NGU collects canned protein for Evan’s Training Center
Treasure Hardwick, News and Feature Editor
Photo by Donna Spearmen on Unsplash
In an effort to help the community and encourage service in students, North Greenville University hosted a campus-wide canned food drive April 6-8 for Evan’s Training Canter, a local recovery program for men in Lyman, South Carolina.
The initiative began after campus leaders met with representatives from Evan’s Training Center to explore ways students could serve the ministry. The idea was introduced as a campus-wide opportunity to support men in recovery from substance abuse.
Dallas Vandiver, Associate Vice President for Campus Ministries and Student Engagement (CMSE) at NGU, explained that Evan’s Training Center is a nonprofit where men struggling with drug and alcohol addiction can enter a long-term recovery program focused on both physical restoration and spiritual growth.
The ministry provides housing, daily meals and biblical teaching as the participants work through the program designed to help break them free from addiction as they rebuild their lives and later reconnect with their families.
Vandiver explained that while many of the men don’t professes faith in Christ upon entry into the program, many walk out trusting in Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
The food drive aligned with CMSE’s mission of encouraging students to serve others through practical acts of generosity. Vandiver noted that even small acts of generosity, such as donating a single can of protein, can help students develop habits of compassion and awareness of needs beyond campus.
“Part of the way that God works in us is to grow us in generosity, graciousness and love for other people as we have opportunities in front of us, Vandiver said. “It teaches us to make a bit of sacrifice, even if it’s not large … this is part of spiritual formation,” he added.
Student and faculty responded by collecting canned goods that filled a whole car, along with additional items. The contributions included canned protein that will help support daily needs of men in the program. Vandiver explained that the protein donations are especially beneficial for a ministry operating on a limited budget, as food items help offset costs and allow resources to be directed toward other areas of care.
Vandiver noted that the outcome of the food drive and student generosity encouraged NGU leadership and representatives from Evan’s Training Center.
“Students were so welcoming and kind. They had personal conversations and asked questions about the details of the ministry. That by itself was a huge encouragement,” Vandiver said.
