Bobcat Build brings university, city together for good of community

Posted by Jayme Blaschke
University News Service
March 31, 2009

More than 3,000 students, faculty and staff from Texas State University-San Marcos will give back to the San Marcos community through volunteering with Bobcat Build on Saturday, April 4.

“This is the Bobcat way of saying, ‘Thank You,’ to everyone in our community--not just those of low socioeconomic status,” said Abby Brittain, director of Bobcat Build 2009.

Student organizations and anyone who is a student or employee of Texas State are invited to participate in the university's annual community service day, which starts with a kck-off rally at Bobcat Stadium’s east parking lot, featuring local singer/songwriter Tje Austin. Volunteers will receive a free breakfast, t-shirt and tools needed to complete assigned jobsite projects.

Jobsites include painting homes, yard work, residential outdoor and playground repairs, neighborhood clean ups, trail building and much more.

"Bobcat Build has a special place in my heart,” said Drew Shelton, operations co-chair. “Through this program, I have had the opportunity to really bond with members of the community. It’s an experience I will always value.”

Sponsors include the Non-Traditional Students Organization, Student Service Fee Committee, LBJ Student Center, Office of Equity and Access, Vice President for Student Affairs Office, Parents Association, Texas State Alumni Association, Panhellenic Association, McCoy’s Building Supply Centers, City of San Marcos, Achieving Community Together Committee, McDonald’s, Sweet Leaf Tea and Texas Disposal Systems. Local businesses are invited to help support Bobcat Build by donating food and drinks, tools, supplies and other items.

Since its inception in the spring of 2003, Bobcat Build has grown from 700 students participating at 40 locations, to more than 3,500 students expected this year.

For more information about Bobcat Build, visit www.bobcatbuild.txstate.edu, or call the Bobcat Build office at (512) 245-4245.