John Carey, chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, and Bonnie K. Burman, director of the Ohio Department of Aging, were joined by Pete the Penguin and Gator from Eastern Gateway Community College at a news conference in Tod Hall to launch the new GIVE back, GO forward initiative.
YSU is the focal point of a new state program that brings together the young and the not so young.
Chancellor John Carey of the Ohio Department of Higher Education and Director Bonnie K. Burman of the Ohio Department of Aging were on campus this summer to announce the start of GIVE back, GO forward, a program where area residents age 60 and older can earn free college tuition by volunteering in their communities.
YSU and Eastern Gateway Community College are the first two schools to participate in the program, with hopes that others across the state will replicate the program in the years ahead.
“Our elders are valued and respected resources that are in a position to contribute to their communities in ways that will impact the state for years to come,” Burman said. “This program will allow Ohio’s elder population to feel valued in their community while they experience the health benefits that come with volunteering and helping others.”
Volunteers have until May 31, 2016 to earn at least 100 hours of volunteer service with the United Way Success By 6, United Way Success After 6, or Inspiring Minds. Once volunteers reach 100 hours, they will receive the tuition waiver.