By Mackenzie Menter
Fiji is hosting its first ever USO Week this week to raise money for American troops stationed overseas.
The United Service Organization is a nonprofit organization that organizes services and live entertainment for troops abroad. They are Fiji’s local philanthropy.
“USO Week is Fiji’s first philanthropy week,” said Andy Underkoffler, Fiji’s recording secretary and justice studies sophomore. “All proceeds from it will go to the USO, and then that will go to troops overseas to give them equipment that will let them talk to their families, make them feel more like they’re at home; anything that will make them feel like they’re out of war.”
Fiji started the week with a bake sale. On Wednesday, they hosted a video game competition. Today, they will have their annual Spaghetti for Soldiers event in Watson Lounge.
“It’s a way to support our troops. It’s a way to care for them,” said Underkoffler. “A lot of people don’t know that it doesn’t take a lot of money to get them what they need.”
The organization is enthusiastic about their endeavors this week.
“I feel like a lot of students either know someone who is there or are connected to someone in some way, so that it is kind of more of a personal connection for them,” said Reed Bentley, acting junior and Fiji president. “They are also fighting for us, therefore we should help and not necessarily feel obligated to give back, but just to help support the people who support us.”
Julianne Reynolds, voice sophomore, supports Fiji in their efforts.
“I think Fiji has overcome a lot in the past year,” Reynolds said. “They need to be bold and confident about getting their cause heard, and really start establishing themselves as a force on this campus.”
Reynolds has a personal connection to the cause.
“I support USO week because I support the people fighting for our freedom. I have friends overseas right now, and I know how much they and their families appreciate support from organizations like USO,” Reynolds said.
Students who would like to participate in USO week can find more information by joining the Facebook event “Phi Gamma Delta USO Week”.
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