IUNited is proud to share the success of our 2025 Fall Bake Sale, where students came together with compassion, creativity, and purpose to raise $1,302.75 for St. Jude House, surpassing our original $1,200 goal. This achievement represents more than just numbers; it reflects the dedication and heart of our members, volunteers, and supporters who believe in giving back to our community.
From the very start, our team approached this event with careful coordination and genuine excitement. For nearly a month, the Bake Sale Planning Committee, consisting of Yessenia Hernandez, Brandi O’Neal, Luke Baczkowski, Sally Cespedes, and Isiah Wilson, spent their Friday evenings in early Zoom meetings, planning every detail to ensure a smooth and successful event. Each committee member played a vital role in making the bake sale both efficient and meaningful.
Isiah Wilson demonstrated outstanding dedication by volunteering to drive over an hour to pick up baked goods, overcoming a language barrier and ensuring everything arrived safely. Brandi O’Neal added creativity and warmth with her ideas for the hot chocolate stand, fall-themed setup, and overall aesthetic that caught the attention of students and staff alike. Sally Cespedes went above and beyond by investing her own money in brand new easels, tablecloths, and decorations that completely transformed the table display. Luke Baczkowski, who volunteered his entire day off to help run the event, also made a generous $300 donation that helped cover remaining expenses and bring the event to completion.
Beyond the planning committee, student volunteers were the heart of this event. They worked tirelessly to serve customers, manage sales, and maintain an uplifting atmosphere throughout the day. Each volunteer contributed not only their time but also their positive energy, helping IUNited connect with the broader student body in a meaningful way.
Our Giving Tree graphic, featured on our social media, recognizes every individual who played a role in this event. The pumpkins and acorns represent students who volunteered their time, while the leaves symbolize those who supported us through purchases or donations. Every name and symbol reflects someone who helped bring this initiative to life, together forming a community of kindness and impact.
For many IUNited members, this event also marked their first volunteer experience, making the bake sale even more special. Watching students grow confident, collaborate with one another, and find joy in helping others was a rewarding experience for all involved.
“I saw students show genuine passion in their work of service,” said Marwah Tarakey, President and Founder of IUNited. “They were excited and motivated to make as big of a difference as they could. For many, this was their first volunteer experience, and they could not have asked for a better one. Opportunities like these truly get the wheel turning and inspire continued involvement in giving back.”
The success of this event is a reflection of what IUNited stands for: unity, service, and community. Each bake sale, volunteer outing, and fundraiser strengthens our mission to connect students to the importance of volunteerism and inspire them to take action beyond the classroom.
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, creativity, and support to make this possible. Because of your generosity, compassion, and teamwork, IUNited continues to grow as a force for good in our community. Together, we are proof that small acts of kindness can create a lasting impact. 🤍
Sincerely,
Marwah Tarakey
President and Founder of IUNited
IUNited 
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