Volunteer and Service Fair Attracts Hundreds of Students

The Rev. Bernard R. McIlhenny Ballroom bustled with activity as approximately 700 students attended the University of Scranton's annual Volunteer and Service Fair held Sept. 15 in the DeNaples Student Center.

The fair, organized by The Center for Service and Social Justice, connects Scranton students with local nonprofit organizations seeking volunteers to support an array of meaningful causes. This year's event featured more than 60 community partners in service areas including healthcare and hospice, youth and education, social justice initiatives, food and housing insecurity and more.

Students carried bags and information pamphlets tied to a variety of organizations and projects. The fair's popularity reflects Scranton's Jesuit foundations and commitment to graduating "men and women for others." Scranton students volunteer tens of thousands of hours per year toward community service.

For some organizations, the Royals community is crucial to maintaining and expanding helpful programs.

Lauren Chapin, community outreach administrative officer for the Lackawanna County Area Agency on Aging, searched for potential tech tutors for a program run by Age Friendly Lackawanna. The initiative provides assistance to individuals 60 and older with smartphones, laptops and a range of other devices.

"We're always looking for the helpers, and I think the U is a great place to start," Chapin said. "They really build a good foundation."

Jonathan Smath, a first-year student majoring in business communication, spoke to multiple organizations aligned with his passions for physical activity and older adult services. He explained that frequent visits to a relative under nursing care helped inspire him to uplift others.

"Me, personally, I would like to have someone to be able to talk to, and I like listening to people and helping them whatever way I can," said Smath, a member of the Scranton men's track and field team from Westchester County, New York. "The smallest gesture I can do is be a listener."

The Volunteer and Service Fair also allows students the chance to network and gain valuable experience in their fields of study.

Isabella Almeida, a first-year student majoring in biochemistry, is interested in a career in pediatric oncology and eager to make connections with medical professionals.

"The one thing I really like is how involved Scranton is in the community and getting the students to engage," Almeida, of Hazleton, said.

The University's optimal location is ideal for organizations based in downtown Scranton, leading to consistent student engagement. This is particularly true for the Saint Francis of Assisi Kitchen of the Diocese of Scranton, located within walking distance from campus at 500 Penn Avenue.

"We've been fortunate because of our proximity, and the students can come down when they are able to," Ellen Farrell, clothing operations manager and volunteer coordinator for St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, explained. "It really energizes us, and you can it's really heartfelt, too."

Those interested in learning about upcoming service opportunities on and off campus should contact Ellen Judge, outreach program coordinator and administrative assistant, at [email protected] to be added to the CSSJ's weekly email.