April 7, 2013 – The University of Utah celebrates the community it calls home during the third annual Community Engagement Day, Thursday, April 10. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to connect with the community through a variety of service projects held throughout the day.

“Community Engagement Day is symbolic of the deep connections made between the campus and the community all year,” said Linda Dunn, executive director the Lowell Bennion Community Service Center at the U. “The day also helps generate ideas of how people can get more involved in the future.”

The day begins as the campus welcomes 600 sixth grade students from nine Title I schools from the Salt Lake City school district. Along with 150 U student volunteers, the children will attend a variety of presentations, activities and classes to introduce them to college life.

A highlight of the day will be Earth Fest, a community-wide celebration focused on sustainability, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on the Marriott Library Plaza. The festival features environmental organizations from on and off campus and includes hands-on activities, live music, food and performances.

There are many other ways to get involved in Community Engagement Day. Activities include a walk-a-thon with proceeds benefiting the Community Engagement Scholarship, collection drives, volunteer opportunities at Red Butte Garden, a workshop to make toys for children or to knit hats for hospitalized infants and more. The options are designed to accommodate busy schedules, so students, faculty, staff and even community members can donate as little or as much time as they wish.

For a full listing of Community Engagement activities click here.