The motto of SIFE (Students In Free Enterprise) is “A head for business, a heart for the world.” That should give you a hint as to what the organization is about: businesses that enrich communities.
The international organization is present in 14,000 college campuses around the world, including this one. Here at Eastern, SIFE has won $8,900 in grant money to fund its projects with sponsors including Sam’s Club, American Free Enterprise, o.b. and Home Depot.
“There is so much information to be studied and analyzed in my business classes,” says Chelsea Dickey, Eastern student and SIFE member. “SIFE has given me an opportunity to practically do business in an effort to help others in our community.”
SIFE is a lively organization with many projects throughout the semester. Students are always more than welcome to become involved in these activities, such as:
Blankenburg. For seven years, SIFE has helped organize an after-school program at Blankenburg Elementary. This semester, the activity will take place on Tuesdays from 2:30-5:15 PM. For information on how to join in, contact Brooke Gotwals at bgotwal2@eastern.edu.
Community Garden. SIFE is partnering up with Eastern’s Earth Keepers Club to start a community garden on campus. The group is are also working to reduce campus waste through compost and recycling. Those interested should contact John Quinley at jquinley@eastern.edu.
Black Out. This year, students may have noticed that SIFE has extended its Black Out campaign until April . In the past, the challenge lasted only for one month and saved Eastern $5,000 in energy costs. Members hope to achieve an even greater amount of energy reduction this year. Every month there will be a contest to see which residence hall conserves the greatest amount of energy. The winning hall each month will be treated to a free dinner. There will also be a grand prize of $800 at the end of the Black Out given to the hall that was able to reach the greatest overall energy reduction. For ideas about how to save energy, look for posters around campus.
Shark Tank. Do you enjoy some reality entertainment? SIFE will be putting on its very own version of ABC’s show Shark Tank on April 12. Maybe you enjoy prizes even more? Bring a business plan along and survive until the final round to win $1,500. All students are welcome to attend. Contact Jon Crowder at jcrowder@eastern.edu.
Gahini Library. SIFE partnered up with Eastern alum Even Hewitt to help establish the first public library in Rwanda. This semester, SIFE is continuing this partnership by sending books to Rwanda and looking out for other possible ways to collaborate.
Keep an eye out for these projects and get involved!