February 2022

Welcome From Arielys Liriano Trejo '21 

In a world filled with woes, it‘s the duty of individuals to contribute to improving society through active citizenship. For me, volunteering is a means to make my community flourish and learn about the world through the perspective of those from different walks of life.

My first gateway into helping others was through small volunteer roles in elementary and middle school where extracurriculars served to organize activities like Walks Against Hunger. Learning about the reasons behind service made me realize the impact one volunteer can have. High school became the place where I truly discovered my love of helping others and knew that I wanted to make volunteering a part of my life. Thereby, stepping onto the SNHU campus I knew I wanted to be as involved in my campus and the surrounding community as I could be.

The Chandler Center, where students are presented with opportunities to engage in social action, has become my center point on campus. As a service coordinator, I learned how to equip individuals with the knowledge of the communities and organizations they served. From organizing events to hand-sewing bears for children and food collection for those experiencing homelessness, being involved in the community felt like a way to appreciate the small things in life.

At SNHU, we’re all learners. When one steps into a new volunteer role, that can come with a level of nerves going into the unknown. However, I’ve always found that by leaning into discomfort one can find a new experience and perspective on life. For instance, as a graduate student in France I was cautious to volunteer as a member of the asylum aid team that works with refugees. I wanted to do my best in being of use to people, but was weary of the legal procedure and language barriers. Once I met the people who would benefit from my services and the supportive organization team, I knew I didn’t have to be worried.

I encourage everyone to take a chance in digging a little deeper to understand local community needs and becoming involved in the act of service.

Warmest regards, 
Arielys Liriano Trejo '21 
GDS Site Leader | SNHU Volunteer

Global Days of Service | March–April 2022 | #ServeWithSNHU
Spring of 2022 will mark our seventh annual Global Days of Service (GDS), a two-month-long initiative that brings Penmen together from across the globe to make a difference in their local communities. Get involved in any of the following ways:

1. Register and serve at an official GDS project happening virtually or in your neighborhood.
2. Submit your idea to lead a project and add it to the 2022 map!
3. RSVP to the Global Days of Service 2022 Facebook event to stay in-the-know and connect with fellow Penmen do-gooders.

Want to lead a project this year, but not sure where to start? Watch this recording of a recent Global Days of Service - Information Session, where we discussed the many ways to get involved, how to lead a project and shared some past successes to inspire 2022 possibilities.

Active Citizen Network (ACN)
Have you made community service an integral part of your SNHU experiences, and continue to dedicate time to improving your community and the world around you? If so, we invite you to apply to the ACN: a civic society of SNHU alumni and graduating seniors who continue to commit themselves to being active and involved citizens. You’ll be able to learn from, network with and continue to grow within the SNHU community, resulting in your ability to make a greater and stronger impact in the communities in which you work and play. 
 
If you’re interested in joining, we encourage you to apply and help us build our network! Applications are due by April 1. Should you have questions, please email the associate director of The Chandler Center, Kelley Hobbs.

Virtual Mock Interviews — Volunteers Needed!
Join us for virtual mock interviews this spring! These interviews allow campus-based students to connect with alumni and/or employer partners to practice interviewing skills. We’re asking volunteers for a minimum two-hour time commitment for this event, but you’re welcome to sign up for multiple sessions:

• Wednesday, March 16 | 9 am–5 pm ET
• Tuesday, March 22 | 9 am–5 pm ET
• Thursday, March 24 | 9 am–5 pm ET

Learn more or sign up now to volunteer!


February Volunteer Honoree: Joie Gibson '15 '18G
Meet Joie – an enthusiastic big-hearted SNHU volunteer. One of the things she loves most about supporting the community is the opportunity to connect with other Penmen, no matter how near or far you are. Learn even more about Joie and her enthusiasm for helping others.

Update Your Volunteer Interests
Did you know you can add or change your volunteer interests at any time? Tell us what types of activities you're passionate about.

“Find the good. It's all around you. Find it, showcase it and you'll start believing in it.” — Jesse Owens 

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