Summer service volunteers wanted

by Desiree Quintero
Staff Writer

Summer Service is an opportunity to help others through volunteer work and community service. It consists of doing volunteer work for 10 weeks during the summer. Volunteer work can be served in California, Oregon, Washington or Idaho.

During the 10 weeks of service help out in whatever way possible, putting others ahead of themselves.

"Summer Service is a wonderful opportunity to develop personal, spiritual and service values," said Deborah Roberts, campus minister. "It is for every student who is interested in spending the summer in an environment where they are both receiving from and giving back to the greater community," Roberts said.

"You need to be interested in volunteer work, and be interested in being away from your normal world."

Volunteers may be needed in churches, child-care centers, nursing homes and centers for the homeless and hungry. There may be need at camps at churches, for handicapped youth, for inner city children and other such community-oriented programs as well.

During the 10 weeks of service, personal goals, spiritual goals and service goals are worked on.

"You're outside your own environment and your own comfortable setting; you can work on a connection with a force outside yourself, (and) you are doing a service by volunteering," Roberts said.

Several ULV students and alumni who have completed Summer Service said it was a positive experience.

"Summer Service is a life-changing experience," said junior Elissa Salas. "It is a really great program, encouraging students to have self reflection."

"Summer Service means more than meeting people and learning new skills. It gives one a greater love and concern for the world," said Lisa Manley, ULV alumna.

During Summer Service, room and board is provided, as well as a weekly stipend of $50 each week for the 10 weeks.

The program also provides a chance to practice and develop leadership skills, make new friends and fulfill the Core 305 service-learning requirement.

Participants in Summer Service also receive a sizable scholarship of up to $3,000.

Summer Service is a great opportunity, and all are encouraged to apply. "It is a beautiful experience," Salas said.

An information table will be set up in Davenport Dinning Hall from noon to 1 p.m., March 19 to 20.

To apply for Summer Service, pick up an application at the Chapel and return it to Roberts in the Chapel office by the end of March.

Roberts can be reached at extension 4320.