Community Service Club Helps Out in LA
Members of the student-run community service club traveled to Los Angeles over Christmas break to work at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, one of the largest in the country.
“We worked alongside hundreds of other volunteers, sorting food donated by grocery stores and bakeries,” says junior Ashley Douglas. “Many who come to the food bank have lost their job and have children to feed. The food bank serves about one million people annually. Knowing that we helped others who genuinely need it felt great.”
“This service trip taught me to be grateful for everything I have,” says freshman Nathalie DeLoach. “I also learned that volunteering and helping others can be a really fun experience! All the volunteers brought a lighthearted attitude to the food bank, which made the work fun. We stayed at Asher House near UCLA, and I had a great time walking around the area and familiarizing myself with the city. ”
As it happened, the students were in Los Angeles when the San Gabriel Valley Principia Club hosted its annual Christmas Sing, so they joined the festivities. “Going to the Christmas sing was the best way to cap off the trip!” exclaims junior Kendall Shoemake. “It was really gratifying to meet alumni and hear them reminisce about Principia. They were so interested in us and our Prin experience. I shared stories about the rugby team, and they really appreciated hearing about our successful season this year.”
Robert Pennamon, faculty advisor to the club, sees wonderful benefits from activities like this one. “The biggest benefit to service,” he explains, "is that it enables students to come out of their comfort zone. It helps them overcome a sense of fear so that they can be a presence in the community and discover real purpose.”