In a remarkable display of compassion and community spirit, Grand Canyon University (GCU) students and staff recently embarked on a transformative Week of Service, honoring the university's 75th anniversary. Through a partnership with CityServe, volunteers dedicated their time and resources to uplift families in need, providing essential items and hands-on assistance that left a lasting impact.

Answering the Call to Serve

Bedding the Needy, Restoring Dignity

Volunteers from GCU joined forces with the nonprofit organization Sleep in Heavenly Peace, dedicated to ensuring every child has a comfortable place to rest. Together, they loaded vehicles with bed frames, mattresses, and toolkits, then ventured into the community to build single and bunk beds in the homes of families in need. This initiative not only provided essential sleeping accommodations but also restored a sense of dignity and self-worth for the recipients. "These children will remember the day strangers came in and built them a bed," shared Phoenix chapter President Joe Genovise. "Kids need a bed for a good night's sleep, but for self-esteem, too."

Nourishing Families, Uplifting Spirits

As part of the Week of Service, GCU students and staff also organized a food distribution drive, welcoming hundreds of cars to the university's CityServe parking lot. Volunteers eagerly greeted each vehicle, loading their trunks with 25-pound boxes of canned goods, perishable items, and 15-pound boxes of toiletries and hygiene necessities. "It was wonderful meeting families and having conversations with them," said senior Taylor Sturtevant. "They seemed so happy with big smiles, and it warmed my heart." The act of providing these essential supplies not only nourished the bodies of the recipients but also uplifted their spirits, reminding them of the compassion and support within their community.

Restoring and Reorganizing for a Brighter Future

While some volunteers were out in the community, others gathered within the GCU CityServe warehouse, refurbishing computers and reorganizing a vast array of donated items. From kitchenware and appliances to furniture and home decor, the warehouse was a treasure trove of resources waiting to be distributed to families in need. "As Christians, pouring into others and helping out the community is our responsibility on earth," said freshman Keira White, who spent the day organizing clothes and packing boxes with the nonprofit Callahan Care. Through their tireless efforts, the volunteers ensured that these essential items would find their way to those who needed them most, empowering families to build a brighter future.

Embodying the Spirit of Service

Throughout the day, students and staff from GCU immersed themselves in various humanitarian efforts, embodying the university's mission to serve others in ways that promote human flourishing. "You can talk the talk and say, 'Hey we are people who want to give back to the community,' but the biggest way to bring people to Christ is to show them the love Christ has for all of us," said GCU graduate Connor Froysland, founder of the nonprofit Callahan Care. The volunteers' dedication and compassion were a testament to the university's commitment to being the "hands and feet of Jesus Christ," as described by GCU CityServe Director Nathan Cooper.The GCU Week of Service was a powerful demonstration of the university's unwavering dedication to its community and the transformative impact that can be achieved when individuals come together to uplift those in need. Through their tireless efforts, the volunteers not only provided essential resources but also instilled a sense of hope, dignity, and belonging in the lives of the families they served.