Western New England University held its Community Engagement Fair on Tuesday, September 6, from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. in the Campus Center Mall. Students and faculty were eager to gather information and sign up to volunteer for various nonprofit organizations in the Greater Springfield area.
The University’s Center for Civic Engagement educates students to be socially conscious, skilled, and committed to a just, diverse, and inclusive community. Assistant Director for the Center for Civic Engagement, Emma Seils, explained that Community Engagement Fair is, “a great way to connect students and organizations with volunteer opportunities. It’s about students understanding how to improve the community they live in by helping others, by serving.”
Freshman Laura Coffin said she really enjoyed volunteering back in her hometown of Islip Terrace, NY, and didn’t want to lose touch with that part of her life while away at school. “I signed up for the Springfield School Volunteers because I really like helping people with school work and tutoring kids.” Coffin also explained that she always offered to tutor students in her high school classes, especially since she loves math and science. “It makes me feel good to help others, especially when I know I struggle with some things too. I’m just thankful to have the ability to give back.”
About two dozen nonprofits organizations set up information tables including, Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society, Ronald McDonald House, Springfield Rescue Mission, The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, and many more.
