Students make meaningful contributions to local nonprofits during Saturday of Service

During their time on campus, Case Western Reserve University students have plenty of opportunities to explore Cleveland. One of the most engaging and meaningful ways they can do so is through volunteer experiences. While there are options available throughout the year, the Center for Civic Engagement and Learning (CCEL) organizes two dedicated days of service each academic year to give students the chance to support local organizations.

The fall 2025 Saturday of Service was held in October, during which 145 students completed 16 projects. CCEL organized every aspect of the volunteer opportunities, including transportation and student leader guides. Volunteers selected the projects that fit their schedule and interests, with sites at Ohio and Erie Canalway and Towpath Trail, McGregor Home, Food Strong Learning Garden, EDWINS Second Chance Life Skills Center and more. 

Activities included food and clothing distribution, urban farm upkeep, supply organization, and even passing out candy at two trick-or-treat events for local children.

“Taking a break from studying to make a positive impact on community issues often helps students feel more grounded,” said Samantha Cocco, assistant director of CCEL. “Through these experiences, they can build new relationships, develop skills in leadership, empathy, and communication—and even explore potential career paths. Perhaps most importantly, community service can deepen students' understanding of their role as engaged and compassionate community members now and beyond their time at CWRU.”

Projects completed during Saturday of Service are smaller-scale tasks, but they still have an impact on local nonprofits by offering extra hands to complete work and allow organizations’ staff members to focus on other aspects of their missions.

Though Saturday of Service is designed to be a one-time commitment for students who may not otherwise be able to commit to consistent volunteer hours, some of the partner organizations report that students who volunteer at these events return.

For many students, the experiences are eye-opening introductions into the communities just beyond the boundaries of campus.

“As a result of this volunteering activity I am more aware of the struggles present in communities near my campus,” one student shared of their volunteer experience at the Food Strong Learning Garden. “On CWRU’s campus I am pretty secluded and don't experience many from the surrounding Cleveland community that experience food insecurity. Through my experience with Food Strong I have learned about what the organization does for families in need and how they sustainably aid the families.”

Want to contribute during the spring Saturday of Service? Join the CCEL CampusGroups page to get updates.