A CSM Tradition Grows to New Heights
In the spring of 1997, College of Saint Mary began a tradition that has grown into a day our CSM Community looks forward to each and every year. A time where we come together, work hard, give of ourselves and reflect on the blessings in our lives. This year that Spirit of Service tradition drew in record breaking numbers; a total of 385 volunteers.
“On this day our students learn outside the classroom,” explains Caelee Lehman, special events coordinator. “To serve others and make a difference throughout our community is a life experience we want all of our students to have.”
In one day, volunteers completed more than 26 projects throughout the Omaha Metro at 20 local non-profit/service agencies. Volunteers gathered at College of Saint Mary Lied Fitness Center for a 7:45 a.m. kickoff the morning of April 14. Together they traveled to locations across Omaha for either a half-day or full-day of service. There was a wide range of service opportunities for the CSM volunteers.
Crews of student workers flocked to Habitat of Humanity houses where they measured, hammered, painted and cut in order to build new homes, or bring aged and failing ones back to life. They donned hard hats, climbed ladders and learned construction skills from seasoned builders. The new and refurbished structures will provide decent homes for deserving North Omaha residents. It was a deeply meaningful day for the volunteers.
“For me, Spirit of Service Day means taking part in something bigger than what I do in my day-to-day life,” explains Rachel Etter, senior psychology major at College of Saint Mary. She was one of 51 students who volunteered at one of the Habitat for Humanity sites.
Other groups of CSM students sorted, steamed and displayed formal wear and gowns for the South High Schools Prom Drive. They made and distributed lunches to those in need at Holy Family Church, downtown. One group found themselves at a location that was previously unknown to them – Benson Plant Rescue.
Dr. Christine Pharr, vice president for alumnae and donor relations, led a group of students, faculty, staff and alumnae, including long-time volunteer Diane Langel Proulx ‘72, assistant vice president for alumnae and donor relations, who found herself measuring out sample bags of worm castings. She explained, “It’s basically worm poo, but it’s an excellent fertilizer for indoor and outdoor plants.”
Benson Plant Rescue recycles damaged, overstocked and end-of-season nursery good from area retailers and gardeners. One of Benson Plant Rescue’s community service efforts is providing free vegetable plants and seeds to area families to ensure their food security.
Etter says that Spirit of Service Day helps remind her “to stop regularly to offer a helping hand, each and every day, no matter who it is, as we all have the same purpose in life.”
“Often I get caught up in what my next Facebook status should be, or what I will be eating for lunch, and I forget to remember that some people around me don't have the same luxuries.”
