Adjusting to college life can come in waves, and it is not always easy. We all, at some point, come across an obstacle that we cannot overcome by ourselves. Northern Michigan University has an organization specifically designed for students who need help to overcome those obstacles. 

NMU Ripple Effect allows students to focus on academic and community involvement. The volunteer organization recognizes and appreciate the value NMU students bring to the Northern community and seeks to promote a relationship between the university and the Marquette community.

Ripple Effect works to bring resources to students who are in need, from winter coats and kitchen supplies to everyday needs like toiletries and groceries. They also have an emergency fund for students who need financial help covering important expenses. These are all resources that will allow students to thrive at Northern. 

Kelly Ryan is the newest president of NMU Ripple Effect, and she received the position through a contact with a Marquette Ripple Effect community member a few months ago. As a student, she was able to restart the organization on campus.

“I believe the most important service is the coat rack located in Hedgcock. The winters in Marquette are long and cold,” Ryan said. “It is very important to make sure that students are bundled up and safe throughout the long-lasting winter.”

Along with its many resources, NMU Ripple Effect hosts annual events like the Stuff Swap and Halloween Bake Sale. The Stuff Swap is a chance for students to donate clothes or other items they do not need or use anymore. Students can take stuff, drop stuff off or both. The Halloween Bake Sale is held to help raise money for Ripple Effect.

Ripple Effect is not just there for students who need help, it is also around for students who would like the opportunity to participate in helping people.

“Ripple Effect looks great on resumes because it’s all about making campus a better place,” Ryan said. “It shows that you care about making a difference on campus and directly helping students continue to thrive.”

Looking toward the future, Ripple Effect is currently working on putting a website together. They are looking for student help with the website and to make it more accessible to the student body. Ripple Effect is also looking to make a form of the food pantry that is mobile around campus to make it easier for student to have access to food.

Students who are interested in being a part of Ripple Effect can register on The Hub. To get access to the services that Ripple Effect offers, students can stop by the Dean of Students Office or Student Support Services located in Hedgcock 2001 and 2102. Students can also contact Kelly Ryan at [email protected] or Peter Holliday, one of the Marquette Ripple Effect members, at [email protected].