On Saturday, March 9, the Willamette community will roll up its sleeves, put on some gloves and get to work.
The third annual Global Day of Service will bring together Willamette students and alumni from around the world to participate in local community service projects. The event celebrates and manifests Willamette’s motto, “Not unto ourselves alone are we born,” by demonstrating that a collective effort can make a big impact on the community.
The service day began as a way to commemorate Willamette’s 175th anniversary but has quickly become a new tradition for current students and alumni.
“Global Day of Service is a unique tradition,” says Kendrick Arakaki ’14, assistant director of alumni and parent engagement. “It's been a pleasure to work with alumni and students who are passionate about contributing to their local communities and connecting with fellow Bearcats."
This year, the event will take on a truly global scope, with a service project in Saitama, Japan organized by alumni from Tokyo International University of America. The Office of International Education will also work with current students studying abroad to encourage volunteerism around the world.
Interested faculty, staff and students are encouraged to participate in the six projects happening around Salem. Willamette alumni can attend projects organized by alumni volunteers in Portland, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Seattle and Honolulu, Hawaii. All are welcome to organize projects in communities where they live.
A full list of organized projects can be found online and photos will be shared using the hashtag #teamwillamette.