Project H.E.A.R.T. leads student organizations in charitable acts by giving back to the student body at every event the group hosts. Whether through scholarships, friendship or a meal, the club’s goal is to help those who need it most. This mission is reflected in the meaning of H.E.A.R.T.: Helping Educate and Raise Tomorrow’s Leaders.
Student organizations often start from humble beginnings, and Project H.E.A.R.T. is no different. It was initiated and founded by Yasmin Ruiz after she was inspired by a club she was part of in high school. That organization raised $250,000 to provide four students with full-ride scholarships of $60,000.
“Whenever you’re in it and you’re talking to the recipients, you see how much it really impacts their lives,” Ruiz said. “They were going through really hard things and felt unchosen and forgotten. This made them feel cared about for the first time in a while.”
Taking this idea into her college career, Ruiz gathered friends from high school who also came to OCCC to begin something new. Since its inception, the club has grown in both membership and the number of efforts it carries out for the student body. Last year, members were able to award two $500 scholarships through bake sales and other fundraising events alone.
One of the club’s early events was a pickleball tournament, an idea that came from Ruiz’s high school friend and the current club vice president, Jack Ramos.
Ramos shared his passion for his role in the club.
“I’ve always just loved leadership, hosting events, talking with people, getting everything planned,” Ramos explained. “It’s such a fun energy. I’ve been doing it since I was a sophomore in high school. I did designs in Canva, helped host events and helped organize everything.”
Project H.E.A.R.T. also gains support from faculty through its club advisor. Deborah Morgan, a sociology professor with experience advising clubs, shares the same goals as the student organization.
As an OCCC alumna, Morgan understands the importance of addressing student needs at a community college. When approached to serve as the club’s advisor, she recognized the value of the organization’s mission.
“I still talk to people from whenever I was a student here,” Morgan said. “It is important for students to make these connections when possible. We’re a commuter campus, so we’re glad to offer students the opportunity to come together and network and build those connections.”
Moving forward, the group hopes to expand its charitable efforts by gaining more members and building additional connections across campus. All students are invited to attend the club’s bi-weekly meetings on Wednesdays at 3 p.m. in Room 2N3.
