Evangel students seek opportunity at volunteer fair

September 28, 2007

Evangel’s Behavioral Sciences Department and LifeWorks co-sponsored a Volunteer Fair on Sept. 25, 2007.

By showcasing 25 area agencies, this event provided students with an opportunity to connect with representatives from a variety of local service organizations.

Natalie Stout, sophomore social work major, spoke with representatives at several tables. She is interested in volunteering for the Pregnancy Care Center, the American Red Cross or Convoy of Hope.

“It’s easy to get caught up in your own little bubble,” Stout said. “Through this event we can better reach out into the community.”

Beyond her commitment to helping others, Stout can also complete required service hours toward her social work degree.

Though the event is intended to familiarize students with ways to serve others locally, the Volunteer Fair is also beneficial for participating organizations.

Chrysta Forrest, social worker for Willard Public Schools, said that student volunteers create more opportunities for school outreach. Forrest and one other social worker serve preschool through high school students and their families in Willard. With the help of student volunteers from Evangel, they can conduct more programs and reach more people.

Forrest believes it is important for students interested in going into human services to be involved. “Students have the opportunity to be exposed to the need and get experience in an early part of their education,” she said.

Several students signed up on Forrest’s roster for more information on volunteering at Willard Schools.

The Volunteer Fair was open to all students, and many connected with organizations that interested to them.