance.
In its 19th year at SUNY Oswego, the project is part of an annual statewide community service project by Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) chapters at many SUNY Athletic Conference colleges. SAAC's mission is to generate a student-athlete voice among Oswego's intercollegiate teams and to enhance school spirit within athletics.
The leaf-raking efforts provide the student-athletes in Oswego's 24 varsity sports an opportunity to give back to a community that cheers them on throughout their years in green and gold.
Student-athletes will receive a list of yards that need raking, and fan out to provide this service on Nov. 3.
“This event is a staple of our department and how we show the Oswego community how much they mean to us.” said Merlin Joseph, assistant athletic director for student-athlete success and the project's 2024 organizer.
“The student-athletes are always enthusiastic about this initiative and embrace giving back to the community that supports them at every game,” Joseph added. “Oswego athletics continues to strive for excellence in regards to giving back to the community through service.”
Senior citizens (age 60 or older), who live in Oswego county, can register to have their yards raked by contacting either Merlin Joseph (merlin.joseph@oswego.edu or 315-312-3360) or Tina Radley (tina.radley@oswego.edu or 315-312-3056).
The project is limited to the first 50 yards registered and offered to seniors living in the city of Oswego. Homeowners must provide their own leaf or garbage bags.
In addition, SUNY Oswego's SAAC chapter welcomes any additional donations of rakes, tarpaulins, gloves or refreshments to help with this sizable volunteer effort.