Calvin College's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has raised $1,279 and collected new toys for West Michigan-area children. The new toys will be donated to the Grand Rapids area Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

The $1,279 will be donated to Access of West Michigan's Holiday Giving Network. The Holiday Giving Network provides holiday meals and gifts for West Michigan families in need.

"It is difficult to get monetary donations for the Holiday Giving Network because there are so many great places to give to this time of year," said Access of West Michigan Co-Executive Director Emma Garcia. "This donation from Calvin's SAAC is incredibly helpful for the Holiday Giving Network program." 

Calvin's SAAC is comprised of at least two representatives from each 21 intercollegiate teams and ACHA Ice Hockey. SAAC acts to promote community amongst athletic teams, Calvin College and the West Michigan area.

"Each fall our SAAC members engage our athletic department in a service project, and our student-athletes collected donations and toys with the hopes of brightening the Christmas holiday for West Michigan children," said Calvin SAAC advisor Becky Hilgert. "Our athletic teams worked together and solicited donations from fans attending Calvin athletic events this fall so we'd like to thank those who generously donated."  

Calvin SAAC members also created a promotional video for the donation drive.

"Our SAAC members enjoyed sponsoring this project and collecting donations for children and families," said Calvin SAAC student-athlete chair Luke Schepers. "I was happy how our student-athletes came together for this great cause."

NCAA Division III SAAC represents the student-athletes to have a voice on campus.  SAAC members offer input on NCAA legislation, identify student-athlete issues and encourage student-athlete community outreach.

(Information provided by Calvin College athletic department)