SMU Student Athletes Give Back This Thanksgiving
Nov 27 | Rowing, Track & Field, Student-Athlete Success
SMU student athletes stepped up for a bigger night of serving this past weekend at The Stewpot.
Mustangs regularly serve on Saturdays and Sundays, but 13 athletes showed up this past weekend to fully staff the Sunday night dinner.Â
"Our SAAC program has truly excelled this year in broadening its impact within the Dallas community," SMU director of student-athlete success Marissa Watters said. "I couldn't be prouder of these remarkable young adults for dedicating their time, energy, and passion to giving back to a community that has shown them such incredible support.Â
The Stewpot provides assistance for homeless and at-risk individuals in Dallas from access to healthcare, to meals, housing and groceries, among other things.Â
Senior track and field athlete Raelyn Roberson has served there before. But being there during the holidays has a special meaning.
"It means a lot to me especially during this time of year," Roberson said. "This time of year is about gratitude and giving, so being able to reflect and give back means a lot to me."
SMU has made an effort to make itself Dallas' Team. Women's rower Lauren Bilafer understands that comes with the responsibility of representing and supporting the city, too.Â
"SMU is so prominent within Dallas and being able to help those in need and continue to establish a presence in the community is so important," Bilafer said. "It was such a great experience and I look forward to the next opportunity to do this again with fellow athletes."
Having the platform of being a college athlete is an important one. By going out and getting involved, it could lead to others following that lead.
"I think it's super important. As student athletes, we have a busy schedule and a lot of our time is accounted for," Roberson said. "I think when people see us out in the community it means a lot because it means we've taken time out of our day to be there and give back, and it may even encourage them to do the same."
Both Roberson and Bilafer noted the atmosphere during the dinner. There was music and plenty of smiles to go around. Being able to be a part of something like that also helps them recognize the things they are thankful for this time of year.
"I'm thankful for a lot this year," Roberson said. "I'm thankful for the opportunity to use my last year of eligibility at SMU. I'm thankful for my friends, family, teammates and coaches. I'm also thankful for everyone that was in my corner as I recovered from my injury."
That is what this time of year is about, being thankful for those who have helped you and then returning the favor by going out and helping others, giving them something to be thankful for.
"This spirit of service and selflessness is what sets SMU Athletics apart," Watters said. "Recognizing the importance of looking beyond ourselves and taking meaningful action to make a difference."
