As spring begins at Elon University, so does the unavoidable spirit — and pressure — of philanthropy and giving. The month of April alone holds two of the university’s biggest philanthropy events: Elonthon and Relay for Life. 

Hundreds of people from all across campus are involved in the planning of these events and participate in a number of ways. These two philanthropic opportunities, along with several other fundraisers and events held by fraternities and sororities, serve primarily to raise money for various causes.

While raising awareness for charities and raising money is very beneficial, it is important to recognize the privileges associated with it. During this spirit of giving, we must also remember the multiple ways students can give back, such as donating to smaller charities or volunteering time instead of money, that may align better more closely to their abilities, passions and resources.

Many students at Elon have the resources that make them able to raise the amount of money that they do for organizations like Duke Children’s Hospital and the American Cancer Society, but not every student here has that ability. Being held to a monetary standard may be unrealistic for some students, but it shouldn’t mean that they are unable to participate in service. 

Too often at Elon, we praise students for the amount of effort they seem to be putting into their service. We applaud “24-hour dancer” buttons and the number of dollars raised. It is good to encourage these students and to continue donating to these causes, but it can’t distract from the other ways students can get involved. Some students may be more dedicated to lesser-known charities. Some may not have the ability to stand and dance for 24 hours. And there is no shame in that.

Participating in philanthropy and service is in an incredible opportunity for growth and insight, but the true potential of mutual benefit can only be reached when we are passionate about and dedicated to what we are doing. 

There is no one way students are able to give back, and we must celebrate that and recognize it across campus.