The BRTC chapter of PBL (Phi Beta Lambda) recently participated in a diaper drive for the Arkansas Diaper Depot as part of the statewide leadership conference, according to PBL Co-Adviser Darenda Kersey. They presented their collection of over 2000 baby wipes and diapers during PBL’s Fall State Leadership Conference held October 19 at Pulaski Tech in Little Rock. “SGA donated the majority of items collected,” noted Kersey.
BRTC’s Student Government Association (SGA) purchased $250 worth of baby diapers and baby wipes to contribute to the diaper drive, according to SGA Adviser Phillip Dickson. “This effort is part of SGA’s commitment to philanthropic work.”
In 2010, a study done by the “Huggies® Every Little Bottom” initiative found that 1 in 3 families struggle with providing diapers for their children. These families may be forced to choose between buying diapers and providing necessities, according to the survey. Last year, Arkansas Diaper Depot distributed over 420,000 diapers in 53 counties across Arkansas through a network of partner organizations and disaster relief efforts. However, resources are limited because very few people are aware of the diaper need in Arkansas and Diaper Depot continues working towards meeting the need.
Kersey, along with business instructor Kellee Hardage, accompanied 11 students from both Pocahontas and Paragould campuses to the conference.
The keynote speaker at the conference was Rodney Parks, Director of Development at Philander Smith College. Parks has held many different leadership positions throughout his career and he noted his involvement in PBL during college as the motivating factor in his success. Students attended various workshops, which included topics of Financial Planning, Ice Breakers, the Oz Principle, and the True Colors personality test.
“The conference was a great experience for the PBL students, and we appreciate being given the opportunity to attend,” said Kersey. “I also want to thank SGA for their generous contribution to the diaper drive.”