Terp to Terp Q&A An interview with Lisa Alexander, Coordinator, Sustainability Programs
What is Terp to Terp?
A DRL program developed to respond to students in need while encouraging a culture of social responsibility and reducing waste generation.
How does the program work?
Terp to Terp is open to any undergraduate or graduate student. Unused or gently used items are donated by students and staff, mainly through DRL’s Trash to Treasure program, which is the item collection and waste diversion program that occurs during Spring residence hall move-out. Lisa also accepts donations for Terp to Terp outside of the typical move-out periods by individual request.
H
ow did Terp to Terp get started?
The idea for the program came from listening to colleagues and campus partners at different departmental presentations like the basic needs insecurity roundtables and case manager lunch and learns. In these presentations facilitators presented facts about students in need on our campus. Lisa knew that our Trash to Treasure program was collecting so many valuable items that could be useful to students right here on campus. Terp to Terp provided an opportunity to control where those donated items went and who they could help. Initially the program started by concentrating on specific campus populations such as Fostering Terps Success and international students before expanding to all undergraduate or graduate students.
to have a program Whylikeisthisit important on our campus?
Surveys of the student body showed that programs like Terp to Terp can help our students in need by providing access to household items. Survey data indicated that UMD students have significant worries about finances and are sometimes stressed about the lack of emergency funds available to them. Terp to Terp provides students with an opportunity to access household items and school supplies without adding to any financial burden.
can our department help or How promote this program?
DRL staff members should refer any students who may benefit from this program and advertise to campus partners. Spreading awareness of Terp to Terp not only helps students who may benefit from the program, but it also has the potential to increase the number of donations from faculty and staff outside of our department and division. By Ashlyn Newton
Res Life Roundup | Fall 2021 | Vol. 4
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