DeKALB – Jim Bennett walked into the MLK Commons on Northern Illinois University’s campus with two shoes Thursday, but left barefoot.

Bennett was one of many students who took their shoes off and threw them into a pile right in the middle of campus to support NIU Engineers Without Borders “A Day Without Shoes” event, which helps sends donated footwear to people in developing countries.

“I like to try to give when I can, and this is pretty minimal,” said Bennett, a sophomore. “I have three more pairs at home.”