Kimberly Moncada, director of the Butler Center for Volunteer Service and Leadership Development, and Lindsey Goldstein, associate director, secured the All State Grant for $30,000 for the Butler Center aimed at bolstering existing programs and launching new initiatives. The grant, allotted for the 2023-24 academic year, emphasizes empowerment through programming and community service, targeting social and racial inequities in the community.
This funding enhances established programs, like FunDay and Miami Dream Day, while paving the way for new engagement opportunities like the Mystery Service Trip, set to debut during National Volunteer Week.
For the past 40 years, FunDay has been a campus tradition of University of Miami students hosting adults with developmental disabilities for a full day of activities and games. The additional funding from the All State Grant enabled the students to enhance the experience by including an interactive petting zoo and fun t-shirts for participants. “FunDay is not just an event. It is a continuation of my journey in advocating for acceptance and challenging the stigmas surrounding those with special needs," said FunDay co-chair Cataryna Senra.
Miami Dream Day, another beneficiary of the grant, orchestrates community service efforts to fulfill local community dreams through service. This day is a collaborative effort between the Butler Center, Multicultural Student Affairs, Miami Day of Service, and United Black Students, where over 230 students volunteered, making this the largest service day of the year.
The grant also paves the way for the new Mystery Service Trip, designed to support local community partners with sustainability initiatives, aligning with Earth Day festivities during this year’s National Volunteer Week.
The impact of this grant extends beyond our campus, empowering our students and the larger community. “Receiving this grant is pivotal in ensuring the sustainability and growth of FunDay’s impact on our community. This grant is an investment in the longevity of FunDay as it guarantees that we can uphold its mission of inclusivity and acceptance for years to come,” said Senra. “This grant has allowed us to continue to live out the Butler Center for Service and Leadership’s mission of serving as a catalyst to cultivate positive social change," said Moncada.
