Walla Walla University’s Center for Humanitarian Engagement paired with Spokane Central Adventist Church for a full day of service in early February 2024.
After a haystack lunch, WWU volunteers and Spokane Central Church members struck out for Spokane House of Charity, a homeless shelter for men. There, they washed feet, passed out socks and listened to residents’ stories.
“It was kind of a boost to get us up and moving,” said Wenda Livingston, Spokane Central member.
The volunteers rejoined with those who stayed behind to sort Bible felts at the church before ending the day with a hymn fest and game night complete with nachos.
This service day exemplifies what WWU’s CHE wants to do through its Community Action Relief Experience project. CARE weekends push the idea of service and Sabbath by helping people use their free time to give back to their communities.
One WWU volunteer said, “It was by far the most impactful and tangible Sabbath I've ever had.”
Spokane Central Church has been coordinating with CHE to bring the CARE project to their congregation. They hope it will expand the work they have been doing for the homeless population in Spokane.
WWU is a private Christian liberal arts university that offers rigorous academic programs achievable in a supportive atmosphere from dedicated professors. CHE promotes a campus-wide lifestyle of service by connecting the WWU campus with service-oriented tools, resources and opportunities. For more information, visit wallawalla.edu.
David Lopez, CHE executive director, talks with Spokane Central Adventist Church members.
Service day volunteers wash feet at Spokane House of Charity.
Marcus Lupse, CHE staff, smiles with a volunteer.
Volunteers share a haystack lunch with Spokane Central Adventist Church.
Volunteers offer free and intelligent conversation in Riverfront Park.
CHE eats a haystack lunch with Spokane Central Adventist Church.
