PTK Catalyst is celebrating service with the launch of the Caring Corner at this year’s convention.
Service is one of the four Hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa, so Catalyst attendees will have the opportunity to give back to the community in the Opportunity Expo.
As part of the Caring Corner, Catalyst attendees will have the chance to participate in a book drive and a clothing drive for PTK’s Virtual Career Closet.
Book Drive with Lead to Read KC
One way to give back will be by donating books to Lead to Read Kansas City.
Lead to Read KC is helping build a brighter future for Kansas City children by providing mentorship and addressing the challenge of low literacy rates.
To help support their mission, PTK will be hosting a children’s book drive in the Caring Corner at Catalyst.
Donated books should be new or like-new for kids in preschool through 8th grade. Lead to Read KC wish list includes culturally diverse books, bilingual books, high interest books like graphic novels, and easy reader books to encourage practice and success.
Some Recommend Books for Donation Include:
More recommendations for books to bring can be found at their Amazon Wish List or Bookshop Wish List. Books purchased through the wish lists will be sent directly to Lead to Read KC, but Catalyst attendees are encouraged to bring books to drop off in the Opportunity Expo.
While at the Caring Corner, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about Lead to Read KC while decorating bookmarks that the organization will put in books and give to children involved in the program.
For more information on Lead to Read KC visit their website. Lead to Read KC also accepts online and cash donations that allow them to purchase books at a discount.
PTK Virtual Career Closet
Phi Theta Kappa knows that clothing can be a barrier for members interviewing or starting new jobs, so PTK is piloting a virtual clothing closet that will be open to select schools with the hope of scaling it to more schools.
This program will allow students at pilot schools to obtain professional attire for career fairs, networking events, interviews, internships, and other career-related occasions.
To help with the pilot, Catalyst attendees are encouraged to pack an extra item of new or like-new clothes to drop off at the donation area in the Caring Corner.
PTK Virtual Clothing Closet Needs
- New or gently used clothing in the business casual to business professional range for all genders and in all sizes
- Suit Jackets, Pants, Skirts, and Dresses (preferably in gray, black, navy, or khaki)
- Blouses and shirts (in neutral tones)
- Dress pants
- Belts, ties, and accessories
- Socks (new)
- Clothes should be cleaned prior to donation.
- Clothes should be in good or excellent quality and purchased within the last five years
The donation drop-off area will be located in the Caring Corner in the Opportunity Expo.
