Sixteen years ago Labor of Love was introduced as a way to give Seton Hill University (SHU) students a chance to give back and get involved in area organizations and services.
By: Giannina Gonzalez
Contributor
Sixteen years ago Labor of Love was introduced as a way to give Seton Hill University (SHU) students a chance to give back and get involved in area organizations and services.
On Sept. 11 about 100 members of the SHU community came together to give back to the community. Groups went out to 13 different sites on and off the campus. Events ranged from gardening at Caritas Christi to picking up trash along the highway.
Labor of Love is coordinated by Campus Ministries. This was the first year organizing the event for Sister of Charity Maureen O’Brien, director of Campus Ministries.
“There was a lot of very positive feedback from the adults in charge and the students who all had a great sense of satisfaction,” said Sister O’Brien.
Freshman Jackie Yanchuck went off campus to the Welcome Home Shelter, a shelter helps the homeless. Yanchuck’s group assisted in cleaning and organizing the shelter.
“I did not realize how lucky I was to have so many basic things. I am really grateful that I was able to help. I know that I would want someone to help me if I was in such a situation,” said Yanchuck.
The success of the event has inspired ideas for future service trips. Some ideas include an event that would give athletes an opportunity to serve in the community.
Dr. Joseph Coelho assisted with Labor of Love as well. He went to St. Vincent De Paul with his wife. “We drove an hour to Seton Hill to volunteer. It was a great opportunity to meet students. It was a really positive event to help the community.”
Labor of Love Locations
St. Emma Monastery
YMCA
Redstone Highlands
Caritas Christi
St. Vincent De Paul Store
Christian Laymen
Greater Parkview Church
Hunger Garden
Juniper Village
Welcome Home Shelter
Seton Hill Grotto
Adopt-a-Highway
Powdermill Nature Reserve