This time of year is considered to be the most giving season of all. UA students, faculty, and staff have the chance to brighten the day of students who attend Helen Arnold Community Learning Center by participating in “Wrapping Night.”

Hosted by Akron Hope, Wrapping Night will be held on Dec. 11 in the Quaker Square Plaza at 7 p.m.

Akron Hope is a nonprofit organization whose aim is to inspire hope to the next generation by aiding Title I schools in Akron.

Along with wrapping presents, volunteers can enjoy complimentary pizza, salad, beverages, music, and a photo booth.

During the event, a silent auction will also take place for the following items: Cleveland Cavaliers tickets, a Pro Football Hall of Fame basket, alumni baskets, athletic baskets, and more.

Zach Michel, the nonprofit’s director of communications and special events, is very adamant about giving back to the community and paying it forward.

“I believe it is very important for students to give back to the community and the university. As college students, the community invests a lot into our learning experiences inside and outside the classroom,” Michel said.

Additionally, Akron Hope is hosting a “Delivery Day” event on Dec. 18 from 8 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., where volunteers will deliver more than 300 wrapped presents to Helen Arnold students.

“What sets ourselves apart from any other organization is, it’s more than just delivery the gifts, we have intentional interaction with the students,” Michel said.

After the gifts are distributed, volunteers are able to spend one hour inside the classroom to experience the children’s joy as they unwrap and play with their presents.

“It is the interaction that the kids enjoy and remember the most throughout the entire day. They look forward to the next time that you can come back and spend time with them,” Michel said.

“The students that are in Akron Public Schools, especially Helen Arnold CLC, are tremendous kids. I am very excited to continue to be apart of such a great cause, inspiring hope to the next generation.”

Michel encourages those who cannot volunteer at Akron Hope events to do good deeds and be nice to others.

“There is no greater feeling than giving your time to others and seeing the positives that come out of it,” he said.

To learn more about Akron Hope and its events visit, bit.ly/1NaUyTj