National Hazing Prevention Week: Community Building Activities

September 25, 2023

National Hazing Prevention Week is held from September 25 – 29, and The Ohio State University is helping raise awareness and increase education about hazing. Below are some healthy alternatives to hazing for student organizations, clubs and teams: 

• Participate in Community Service: Student Life offers many opportunities to serve with your group through our Leadership and Community Engagement programs. Other opportunities can also be found through the Kindness Initiative. Individuals and organizations can sign up for the email list to be notified about events and opportunities happening at Ohio State and in the Columbus community.  
   
• Team-Building Exercises: Team building activities can help strengthen community and trust within an organization, helping to eliminate the chances of hazing and create a positive experience for members. These can include icebreaker games, goal-setting exercises, hosting meaningful discussions or playing games like charades or Pictionary to spark creativity.  
   
• Plan a Retreat: Whether you host an event on-campus or travel outside of Columbus, retreats can be a great way to get to know members in a casual setting. Attending a movie or concert together, hosting a self-care evening or craft night, organizing a potluck, going on a team hike or taking a trip to a local farmers market are just some of the many possibilities.  
   
• Organize a Philanthropy Event: Working together on a mutual goal can be rewarding. Ask your members what they are passionate about and plan a philanthropy activity to help raise money for charity. This can be organizing a 5k run/walk, developing a marketing campaign for an online fundraiser or hosting a bake sale on-campus! 

Hazing prevention is everyone’s responsibility at Ohio State. You can learn more about Collin’s Law and how to report instances of hazing at stophazing.osu.edu.