UHCL Service Week 2026 inspires campus-wide impact

The University of Houston-Clear Lake community is coming together this week for Service Week 2026, a campus-wide initiative dedicated to giving back, fostering connection, and empowering students to make a difference.

Running from April 13 through April 18, the week features a series of events that highlight UHCL's commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement.

Donation drive supports local families

Kicking off the week is the ONSP Donation Drive, taking place April 13-17. Organized by Orientation & New Student Programs (ONSP), the drive supports students and families in need.

Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to donate essential items, including baby food, diapers, wipes, and personal care products. Donation bins are located throughout campus for convenience, and items may also be dropped off at the ONSP office in the Student Services and Classroom Building (SSCB), room 1.201.02.

A Spring 2026 Clothing Drive is also being held to support students in need of professional attire. Gently used or new professional clothing may be donated to the Career Closet at the Center for Career Development in SSCB 3109.

Creating space for connection

On Tuesday, April 14, students can participate in The Art of Belonging, a creative workshop that blends mental health awareness with hands-on art activities and group discussion.

Hosted in SSCB room 2.103 (SOCAL) from 4 to 5 p.m., the event offers a supportive environment for students to reflect, connect, and express themselves, reinforcing that community care is an essential part of service.

Hands-on service across campus

Service Week also offers students multiple opportunities to roll up their sleeves and make a visible impact on campus.

On Tuesday, April 14, students are invited to join Hawks 4 Community (H4C) and the Environmental Institute of Houston (EIH) for a campus service day held from 9-11 a.m. Volunteers will help weed and mulch flower beds, plant native plants, maintain pathways, and trim trees and bushes, all while connecting with staff and contributing to a more beautiful campus environment.

On Wednesday, April 15, students can continue their impact at the Native Garden Maintenance Event from 9-11 a.m., a hands-on opportunity to care for the Green Thumb League's native garden on campus. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, bring a reusable water bottle, and wear closed-toe shoes. The event also provides a great way to earn volunteer hours while supporting sustainability efforts.

Exploring opportunities at the Community Engagement Fair

The Community Engagement Fair on Wednesday, April 15, invites students to connect with local nonprofits and campus organizations in the Bayou Building Atrium from 2-4:30 p.m.

The event provides opportunities to explore internships, volunteer roles, and service projects, helping students turn their interests into meaningful action while building leadership skills and professional experience.

An evening of reflection and impact

On Thursday, April 16, from 6-8 p.m., students can attend Community Impact Night, an inspiring evening focused on service and civic responsibility.

Over a shared dinner, participants will hear from nonprofit leaders and fellow students about how community engagement creates real-world change and supports personal growth. The event aims to leave attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer understanding of the impact they can make.

The Big Event

Service Week concludes with The Big Event on Saturday, April 18, UHCL's largest annual day of service.

From 8 a.m.-1 p.m., students, faculty, and staff will work alongside community partners on projects that address real local needs. The event emphasizes teamwork, leadership, and the powerful impact of collective service.

A week of purpose

Service Week is more than a lineup of events at UHCL. It reflects the university's values in action. Through donations, dialogue, and direct service, the campus community is demonstrating how small efforts can lead to meaningful change.

Students are encouraged to get involved, give back, and be part of a tradition that continues to strengthen both campus and community.

For more information and to register for events, visit HawkLink under the Events tab.