News Center

Published November 14, 2025

MONROE, La. – The University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) and The Center for Children & Families are once again joining forces this holiday season for the Warhawks for Hope: Christmas Project, a service initiative that unites students, faculty, and staff in spreading hope to children from hard places. 

This marks the second year of the partnership, following a successful 2024 campaign that resulted in 1,008 donated items, $340 raised, and seven student volunteers, along with two service learning workshops on campus. 

This year’s donation drive will run from November 12 to December 3, with a main drop-off location in Walker 2-37, and other locations across campus. The campaign benefits children and families served by The Center for Children & Families’ annual Christmas Project, which provides new toys, clothing, and essentials to children facing hardships such as abuse, neglect, poverty, and trauma. 

Service Learning in Action 

To kick off this year’s efforts, ULM hosted the Warhawks for Hope Service Learning Workshop on Tuesday, November 11th, where students learned about the realities of child abuse and neglect in northeast Louisiana, along with the profound impact trauma has upon the brain of those affected.  Additionally, attendees learned how to connect classroom knowledge with community impact. The interactive presentation guided participants through the importance of service learning and showcased how small acts, like collecting donations or volunteering, can create lasting change for local families. 

"Seeing students engage and understand the direct impact they can make in their own community is incredibly rewarding," said Dr. Amy Weems, ULM Assistant Professor of Education. "Warhawks for Hope is a beautiful example of how service learning empowers our students to practice empathy, civic responsibility, and leadership, all while supporting children who need it most." 

Service learning allows ULM students to contribute through indirect service (donating items or organizing drives), direct service (volunteering with The Center for Children & Families), or advocacy (sharing awareness on campus and in the community). 

Continuing a Legacy of Hope 

For over 25 years, The Center for Children & Families has served thousands of children and families across Northeast Louisiana through counseling, advocacy, and prevention programs. The organization’s Christmas Project ensures that every child they serve receives gifts and essentials during the holidays—many for the first time. 

"The children we serve have faced immense challenges, but through partnerships like Warhawks for Hope, we’re able to bring joy and stability to their holidays," said Chris Ramsey, Chief Operating Officer at The Center for Children & Families. "It’s inspiring to see the ULM community come together again to make sure no child is forgotten this season." 

How to Get Involved 

Members of the ULM community and the public can participate by: 

Donating new toys, clothing, or winter essentials at the campus collection sites in Walker Hall 2-37 and other campus buildings.  

Volunteering to help organize, sort, or prepare donations for families. 

Giving financial contributions online at www.standforhope.org or by texting STANDFORHOPE to 53555. 

About The Center for Children & Families 

The Center for Children & Families is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting safe, healthy environments for children and families who have experienced difficulties. Through advocacy, counseling, education, and prevention services, The Center offers hope to those who need it the most. The Center served nearly 5,000 children through its service last year.