This month, the Stephens College Office of Safety and Security is leading a project to support Rainbow House, a child advocacy center for mid-Missouri and an emergency shelter for children from birth to 18 years. The organization’s goal is to reduce emotional trauma suffered by children who have experienced abuse, neglect or family crisis.
Throughout the month of February, members of the security team will collect donations of items needed by Rainbow House. Safety and Security will forgive campus parking violations received during the month of February in exchange for a donation to the Rainbow House.
Director of Campus Security Ken Hammond has headed up a campus programming event every semester of his five years at Stephens, but this spring is the first time he chose a project to benefit an off-campus community organization.
“I got to know the folks at Rainbow House during my time with the police department,” Hammond said. “I worked with them very closely and saw first-hand how important they are to the community and to the children of the region. The work they do goes largely unnoticed. This is an organization that really needs the support of the community.
“Stephens is a very giving campus community, so I thought this would be a great opportunity for us to get involved.”
Ken Hammond, Director of Campus Security
In addition to donating items, the Stars will participate by volunteering their time, said Director of Athletics Miguel Paredes. The softball team is planning a themed home game to raise awareness for Rainbow House, as well as hosting a trivia night for the children at the shelter. The soccer team will help with childcare for an evening at Rainbow House, giving parents and guardians time for themselves.
Hammond recently expanded the invitation for donations to the Benton-Stephens neighborhood, which borders the Stephens campus.
Safety and Security officers will pick up donations on campus or in the Benton-Stephens neighborhood. Call (573) 876-7299 to request a pickup.
Donations also will be collected at a designated table in Stamper Commons from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and during dinner hours on Thursday.
