The National Residence Hall Honorary is raising money for the Mills Breast Cancer Institute in Champaign by selling T-shirts and have already sold more than 300 shirts.

The NRHH has been raising money for this institute for six years by selling breast cancer awareness T-shirts.

Mark Hudson, the director of University Housing and Dining Services, said over the years, the NRHH has raised more than $20,000 for the Institute.

“One of the most impressive things is that NRHH have adopted this organization and have stuck with it for a number of years,” Hudson said. “ I think that shows an ongoing relationship between a university organization; they see it as their cause.”

Chelsea Beaty, a senior communication disorders and sciences major and a member of NRHH, said she enjoys supporting the cause.

“All of the proceeds are going to the Mills foundation, so it’s a good cause,” Beaty said. “I’m glad people are supporting it.”

Janelle Reese, a senior special education and elementary education major, said this is an easy way to support a good cause.

“Breast cancer is something that affects a lot of people,” Reese said. “I have an aunt who is a breast cancer survivor.”

Caitlin Garstkiewicz, a junior psychology major and a member of NRHH, said supporting this institute helps them fulfill one of society’s main goals.

“I would definitely say one of the four pillars is service,” Garstkiewicz said. “We are really committed to service, and this is one way we do philanthropy.”

The Mills Breast Cancer Institute has also named an operating room named after NRHH and Eastern.

“Through the selling of these T-shirts that are very popular on campus, they take the profits and make fairly substantial contributes,” Hudson said.

Garstkiewicz said they like supporting the foundation because of all the work they do.

“The other members have expressed that they feel such a large connection when they go there, so it’s so rewarding to give to this foundation,” Garstkiewicz said.

Sarah Wulf, a sophomore special education major, said she buys a shirt for many of her family members.

“My family has a history of breast cancer,” Wulf said.

Jamie Montgomery, a senior family and consumer sciences major, said she tries to buy a shirt every year.

“My grandma had breast cancer, so that is why I buy them,” Montgomery said.

Hudson said most students have felt the effects of breast cancer.

“I think for some, being supportive and buying a T-shirt is their way of helping with a public issue like breast cancer,” Hudson said.

Wulf said she also felt it showed support for Eastern.

“It is what Eastern is all about,” Wulf said. “Everyone here donates to good things.”

The T-shirt sale will continue from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Friday.

Garstkiewicz said this year she likes the shirts because of the support it shows.

“I like how it encompasses breast cancer awareness and EIU,” Garstkiewicz said. “It shows (Eastern’s) dedication to service.”

Samantha McDaniel can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].