Season’s Greetings NAU family,
Here we are, the final month of 2020! This year has challenged us in ways most of us have never seen in our lifetimes. Yet, humanity continues to rise to the occasion, demonstrating our resilience and indomitable nature.
The holidays are usually a joyous time of connection with loved ones and celebration full of food, festivities, and the tangible expression of our love through gift giving. With the pandemic still raging and travel discouraged by the CDC, many of us will be spending the holidays alone. Additionally, with pay reductions, increased workloads, health concerns, and the stress of living in 2020, many in our NAU community are struggling this year.
George Washington Carver wisely reminds us, “How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these.” Similarly, there are seasons in life we are in need, seasons in life we are able to give from our overflow, and seasons in life when we have enough for ourselves and thus support the giving and receiving from the sidelines through cheers of hope and encouragement. There is no shame in any of these positions – the helper, the helpee, or the cheerleader, only in not recognizing that at some point in our lives we will have been all of these. Back in the spring, when the corona virus was just starting and we were just beginning our social distancing marathon, I came across this message in the forest:
Thank you, mystery pinecone writer! Just like in March, July, October and now, in December, we might be separated and in different stages of need, but we are still in this, and stronger, together. If you are in need – please allow yourself to be served. If you are in abundance – please give where you feel moved. If you are like Goldilocks and “just right” – please cheer and support and encourage the giving and receiving around you.
EAW wants to remind you all that we are here to provide support for all your emotional and wellness needs. We know this season can be taxing, so please keep an eye on our website for workshops and activities or call to make an appointment with a counselor if needed. We also want to remind you of all the other ways you can receive help or meet needs on campus this season.
Louie’s Cupboard: Food insecurity is on the rise and Louie’s cupboard meets the needs of staff and students on campus by providing food boxes and food pantry. Helpers you can donate nonperishable food directly to Louie’s Cupboard by contacting the Program Coordinator. Helpees you can sign up for winter food distribution, grab and go bags, or request transport to the Northern Arizona Food Bank.
Louie’s Cupboard: 523-5181
https://in.nau.edu/dean-of-students/louies-cupboard/
Program Coordinator: Azah Quach – azah.quach@nau.edu
Santa’s Sleigh: A quarter of a century has passed since the inception of the Santa’s Sleigh fund. Its purpose is to provide a small, one-time monetary boost to full time NAU employees. Santa’s Sleigh has assisted employees with severe financial hardships or personal tragedies by providing a holiday meal and gifts for their children. Hardships and tragedies occur year-round, thus assisting as funds allow, giving approximately $50,000 in 25 years. This program only exists out of your generosity.
To Donate To Santa’s Sleigh: The NAU Foundation, Santa Sleigh Fund #4936. The Foundation [located on the 3rd floor in Old Main] accepts cash, checks or you can sign up for payroll deduction. Likewise, Don Dufek will accept donations at Fleet Services.
Questions or Nominations: If you have any questions, or would like to nominate a recipient please contact Don Dufek (AKA Patrick Dufek) at:
don.dufek@nau.edu
Fleet Services, 523-2469.
Classified Staff Advisory Council (CSAC) Warm Clothing Drive: CSAC sponsors an annual warm clothing drive just before the cold winter months settle in. If you are interested in donating warm clothing or are in need of some, please contact CSAC.
Service Professional Advisory Council (SPAC) Adopt-A-Family: SPAC adopts a family every holiday season that is in need of support to make their holiday special. Please check out their website for more information and to get involved.
NAU’s Annual United Way Fundraiser: The staff of NAU generously donates over $35,000 annually for the United Way of Northern Arizona. The money goes to provide books for children and housing for those in need. This support is easily provided by a small donation in your paycheck. For more information or to donate, please see the link below.
https://in.nau.edu/united-way/
Other community resources for food assistance, rental assistance, utility assistance etc. can be found on our website under the resource tab, click on “Community Resource List/Links” and the Social Services Directory for Coconino County will provide a thorough list for you.
https://in.nau.edu/eaw/resources/
If you aren’t sure where to turn or how to ask for help, please do not hesitate to contact EAW. We are happy to help find the right fit for you.
Wishing you warmth, comfort, and community during this time. May you all be happy, healthy, and well.
Happy Holidays,
Heather Coate
On behalf of EAW
Link to the Greater Good’s December Happiness Calendar