Serve Day leads over 600 students to help others across region

More than 600 Carson-Newman students gathered together for the University’s annual Serve Day. Despite rainy conditions, the Sept. 24 event led members of the C-N community to join students in service projects across four East Tennessee counties.

Carson-Newman’s Courtenay Folk says the event embodies the University’s heart for community engagement and Christian compassion.

“Serve Day reflects our mission of preparing educated citizens and worldwide servant-leaders,” said Folk who serves as director of C-N’s Center for Community Engagement. “We want to encourage students to use their gifts for the benefit of others and champion a legacy of selfless stewardship.”

From such organizations as Isaiah 117 House and First Love on Main, to Boys and Girls Club and Lakeway Habitat for Humanity, groups engaged in site projects in Jefferson, Hamblen, Knox and Sevier counties. The day also led to students packing over 11,800 meals for those in need.

“Through hands-on service, whether packing meals for local non-profits, reading with children, or supporting area ministries, participants became the hands and feet of Jesus to our neighbors,” said Folk.

“It was such a great experience,” said freshman Nate Ball of Morristown, who helped at Appalachian Ministries of the Smokies. “I served at AMOS where we helped move paint, carried boxes, and even built a shelf together. Working alongside some of the guys not only made the work go faster but also made it a lot of fun,” he said. “Already can’t wait for next year.”