Duke Alums Engage 2014 taking shape

Have you thought about helping a worthwhile organization in your community but are wary of an ongoing time commitment? Do you want to meet other Duke alumni in your area who share your interests? Duke Alums Engage (DAE) offers the perfect opportunity to work in partnership with a local community organization alongside fellow Blue Devils, friends, and family members within a well-structured framework supported by the Duke Alumni Association.

In 2013, there were thirty-six DAE projects, ranging from hunger-relief efforts with local food banks to gardening and beautification projects to community health fairs. For 2014, the DAE organizers have set a goal of having sixty projects taking place in new or existing partner cities. DAE projects will occur April 25 to May 4.

Jack Boyd ’85, a member of the Duke Alumni Association board of directors, has been actively involved with planning and executing the annual DAE event in New York. He says that getting a project off the ground is not as daunting as it may seem.

“It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3,” he says. “First, contact the DAA for ideas and background on how to get a project started. Second, look around your community and identify a well-established partner organization that you would like to work with. And third, invite your friends.”

Boyd notes that the DAA has compiled a wealth of resources for alumni interested in starting a project based on feedback from past participants. These include a series of training tools on the DAA website, including tips on selecting a suitable community partner, steps for planning and executing a project, and guidelines for thoughtful engagement, as well as a Frequently Asked Questions section.

To learn more, visit dukealumsengage.com or contact Angela Karl at angela. karl@daa.duke.edu.