Stepping out and into the community
The USC Marshall Outreach and Volunteer Entrepreneurs (MOVE) hosted the sixth annual Community Service Day, an event that brought together students, alumni, staff and faculty to participate in work around the Los Angeles area on March 31.
Beginning early in the morning, the volunteers, who were shuttled in buses from Pasadena to El Segundo, visited various sites around the city, donating their time to a wide range of projects. Participating organizations included Heal the Bay, the Ronald McDonald House, the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank and Operation Gratitude, among others.
“I chose to be involved in Community Service Day because I loved the mission of having one day dedicated to inspiring the USC community to give back to the community,” said Wing Lee, co-president of MOVE.
Along with tours of the USC campus, volunteers rolled up their sleeves for several activities. At Franklin Canyon, members of USC Marshall upgraded the park by removing overgrown plants and clearing trails. At the office of L.A. Works, an organization that mobilizes the city’s philanthropic force, volunteers helped paint and spruce up the space for spring. Volunteers also planted trees with Treepeople in West Los Angeles.
“The best part of Community Service Day is the chance for volunteers from USC Marshall to connect with and have a positive impact in the community,” said Benita Yu, MOVE director of professional events. “Being involved in MOVE reinforces the idea that being a good leader is tied to being ethical and socially responsible.”
USC Marshall undergraduates prepare to spread goodwill on Community Service Day. (Photo/Dan Avila)