The fifth Service First will take place Aug. 30 when more than 1,100 students, including most of the new freshman class, will help clean, update and renovate 13 St. Louis, University City and Riverview Gardens public schools.
Volunteer support from faculty and staff to help supervise and organize students for the project is welcomed.
“This year’s event should be the biggest and best so far,” said Stephanie Kurtzman, coordinator for community service and women’s programs and organizer of Service First. “It’s really become a wonderful way for us to welcome new students to the University and introduce them to the St. Louis community, as well as provide a taste of what we hope becomes an ongoing commitment to service.”
The annual project began in 1999 with about 600 student volunteers helping to clean and beautify scenic trails. This original Service First event won national recognition as one of seven “Exemplary Practices and Model Programs” from the National Association of Campus Activities. The award recognized higher education institutions that have successfully addressed a contemporary issue in student affairs with exemplary skill, creativity and resourcefulness.
Projects this year will range from painting murals, inspirational messages and playgrounds, to decorating bulletin boards, to gardening and landscaping.
Upon returning to the University after a day of work, the students will participate in a Community Service Fair and barbecue featuring more than 30 student-run organizations that focus on community service. Student bands will also perform.
For more information, call Kurtzman at 935-5994.
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