BYU NewsNet - BYU Clubs Host Care Week

Flor Villanueva, a single mother from Valle Nuevo, El Salvador, studied throughout her high school experience and then received a job at a clothing plant. Upon becoming pregnant, Villanueva was no longer allowed to work. She started to sell clothes from door to door in order to take care of her son.

A group called "The Elk Grove Action Group" initially started offering small loans for women with small businesses. Villanueva was a recipient of one of these small loans. Receiving the loan helped make it possible for her to offer a variety of clothing to sell.

"The $100 loan has helped me a lot. I didn't have the money to buy any kind of variety of clothing, but now that I have the loan I can do that. I can buy many different articles of clothing," Villaneuva told HELP International. "Three days a week I go out and sell clothing while I take care of my son. I thank God, HELP International, OEF, and everyone who ensures that this village bank works here in Valle Nuevo."

HELP International is one of the organizations that will be receiving monetary donations from BYU students, as a result of this week's service projects, in conjunction with "Care Week." One of the goals of BYUSA is to raise $5,000 during "Care Week."

"Care Week" is the one week during the year when BYUSA clubs and non-BYUSA clubs can raise money for outside organizations.

Students around the BYU community spend time this week working to better the world around them. All donations that are received at events are given to an organization of the clubs choice.

"Our main objective is service," said Saul Alejandro Leal, president of the Salsa Club 2008-2009.

"Care Week" is filled with fun activities where all proceeds go to an outside organization.

Tuesday, there was a social dance for charity, and plush toys were made. Wednesday, a performance was given called "Performing for Hope."

Those in attendance provided money for an outside charity and watched a thrilling show. Friday includes the following events: Black Student Union can food drive Hip-Hop Dance, Footlights and A Cappella Club Charity Concert, Humor U comedy Show, Salsa Dance and the Hunger Banquet.

"Black Student Union" is about everybody reaching out to everybody," said Noah Morris, president of the Black Student Union.

Saturday's events include the following: Swing Club dance, Footlights and A Cappella Club Charity Concert, Humor U Comedy Show, and the Hunger Banquet.

This week 10 clubs will be participating in the events during "Care Week."

"It's a fantastic opportunity for students to reach out to others," said Alarie Graves, vice president over clubs for BYUSA.

For more information on events that will take place during "Care Week," please visit www.byu.edu and check the calendar for specific times, events and opportunities to give back to the world.