The words “work” and “weekend” are barely used in the same breath among most college students, but a select few takes time out Saturday mornings to help keep our campus looking beautiful.

As Andrea Johnson zips her jacket to fight off the icy winds that were blowing this past Saturday afternoon, she realizes there isn’t as much trash surrounding the UC patio as she expected.

“I’m glad there isn’t that much to pick up today with the weather being a bit on the cold side,” said the freshmen nursing major from Memphis.

Seven other participants were present Saturday gathering as much trash as they could before they all ended up in the same spot, since most of the debris was in one area. Despite the uncomfortable weather conditions the clean-up crew continued their work unaffected. The Saturday Morning Clean-up Crew meets at 12 noon on Saturdays in the UC to discuss the areas they will be cleaning that day. Lovita Graham, a senior economics major and president of the SMCC from Houston, Tx., said “one goal I anticipate is to expand this organization out to the community.”

The SMCC has been cleaning the campus since They have cleaned areas such as the UC parking lot, the circle parking lot between McCord and Ellington, as well as the UC patio and surrounding areas.

Students can earn two community service hours on a regular Saturday and up to four hours when in conjunction with community participation. Crystal Fifer, a senior Psychology major from Memphis said, “Being a part of the SMCC gives us a chance to gain community service hours as well as help keep our campus clean.”

The labors of the SMCC is greatly appreciated by administration as well, David Belote, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs said. “It’s always refreshing to see service minded students come together to make a difference, along with setting a good example, they are educating our community on the value and importance of a clean environment.”

There are about 30 students currently on record who have participated in the clean-up, and the project welcomes all students and community members to help.