Volunteer Efforts Available for Students During Spring Break

March 11, 2022

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – As spring break begins, Titans who are interested in volunteering during their time off can find opportunities in the campus community or at home.

The Office of Multifaith Engagement organizes a volunteer trip or “Alternative Break” during Illinois Wesleyan’s Spring Break each year. Although this year’s trip to Chicago was canceled due to the pandemic, University Chaplain Walter Wiltschek said students don’t have to look far to find other volunteer opportunities.

“We’re encouraging students to give some time to charitable and non-profit organizations either here in the Bloomington-Normal area or in their own communities,” said Wiltschek. “Giving back to others is a good reminder that it isn’t all about us. It also lives out the university’s commitment to social justice and global citizenship.” 

Wiltschek said an easy way to give back to the campus community would be to donate non-perishable items to the Titan Pantry, supporting students, faculty and staff in need. 

The Titan Pantry is located in Hansen Student Center in the lockers by the information desk. Items like canned food, snacks, quick meals and hygiene products may be donated in the drop off box by the information desk. The item of the month to donate for March is soup, preferably with a pull tab top. 

Wiltschek also mentioned several non-profit agencies in the Bloomington-Normal area that could benefit from volunteer services. Many organizations like the McLean County Parks & Recreation Department have group project opportunities that allow people to volunteer as a team.

“A local group called Faith in Action is currently in need of volunteer drivers to take older adults to their appointments and other errands; or Home Sweet Home Ministries uses volunteers for food distribution and other services, and also takes donations,” said Wiltschek. 

Additionally, senior nursing students are collecting items to donate to the Salvation Army in Peoria, Ill. After returning from spring break, Titans can drop off items to donate from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Monday, March 28 at The Dugout in the Memorial Center. Needed items include non-perishable foods, clothing, shoes, toiletries and housewares.

To find other volunteer opportunities near Illinois Wesleyan or anywhere in the country, visit www.volunteermatch.org . Anyone seeking more information about volunteering around campus can contact Walter Wiltshek at wwiltsch@iwu.edu .

By Julia Perez