Before the Military Community Center opened in 2016, a few things were not quite in order.
“When we saw the space, we knew there was some work to be done around the center. Painting walls, putting in new carpet, and running a network were some of these things that just are not cheap,” says Tyler McManus, CCAS ’18, president of the GW Veterans student organization and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. “Colonial Crowdfunding was the smartest option when it came to being able to afford these needed renovations.”
The successful student-driven fundraising effort raised $5,550 and paid for décor, electronics, and basic supplies that helped get the space ready to provide centralized services for military-affiliated students.
“In addition to providing formal resources, the center would also serve as a space to promote community engagement, provide an inner network of support among students, increase academic success, create an informal home between classes for off-campus students, and elevate GW’s standing as a leader in military-friendly schools.”
Tyler’s hope for the center is that it’s viewed as an important location for all students. “Our organization is not exclusive to just veterans. We as an organization have members that are also dependents, ROTC, and general supporters with no military affiliation.”