Purple Eagles Make An Impact On Local Community

NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. – The Niagara men’s basketball team was active in the local community this summer, participating in volunteer activities with Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Niagara Hospice, Central Amherst Little League’s Challenger Division, Candles in the S.U.N. and the Summit Center. 

“We are working to develop our student-athletes holistically,” said head coach Greg Paulus. “We want them to grow as people on and off the court. This includes their leadership and ability to make a positive impact in the community during their time at Niagara and beyond. The experiences of integrating into the community and serving others is the Vincentian way.”

The mission of Sleep in Heavenly Peace is to build, assemble and deliver top-notch bunkbeds to children and families in need. The Purple Eagles volunteered with the Buffalo chapter, helping to build the beds that will be distributed. 

As part of the United Way of Greater Niagara’s Day of Caring program, the Purple Eagles spent time at the Niagara Hospice administration building, helping the staff with some heavy-lifting and box moving. 

“These service efforts helped grow our appreciation for being student-athletes at Niagara,” Joe Kasperzyk said. “It was great to give back to those in need.”

On July 17, the team volunteered with Central Amherst Little League’s Challenger Division, which is the adaptive baseball program for kids and adults with physical and developmental challenges. The team helped 85 players, who range in age from four to 54, with batting, running bases and defense. Prior to their time with the Challenger Division, the Purple Eagles completed disability awareness training with Dave Whalen, who runs the league. 

“The best volunteers we ever had; great guys,” said Challenger coach Dan Curry. 

The Purple Eagles joined Candles in the S.U.N. to be Neighborhood Heroes, participating in Stop & Shop to distribute soap, fresh produce, and household items to residents near the Tops on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo, which was the site of a tragic mass shooting on May 14. Candles in the S.U.N. is a non-profit organization that’s goal is to advance communities and overcome the challenges faced by families and youths in intercity neighborhoods through education, mentorship and co-curricular initiatives. 

“These volunteer opportunities bonded us as a team, while also becoming more visible community members,” said Noah Thomasson. 

Finally, NU participated in the Summit Center Autism Walk, presented by West Herr. The Autism Walk raised over $270,000 that will directly impact the 1,350 children and adults who receive Summit services. 

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