University News
Alpha Phi Sigma Helps Area Children
February 28, 2001
Even before "hitting the streets" after graduation, Western Illinois University law enforcement and justice administration (LEJA) students are already getting into the community service mode through the WIU chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, a National Criminal Justice Honor Society.
Members of Western's chapter are participating in a program called "Study and Win," which helps at-risk children in the Macomb area improve their academic skills. Volunteers spend Tuesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons helping students with homework and as well as teaching the children social skills.
"Our main goal is to help the kids improve their grades, but it also helps them to have someone to talk to outside the classroom," says Meagan McEwen, a junior from Elmhurst and the honor society's community service officer.
On Tuesdays and Thursdays, Alpha Phi Sigma members meet with the children for 1-1/2 hours to help with homework, and on Fridays the group takes the children to participate in such activities as bowling and skating.
"Study and Win" is not the organization's first time giving back to the community. The group received the Spring 2000 Office of Student Activities "Outstanding Volunteer Service Award for performing more than 100 hours of community service during the spring semester.
Established in 1942, Alpha Phi Sigma was designed to allow LEJA majors the chance to belong to a national organization that recognizes academic excellence and achievement. LEJA majors interested in joining are encouraged to apply for membership at 403 Stipes Hall. Members are required to have completed at least 40 semester hours and hold a 3.2 GPA in the LEJA major and a 3.0 GPA overall.
For further information about "Study and Win" or about Alpha Phi Sigma, contact Gayle Carper at 309/298-1339 or Jennifer Allen at 309/298-2276.
Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing
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