At NDSU, students demonstrate compassion for their community and local causes in many ways. Serve with the Herd, a service event organized by the NDSU Volunteer Network, is one example of students making a difference in the community.
More than 100 students volunteered at this year’s event at various sites around Fargo-Moorhead, including Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, Bonanzaville and several other local businesses.
“I think volunteering is an excellent opportunity for students to get out of their comfort zone and meet people with similar interests working towards a common goal,” said Dayton Fiddler, a junior at NDSU and community engagement specialist at the Volunteer Network. “This community cares about our university – it’s important to them. This is our opportunity to show we care about them just as much as they care about us.”
Volunteerism and service are tremendous ways to enhance the NDSU experience. Katheryn Holzer, an English education major, said serving and helping others has enriched her life in many ways.
“Not only does volunteering help me build relationships and make connections at NDSU and in our community, but it has also led to meeting new friends with similar interests,” she said.
The NDSU Volunteer Network is an on-campus resource providing students with a variety of opportunities to give back to surrounding communities. The organization also coordinates special programs and events throughout the academic year to address community needs and connect local non-profits to student volunteers with similar interests.
“Volunteering either on campus or in the community is crucial to helping students develop into the leaders of tomorrow,” said Tryston Simek, coordinator for campus activities. “I think these experiences allow students to develop teamwork, networking and leadership skills that are important both while at NDSU and when they leave the institution to pursue their careers.”
NDSU students recorded 9,378 hours of community service during the 2020-2021 academic year. The volunteers saved the community an estimated $280,871.
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