For my service hours during the fall 2018 semester, I participated in the Columbus Marathon water stop, the Hot Chocolate 5K, and the DSWS Day of Service.

• Columbus Marathon – (5 hours) we stood at a water stop to give water to runners and cheer them on as they got to our spot in the course. I found out about this opportunity through DSWS and it was beneficial working with my fellow scholars to build community, even in frigid temperatures. I helped these runners achieve their goals by giving them a boost of positivity and water as they ran for the finish. My volunteer work impacted the Columbus community, who gained tourism and an economic boost from hosting the race. As for myself, I learned that it takes sacrifice to help others and if you aren’t focused on yourself, you’ll have a more positive experience. A leader is selfless, and I learned about being selfless and not complaining through this service on a cold morning. Because of service learning I am better prepared to look beyond myself and help others without expecting anything in return.
• Hot Chocolate 5K – (6 hours) Similar to the marathon, we handed out water and energy drinks to the finishers of the race. Many of them were relieved to have us there to hand out the supplies when they were tired after finishing the race. Volunteering at this race also helped the Columbus economy and I was personally affected by the gratitude shown by the race participants. I learned that I can radiate positivity and a simple “congratulations” goes a long way. When I smiled, people usually smiled back and felt accomplished after their run. through these simple gestures, I learned that leadership can be done through the simple things, and leading by example and being positive are key traits for leadership success. Because of service learning I have found that one smile or gesture goes a long way.
  

  DSWS Day of Service

• DSWS Day of Service (5 hours) – Fellow Scholars and I spent the afternoon at the Dream Center in Columbus to help them get ready for a Thanksgiving dinner. We put together hygiene bags, cleaned tables and chairs, and distributed flyers around the neighborhood to advertise for the event. I felt immersed in the community through this service and I could see my impact after all of the work was done: everything was organized and the people in charge felt less stress and were grateful for our help. I learned that I need to be more grateful for the good things in my life, like never having to wonder if I’ll get to have a Thanksgiving with family. I saw myself being a leader in this activity because I was helping people who don’t have the same reality as I do around the holidays. Because of service learning I am appreciative and more inclined to help others who need it.
  

  Columbus Marathon

Hot Chocolate 5K