On Oct. 18, 2023, the Walla Walla University campus joined forces to serve the community during fall service day.
Participants chose from a variety of projects from thrift store inventory sorting to landscaping work, all designed to meet specific local needs.
Students have the opportunity to participate in quarterly service days at WWU to inspire each other to learn and grow through generosity in service. This is accomplished by building relationships with community members and working to meet the diverse needs of the Walla Walla Valley.
Participants enjoyed breakfast together before splitting up to complete their various service projects and reconvened for lunch when the projects were finished. Nicole Jackson, sophomore biology major, said she chose to participate in service day because she finds it both fulfilling to make a difference for others and relaxing to take a break from classes.
Jackson worked on a project at the Atlas, WWU’s café and study house, putting together care packages for student missionaries serving around the world. Jackson’s favorite moment of the day was when she came across the name of someone she knew who was working as a student missionary.
“I immediately knew I wanted to send a letter and give them a note of encouragement,” Jackson said. “I put myself in her place and knew that was just what I would love to receive.”
“By having a day of service, we are showing our community that we are here and that we care,” said Jackson. “We are able to make an impact on a bigger scale than we even realize, doing our part for this community.”
Jackson shared that a number of her friends were struck by how much they benefited by doing community service. One student found a new friend in an elderly woman whose house they helped clean and organize.
WWU’s Center for Humanitarian Engagement has a multitude of upcoming service opportunities for those interested in getting involved in continued outreach. Learn more about the work being done by the CHE at wallawalla.edu/che.
