The annual Saint Louis University Community Service Fair took
place Wednesday in the Quad. More 50 area service agencies and
organizations set up tables seeking to recruit students interested
in volunteering.

Students came out in droves to sign up to lend a hand.

“As a conscious member of society, I feel obliged to give
something in return to my community,” said freshman Manuel
Gonzalez.

Organizations represented ranged from well-known groups
including The United Way and Big Brothers, Big Sisters, to some
lesser-known groups, like the Vincentian Service Corps, an
organization aimed at helping the needy in the spirit of St.
Vincent de Paul. Even the St. Louis Zoo and the St. Louis County
Parks Department were in attendance.

Available service opportunities varied, with some requiring just
a couple of hours each week, to some lasting a year or more.

The centerpiece of the Community Service Fair was the kickoff of
Make a Difference Day. This year will mark SLU’s sixth year of
participation in the nationwide service day, which takes place each
year on the fourth Saturday of October.

Last year, more than 1,800 SLU students, faculty and staff
participated, helping over 50 agencies and organizations in and
around St. Louis. This year the volunteer goal is set at 2,500.

The event, sponsored by the Alpha Phi Omega co-ed service
fraternity and KMOX radio, also serves as the kick off for the
Campus Ministry food drive, and as the host site for Homeward
Bound, an annual resource day for St. Louis city and county
homeless.

“Make a Difference Day is a great way for people to find out
about the contribution SLU students make, and it’s a great way for
students to get involved in the community,” said Assistant Vice
President of APO Laura Fillenwarth.

The recruiting drive is the most comprehensive to date.
Postcards went out to all students, staff and faculty. Separate
recruiting days will take place at the Health Sciences Center.

Prizes will be given out to the groups that the greatest effort.
Rather than all the groups competing in one large group
competition, there will be separate divisions for dorms,
fraternities, sororities make and student organizations.

Those still interested in signing up for Make a Difference Day
can stop by the Center for Leadership and Community Service in
Busch Student Center suite 335, or can call the CLCS at
314-977-2805. Sign up for Make a Difference Day will continue
throughout the month.