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Exchange Club gives back to community by Cindy Abole Public Relations  They are known around campus more for their work than their charity. Since 1995, the University Exchange Club has enlisted a team of managers, hospital staff and co-workers to dedicate their time for outreach and fund-raising to assist child abuse victims and others in need around the Charleston community. Besides meeting bi-monthly, University Exchange Club members also plan social gatherings every quarter. Here, members enjoyed oysters and each other's company at Bohicket Creek. During their last meeting on June 6, the group presented checks to two Charleston-area charities. A $3,000 check was given to the Lowcountry Children's Center. The money was raised from the group's efforts scooping ice cream and selling other refreshments at the Coastal Carolina Fair. Proceeds from last month's second annual wine tasting event raised another $1,500. The money was presented to the Parent-Child Resource Center, formerly the Exchange Club Center to Prevent Child Abuse. Both fund-raising donations help to support the group's national efforts to assist children and help in the prevention of child abuse. “I wish more people would join us and get to know how we're giving back to the community,” said Joe Hodge, professor emeritus, College of Pharmacy and current president of the University Exchange Club. The organization is one of 14 exchange clubs serving the Tri-county area. The University Exchange Club is composed of about 30 members, 25 being MUSC employees, and other Charleston area professionals. “Although we're small, we were able to work together and raise funds to give away $4,500 this year,” said Donna McClellan, director of lab services and incoming club president. “That says a lot for us. We're especially committed to doing something positive by giving back to the community. Mostly, we're a group with a lot of heart.” The group meets mornings on the first and third Tuesdays of each month in room 100 of the Library and Administration Building. The hour-long meeting begins early to accommodate their work schedules. The meetings feature general business and outside speakers, allowing members to discuss current issues, community happenings, education and other activities. Previous gatherings have featured  representatives from Charleston County School District and the Gibbes Art Gallery.  The group's mission coincides with the National Exchange Club focus of educational outreach, membership and fund-raising. “As we gain more people, we have a better chance to spread the work among us and be more resourceful,” said McClellan.  Membership recruitment is conducted almost exclusively by referral with current members. The key is to find potential members through personal contacts, McClellan said.  “There are so many worthwhile projects to get involved with,” Hodge said. “If we don't give back to the community, the community doesn't benefit.” The group is preparing now for its installation dinner, which will be held June 15.  “The beauty of this program is that it's run exclusively here on campus,” McClellan said. “For many of us and our busy lives, we couldn't have done it any other way.” For more information about the University Exchange Club, contact McClellan, 792-8757; club secretary Kim Stavrnakis at 792-9636; or treasurer Michelle Peterson, 792-0075.  Persons can access the National Exchange Club at <http://www.nationalexchangeclub.com> Members of the University Exchange Club are: Jo Ann Bolchoz, Gilbert Bradham, Emily Brown, Yvonne Evans, Dr. Sid Katz, Lisa Montgomery, Lawrence Moser, Dr. Gordan Stine, Joseph Thompson, David S. Cox, Eric Frisch, Darren McCants, Michelle Jackson, Kim Stavrinakis, Brenda Falls, Bruce White, Claire Hoefer, Michelle Peterson, Joe Hodge, Jim Ullrich, James Davis, Chris Malanuk, Stuart Smith, Mansle Raines, Donna McClellan, Dr. Julian McGill, Dr. Jim Ryan and Dr. Haldor Jonnson.