The importance of time is valued at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC). There is no greater gift than the gift of time to those who appreciate it. For years, SMWC has been teaching students the importance of giving back to the community through volunteering. In any event of volunteering, every moment counts.
“Volunteering is really just about helping where you’re needed. It’s not hard to look around and see problems in our community, country or world. And it’s easy to complain and just wait for someone else to do something about it. When a situation seems overwhelming, remember that even small actions can chip away at a big challenge,” said Kymberli Payonk ’86, volunteer coordinator at SMWC.
Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, one of SMWC’s foundresses, once said, “We cannot do our work if we all stay in the nest.” This serves true to what SMWC values in its students and community. Along with campus events like Foundation Day, Woods Giving Day and Earth Day celebrations, The Woods family also takes part in Providence food pantry, local food pantries, devoting time to campus clean up days and local clean up events like the Wabashiki clean up event. Payonk explained that it’s a simple process to determine how you want to volunteer your time.
“Look at the root of a problem to know where to begin. Worried about crime or drug use in your community? Mentor a child so they have a role model and choose a better path in life. Worried about our environment? Get involved in recycling or litter clean-up or planting trees. Or follow your passion and volunteer at a museum, animal shelter or community garden. Everyone can do a little something and it all adds up to making a difference.”
While there are various opportunities for current students to volunteer on campus, there are also opportunities for alumni through The Woods. Opportunities include campus clean-up days, becoming a class agent or applying to join the Alumni Association Board of Directors.