The MBA Association at the Broad College of Business are collecting funds to help support immigrant children separated from their families at the U.S./Mexico border.
Donations go towards the non-profit organization Samaritas. This organization is based in Detroit and has a long history of building community and assisting immigrant populations in Michigan.
Donations will be used to fund foster home placements for immigrant children in Michigan, as well as supplies needed to help the transition.
The MBA Association will be accepting contributions via Venmo now through the extended deadline July 13.
Second-year MBA student Brandon Snider, the fundraiser’s creator, said he was assured by Samaritas that any funds donated will go directly to food, clothing and other needs for the displaced children.
Snider said a great deal of responsibility is felt by the MBA students to use their available resources to help a greater cause.
“I reached out to them to see if there was anything we could do and it was not like we were looking for a project as much as it just kinda seemed like the appropriate thing for us to jump on,” Snider said.
A sense of social responsibility isn't new to the College of Business, Snider said. The Dean of the Broad College of Business, Sanjay Gupta, supports his students and their goals of bettering humanity.
“Dean Gupta really encourages us to get involved in the community a much as we can. He really wants us to understand that business isn’t just going to work and collecting a paycheck, it’s giving back and being a part of the community you’re working in and that’s something that I personally believe as well,” Snider said.
The MBA students often organize events throughout the year to give back to the community and other places in need of relief. Snider said he believes in using social positions of power and resources to give back.
“If you’re in the position to help somebody, it’s not just the right thing to do, it’s your responsibility to do it,” Snider said. “These kids are going through a lot right now and any little bit that you can give to help make their experience a little bit easier is going to go a long way.”
To contribute, go to Venmo and make a payment to @BroadMBAA, designating Samaritas in the “what it’s for” section.
Cash and check donations can be delivered to the MBA Off Assistant Beth Thomas at 215 Eppley Center, 645 N. Shaw Lane, East Lansing, Mich.
Samaritas is also look for volunteers to mentor children in language skills, study skills and help in the process of readjusting to their lives away from home. Samaritas can be reached atinfo@samaritas.org or 313-823-7700.
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