Over 120 University of Portland students volunteer at schools, parks and non-profits as part of annual Service Plunge, August 22-23 | University of Portland

Over 120 University of Portland students volunteer at schools, parks and non-profits as part of annual Service Plunge, August 22-23

Moreau Center

August 22, 2017

Over 120 University of Portland students, including freshmen and transfer students, arrived early on campus this week to volunteer at local schools, parks and non-profit organizations during the Moreau Center’s annual Service Plunge, August 22-23.

The Service Plunge provides an opportunity for first-year and transfer students to spend their first days as a University of Portland student volunteering with local service agencies. Students will have the opportunity to meet new people, work hard and immerse themselves in their new Portland community.

Under the direction of 30 student leaders, Service Plunge volunteers will complete several projects at eleven locations around Portland prior to the start of the 2017-18 school year on August 28.  Locations include clean-up and preparation at schools, non-profits, and at a Portland Parks & Recreation inclusive playground.

On Tuesday, August 22 students will be volunteering at the Village Garden and the Regence Boys & Girls Club in the New Columbia neighborhood.

On Wednesday, August 24, students will be working at several sites, including Cesar Chavez Elementary School, Harper’s Playground at Arbor Lodge Park in north Portland, Because People Matter, Holy Cross Catholic Parish, and Sabin Elementary School.

The Service Plunge will end around 10 a.m. on Thursday, August 25, when participating students will join other UP students as they settle into their residence hall rooms and enjoy Orientation Weekend on the University campus.

About the Moreau Center
The Moreau Center, according to its mission statement, “helps develop skills, knowledge, and habits to serve the world through hope, compassion and solidarity. Rooted in Catholic social teaching, we provide direct service opportunities, leadership development, reflection and social analysis. We aim to make God known, loved and served by caring for our neighbors, building community and working for the common good.”  The Moreau Center is named in honor of Rev. Basil Moreau, C.S.C., founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross.