Acts of Service

"Performing this act of service gave me a strong sense of purpose, connection, and fulfillment. Giving my time to others reminded me how much empathy and presence matter in meaningful work — and that even small actions can make a real difference in a community. This experience helped me embody the NLU spirit by reinforcing values of service, social responsibility, and compassion. It encouraged me to step outside of myself, engage authentically, and apply what I am learning in settings that promote dignity and collective well-being."

“Serving our community reflects the spirit of NLU because it represents who we are at our core: educators, helpers, and advocates committed to impacting lives beyond the classroom. NLU was founded on the belief that education and service can transform lives, and that we have a responsibility to uplift the communities around us. By giving our time, creativity, and care, we embody NLU’s mission of compassion, equity, and service. For our service project, we will be creating handmade cards, bookmarks, and bracelets for the children and families at Lurie Children’s Hospital. These heartfelt items provide comfort, encouragement, and moments of joy for young patients and their families during their hospital stays and outpatient visits.”

"As one of the founders of 'A Moment to Care', we organized and hosted two community events where we provided home-cooked meals to local families. It was incredibly heartwarming! We created our events to address the food insecurity that was intensified during the government shutdown this fall, and due to an overwhelming outpouring of support, our first event provided over 400 meals! Our second event provided more than 300 meals, along with over 300 toiletry and hygiene items for community members in need. Volunteering my time in the community allowed me to truly embody the NLU spirit by reminding others that they are part of a caring and supportive community where everyone belongs."

“Participating in the whistle packing event allowed me to embody the NLU spirit by engaging in service that is directly connected to equity, advocacy, and community care. As an immigrant myself, supporting the immigration community in this way was both meaningful and personal, reinforcing NLU’s commitment to serving diverse communities with empathy and action.”

"On November 1st, my friend Rachel and I volunteered with the Franciscans of the Eucharist of Chicago, a group of Catholic nuns who run a monthly food pantry serving over 300 people in the Humboldt Park area. We sorted clothing donations and loaded food into people's cars, connecting with many families along the way. It was humbling to see how needed this service was, with people lining up before we even arrived. As someone who researches food insecurity for work, volunteering reminded me of the profound power in simply walking alongside someone and offering help — a beautiful way to honor All Saints' Day."

"On October 4, 2025, I volunteered at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, proudly representing NLU as an alumna. NLU's commitment to service instilled in me a sense of social responsibility that has followed me long past graduation — from years of food bank volunteering in Illinois to now beginning a new chapter in Raleigh. In just three hours, fellow volunteers and I sorted and packed 21,000 pounds of zucchini and squash, providing an estimated 17,500 meals. I encourage fellow NLU alumni in the area to join me — our neighbors need us."

"I worked with the Bread Team at what I consider the best organized community service event in my 50 years of volunteering — and I have volunteered with the Marie Wilkerson Food Pantry, Hesed House, Feed My Starving Children, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Loaves and Fishes, and my Sorority for decades. NLU's partnership with this Food Dispensary was an excellent teamwork experience for the good of the community. Those in need received excellent food, and we packed over 1,000 boxes of assorted breads in just 2½ hours. Wow!"

"I had the privilege of volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository. I worked with the bread group, where together we repacked 10,128 pounds of bread—enough to provide servings for approximately 8,440 households. It was incredibly rewarding to know that our collective effort would help so many families in need. This experience truly reflects what it means to serve as an NLU ambassador—leading with compassion, integrity, and a sense of purpose. In these challenging times, it felt uplifting to be surrounded by like-minded individuals who shared the same commitment to making a positive difference. Volunteering not only allowed me to contribute to my community, but also reinforced the importance of service, collaboration, and empathy—values that are at the heart of NLU’s mission.”

“Volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository was one of those experiences that stays with you long after you leave. With so many families facing reduced SNAP benefits, and the holidays approaching, the need feels heavier than ever. Standing shoulder to shoulder with fellow NLU alumni, and so many others who showed up to help, reminded me how powerful community can be when we choose to show up for one another. I was genuinely moved by the stories, the shared purpose and the simple act of doing something that makes someone else’s day a little easier. I’m grateful for the opportunity and already looking forward to going back.”

"Volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository filled me with gratitude, purpose, and humility. Sorting and preparing food boxes made me deeply aware of how many families depend on these resources just to get through the week — and reminded me not to take my own stability for granted. More than volunteering, it felt like directly contributing to someone's peace of mind. This experience helped me embody the NLU spirit by pushing me to live out empathy, service, and leadership — because showing up and doing the work is what real leadership looks like."