By: Nicole Roser

When I joined a sorority, I did not fully understand what I was getting myself into. I knew that I was joining a group of wonderful girls who would act as my sisters and be there for me whenever I was in need of a friend. Along with that sisterhood I discovered that I was offered multiple leadership and volunteer opportunities which would help me grow as a person and improve myself as a student.

My sorority is Alpha Xi Delta. Our Philanthropy is Autism Speaks and our service is volunteering at the Autism Collaborative Center (ACC). Eastern Michigan University houses this center on campus in a building called Fletcher. As a new member I knew very little about Autism and I was worried about working with children with disabilities. I didn’t know if I needed to offer them special care and all I kept thinking about were the worst case scenarios. I was finally able to volunteer at the ACC this year and I realized all of my worries were ridiculous. The children you watch over are normal children who communicate a bit differently than other people. They require more attention but just as much love and respect. It is an amazing and rewarding opportunity and I would recommend it to everyone.

The Autism Collaborative Center is always looking for more volunteers whether you intend to go Greek or not. I recommend stopping by the ACC to see what you can do to help the children who are part of their program.

Visit http://www.autism-india.org/afa_aboutautism.html to better understand Autism.