19th annual service day Aug. 31

More than 300 Cornell College students, along with college faculty and staff, will perform community service at 21 sites around Eastern Iowa on Aug. 31 as part of the college’s 19th annual Service Day. The day, organized by the college’s Office of Civic Engagement, marks the end of New Student Orientation, where Cornell introduces its newest class to the campus and the region.

The day will begin with a talk on campus by Tim Wilson, the executive director of the Willis Dady Emergency Shelter in Cedar Rapids. He will discuss the importance of Cornell’s commitment to area agencies, many of whom are still impacted by the flood of 2008.  The estimated 1,000 volunteer hours taking place on Aug. 31 represents one of the largest days of service in Cornell’s history.

Volunteers will be helping at area homeless shelters, youth centers, arts organizations, community parks and gardens, and many other non-profits with a broad range of services.  Some of the organizations and sites that students, faculty, and staff will serve include the Willis Dady Emergency Shelter, Lake Macbride, Seeds for Seniors, Camp Courageous, the Catherine McAuley Center, Mount Vernon and Lisbon parks, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, and Foundation 2.