by Katie Patrick
In a world that often seems preoccupied with the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is heartwarming to witness young people stepping up to make a difference in their communities. Recently, 15 students from Hastings College did just that by volunteering for a day at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska.
The volunteers arrived at CSS Hastings and were divided into groups to tackle the various projects that our staff prepared for the day. Several students prepared hundreds of sandwiches. These sandwiches are served to the homeless and working poor of downtown Hastings Monday through Friday.
The sandwiches are typically made throughout the year by various church groups in the area, as well as by students like those from Hastings College.
While some students were busy making sandwiches, others spent time with our staff at the thrift store. Every day, we receive countless donations from the community that we must sort through, deciding what items can be sold at the store and what items are better suited to be recycled. By sorting and organizing items for recycling, the students contributed to our agency’s commitment to environmental sustainability while supporting the thrift store's mission to provide affordable goods to those in need. Their work not only reduced waste but also supported a sustainable approach to community assistance.
One of the most physically demanding tasks of the day was dismantling of wire and metal for recycling. This job not only benefited the environment by diverting materials from the landfills but also provided an opportunity for the students to collaborate and serve in a way that not many think of when volunteering at your local nonprofit. At the end of the day, their service not only left a lasting impression on those they helped but also underscored the importance of volunteerism in today's society.
At Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, we have many, many opportunities for individuals and groups to volunteer throughout the year. Whether someone can commit weekly, monthly, or even once-a-year, there is a place and an opportunity for everyone to make a difference. We’re in the process of posting a variety of volunteer opportunities with full descriptions on our website. To get started or learn more, visit us at www.csshope.org. Thank you in advance for your consideration in joining our team of volunteers! May God bless you!
