Give Back to the Community through Day of Service

Seattle University’s Day of Service is coming up on Saturday, April 13. There will be numerous sites where the Redhawk community can live out our mission of serving others and giving back to the communities we call home.

One of those sites is Cougar Mountain Zoo in Issaquah, sponsored by the Women of SU alumni chapter for the second year in a row. Women of SU Service Chair Ellen Montanana, ’17, is excited to work with a new group of volunteers to help create a better environment for the animals and visitors.

“Day of Service is one of my favorite events because it is a chance for Redhawks from all different alumni and student groups to come together to help make our community a better place,” Montanana says.

Volunteers at the zoo may be tasked with a number of different activities to help clean up areas around the animals’ exhibits and improve the experience of visitors. Depending on weather, these tasks may include weeding, raking around the exhibits, picking up debris and assisting with landscaping. With many ways to contribute, volunteers of all interests and abilities are welcome.

“I think the best part of volunteering with Cougar Mountain Zoo is seeing all the different animals,” Montanana says. “Last year, the zoo staff did an exceptional job in teaching us about the different animals at the zoo and all the ongoing conservation efforts. This is a great learning experience for all volunteers and is proof that learning doesn't stop when you leave school!”

Last year's group of volunteers also had the opportunity to go behind the scenes to the “Tiger Tunnel” and see Taj the Tiger up close and personal. Montanana is looking forward to volunteering again and making new memories this year.

Montanana fully realizes the benefits that volunteering offers. “It brings me a lot of joy and a sense of accomplishment to give back to my community,” she says. “And it’s allowed me to make some really great friends and connections along the way.”

There are many ways to give back through Day of Service, including serving food to community members in need at Recovery Café or sorting donations for women and families experiencing homelessness at Mary’s Place. And Day of Service isn’t limited to the Seattle area. Redhawks across the country can participate at service sites in Portland, San Francisco, and Dickson, Tennessee. Check out our 10-plus service sites to find the opportunity that is right for you.