When looking at Service Day, many students think it’s simply a day off from school. Others dive in head first and try to get the best out of the day. Looking at what the school website says about Service Day, “Live out your commitment to service each fall during Service Day. Classes are canceled and the campus unites to focus on service projects in the local community.”
Beyond that, the purpose for each person is different, but it can be condensed to classes being canceled so that Bethel College students can engage in hands-on work with local organizations, schools and businesses. There are many different options, including laying mulch and working outside, singing hymns at Kidron and cleaning up Kauffman Museum. These projects give students the opportunity to work, connect and contribute to the local community in a variety of ways.
Amy Marshall, the newly appointed campus pastor and organizer of Service Day, said, “I hope students who participated in Service Day made meaningful connections with both the people and organizations they served and the people they served with. Service positively impacts those benefiting from our work, of course, but it also shapes us into more understanding, generous people who continue to make the world a better place to live in.”
Many students think that Service Day is just about not having classes. However, freshman Diego Medina, at the Prairie View tree branch clean up, said, “It’s a fun experience to give back to the community.” Freshman Savannah Ung, who worked at the Newton hospital organizing papers and folders said that, “The most impactful part is being able to take away some of the small but tedious things to do from health care workers.” Her favorite part of the day was being able to meet and work with the other volunteers.
Sophomore Mara Oswald said, “Service Day is an important way that a college can impact our community. By serving others we are extending peace to those around us. My service Day experience reminded me that small acts can make a big difference.” According to many Bethel students, Service Day is not just about having classes canceled, but about being able to offer a helping hand, getting involved in the community and getting outside.