Saint Mary's College will host Daffodil Days, a fundraising program, for the American Cancer Society Thursday.
According to the Web site for the American Cancer Society, "Daffodil Days is one of the American Cancer Society's oldest and most beloved fundraising programs."
The fundraiser has taken place each spring for the past 35 years, according to the Web site. Each year, donors are asked to accept daffodils in appreciation of their donation to the fundraiser.
This year the College will be participating as well. The Office of Civic and Social Engagement (OCSE) sent letters to all parents of current students.
"At Saint Mary's, all parents of current students receive a letter with the information about Daffodil Days. They can send their daughters fresh daffodils in a vase for a donation of $15," Carrie Call, director of OCSE, said.
Students receive an e-mail if their parents have sent them flowers. Lists are also posted in each of the residence halls with the names of the recipients.
"We have all the daffodils and vases here on campus this coming Thursday," Call said.
Flowers will be available for pick-up in the Student Center Atrium on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
According to Call, this year the College raised $8,725 from the fundraiser.
Students are still needed to help unwrap flowers and put them in vases for distribution, Call said.
"Saint Mary's students help with setting up flowers and facilitating the distribution during the day," Call said.
Students can sign up for a one-hour shift from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday. If students are interested, they can contact OCSE, Call said.
The entire Daffodil Days campaign has raised over $240 million in the past 14 years, according to the American Cancer Society Web site. The money raised has benefited a variety of programs to help cancer patients cope and heal. Money also benefits cancer research to find the causes and cures for cancer.
According to the Web site, "As the first flower of spring, the daffodil represents hope and renewal. To the American Cancer Society, the daffodil symbolizes the hope we all share for a future where cancer no longer threatens those we love."
