Walla Walla University students are determined to make the world a better place — starting at home.
High Five, launched in the mid-90s, is an outreach to junior high students in the Walla Walla Valley focusing on five themes: service, spiritual growth, missions, leadership and social. Weekly meetings include discussing scripture, meeting with returned student missionaries, delivering care packages, or fellowship.
"The leadership piece has really proven to be an important part of High Five," says Adam Newbold, one of several High Five student leaders. "We've seen kids become more comfortable up front just by the small things they do here. It's a great place to get out of your box and build your skills in a safe environment with your friends."
FaceOff, the high school version of High Five, focuses on providing a safe and positive atmosphere for students to socialize and respond to opportunities for experiencing God in ways they may not at school or home.
"We do our best to meet the students where they're at," explains Newbold. "No matter who they are or what they believe, we want to foster positive relationships with the youth that expose them to healthy, balanced Christian lifestyles."
Other ways include:
Amnesty International — an organization that campaigns for internationally recognized human rights. WWU's club has partnered with other local groups to sponsor fundraising events for things such as a local women's shelter.
The Awakening — a student-created, student-led worship service with a mission to "fight apathy and grow as disciples of Jesus." This group has raised several thousand dollars over the last two years for causes, including supporting Project Patch in Idaho and sponsoring a young student in India through high school.
Engineers Without Borders — the WWU chapter of this international organization has earned national grants and organized fundraisers allowing them to tackle a three-part project to expand and improve an elementary school in Honduras. WWU students do all research, design and on-site management.
For more information, contact the chaplain's office at 800-541-8900, ext. 2010.
A student leads the music at the Awakening, a weekly student-led Sabbath worship service that regularly fills beyond the capacity of the auditorium. (Paddy McCoy)
Students lead the song service during the Awakening, a student-led Sabbath worship service that regularly fills the auditorium beyond capacity. (Paddy McCoy)
High Five leaders are, back row, from left: Kris Loewen, Adam Newbold, Bryson Bechtel and Jared Anderson: Front row, from left are: Kandice Bolster, Krystal Dressler, Bridget Bechtel and Arla Herbel.
