Donating a little bit of time can make a big impact. On Nov. 21, members of the Department of Computational and Systems Biology (CSB) spent the day volunteering at Cribs for Kids, assembling 1,000 safe-sleep survival kits for infants.
Cribs for Kids is a Pittsburgh-based organization that aims to prevent infant sleep-related deaths by educating parents and caregivers about safe sleep practices. About 3,500 infants die from sleep-related causes in the United States each year. By providing cribs for babies whose caregivers cannot afford them and educating parents about safe sleep, Cribs for Kids works to help every baby sleep safer.
While volunteering at Cribs for Kids, CSB members rolled up their sleeves and packed 1,000 safe-sleep kits, which will be distributed to families in need nationally and internationally. Each kit includes a Cribette, a fitted sheet and safe-sleep educational materials — all components that play a key role in creating a safer sleep environment for babies.
CSB members appreciated the opportunity to give back to the community in a meaningful way.
“Volunteering at Cribs for Kids was not only a great team-building experience but also a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we work together,” said Amanda Axelson, academic programs manager. “Our team came together to assemble 1,000 safe-sleep kits for new parents across our community. I can’t wait to go back and do it again!”
In addition to making an impact, CSB members valued the chance to strengthen connections with colleagues.
“Volunteering at Cribs for Kids on Friday was honestly such a bright spot in my week,” said Mandy Shaheen, assistant to the chair and educational programs coordinator. “It was great to spend time with colleagues in a different setting, all working side by side on something meaningful.”
The volunteering event brought the whole department together, including staff, faculty, students and postdoctoral associates.
“Good music, good company, and a good cause! Our day with Cribs for Kids brought us together in a wonderful way and gave us the chance to bond and give back,” Associate Professor Mert Gur added.
The department hopes to return to Cribs for Kids for future volunteer sessions.