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Category: Social Issues and Community

  • Giving Vending Machines Help Shoppers Donate

    This holiday season, shoppers at Florida malls have a unique and convenient way to give back. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has launched its annual holiday giving campaign, featuring special vending machines designed to facilitate direct donations to families and nonprofits.

    Donations Made Easy with ‘Giving Machines’

    Three “Giving Machines” were unveiled at the Altamonte Mall in Florida on November 20th, offering a novel approach to charitable giving. These machines allow individuals to donate essential items, ranging from mobile shelters to basic necessities like underwear, with contributions as small as five dollars. Donors can choose to support local Florida families or contribute to international causes, such as providing a goat to a family in Africa.

    The machines are operational through December 14th and are part of a larger initiative by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Elder Daniel Amato highlighted the simplicity and impact of the program, emphasizing that 100% of each donation goes directly to those in need, supporting both local and international charities.

    A Global Impact, Locally Driven

    The “Giving Machines” initiative has a significant global reach. Last year, the campaign placed similar machines in 107 cities across 13 countries on five continents. The three machines at Altamonte Mall alone raised over $100,000 from more than 6,400 donors during the previous holiday season, according to Light the World.

    Since the first Giving Machine was introduced in 2017, over $50 million has been contributed by 2.4 million people, positively impacting millions of lives worldwide. The 2025 “Light the World” campaign also features machines in Utah, with donations supporting both local communities and global beneficiaries.

    Making Giving Fun and Meaningful

    Giff Nielsen, a former leader in the church’s missionary department, described the machines and campaign as a “fun and meaningful way for people to help those in need.” Shoppers can use the machines like any regular vending machine, making donations via mobile app, credit card, or debit card. This approach simplifies the process, encouraging broader participation in charitable giving during the festive period.

    Have you used a ‘Giving Machine’ or a similar donation method? Share your experience and thoughts on this innovative approach to charity in the comments below!

  • Hampton University Sees Record Enrollment Surge

    In a landscape where many predominantly white institutions are seeing a decline in Black student enrollment, Hampton University is charting a powerful, different course. This esteemed HBCU is not only holding its ground but is experiencing record-breaking growth, demonstrating a strong commitment to student success and a strategic approach to admissions.

    A Strategic Approach to Admissions

    Hampton University, a Carnegie R2-designated research institution, has achieved an impressive 46% overall increase in student enrollment. This growth is attributed to a multifaceted strategy that goes beyond traditional metrics. The university meticulously evaluates applicants based on their technical acumen, leadership potential, and community engagement.

    They are leveraging advanced tools like predictive analytics and personalized engagement strategies. This includes fostering strong partnerships with high schools and community colleges, alongside hosting site visits for prospective students and their families. This holistic approach ensures they identify and attract promising individuals.

    Data-Driven Support and Intentional Growth

    “We’ve never needed policy to define our purpose,” stated Dr. Barbara Inman, vice president for student success and enrollment management. “Our approach has always been to find promise and surround it with support. What’s different now is the precision; we’re using data, relationships, and humanity in equal measure.”

    This dedication is evident in the numbers. Over the past three years, Hampton’s enrollment has climbed from 3,264 to 4,686 students. Notably, male enrollment has seen a significant rise from 28% to 33%, bolstered by the Hampton Male Initiative, which focuses on mentorship, leadership development, and professional readiness.

    Sustained Trajectory and Future Focus

    The university’s undergraduate enrollment has increased by 44%, contributing to the overall 46% surge, placing it among the top private HBCUs nationwide. Crucially, retention rates for both freshmen and returning students remain robust, indicating a positive and supportive campus environment.

    Darrell K. Williams, an alumnus and the university’s president since 2022, emphasized that this growth is not accidental. “Our growth is intentional and directly tied to our strategic plan,” he shared. “It reflects a university that honors its legacy while embracing the future, one student, one family, one community at a time.”

    This is not a spike; it’s a sustained trajectory. We’ve built a recruitment ecosystem where admissions, student success, and alumni engagement operate in sync, and students and their parents can feel that cohesion the moment they arrive. — Angela Boyd, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management and Dean of Admission

    What do you think about Hampton University’s impressive enrollment growth? Share your thoughts on their strategic approach in the comments below!