Organization of the Week: IMPACT

IMPACT; bringing people together through community service.  

IMPACT is one of many organizations here at USCA. Aaleyah Gantt, a student IMPACT Coordinator, stated that the organization is community service and volunteer-based, and is always looking for ways to better the community.  

“If a school needed jackets for kindergarteners, they would email us, and we would put on a drive or a type of event to raise the money or to provide the jackets,” Gantt said.  

When asked why IMPACT was brought to USCA’s campus, Gantt stated that they wanted to bring more community service and involvement not just with the school, but with the Aiken community. The organization wanted to create something that was bigger than themselves.  

“I know what it’s like to be without,” said Gantt. “So, if I can help one person who is feeling how I felt, I would feel good.” 

IMPACT has recently expanded outside of Aiken; traveling to different parts of the country to help out in communities that are in need of love and care. Gantt stated that her favorite memory with the organization was when they volunteered in New Orleans last year to help out Arc-GNO sort beads.  

"Arc of Greater New Orleans works to secure for all people with intellectual disabilities opportunities to develop, function, and live to their fullest potential”.

IMPACT has an upcoming event during fall break. They will be going to Nashville, TN to partner with the Smokey Mountains and the Wellness Center to help clean up the mountains. More information can be found on flyers around campus.  

“A lot of people spend time in their dorms, but this can help them network and help the community,” Gantt said. “Once you get involved with one thing, you will get involved with so many others.”