EUGENE, Ore. – Bushnell University celebrated the 16th annual Embrace the Community (ETC) Day last week, drawing a record number of over 375 students, faculty, and staff who came together to volunteer at more than 20 sites across Eugene and Springfield. Originally started by a Bushnell student, this long-standing tradition continues to reflect the university’s commitment to community engagement and service as integral components of its educational mission.
Rev. Troy Dean, M.A., Campus Pastor and Assistant Professor, played a significant role in bringing ETC Day to life and ensuring its success. Reflecting on the day and its connection to this year’s chapel theme of “Brighter,” he shared, “Our faith calls us to be good neighbors. One of those ways is to support, serve, and invest in the good work already being done in our community by our phenomenal non-profits and faith-based organizations.”
In West Eugene, volunteers completed several impactful projects. At the Greenhill Humane Society, students cared for animals and maintained the facilities, while at Everyone Village, a transitional housing community, volunteers worked with residents to improve shared spaces by planting gardens and assisting staff with preparing homes. Bushnell volunteers also supported the Eugene Mission by painting and renovating common areas, creating a respectful and inviting environment for the mission’s guests.
Downtown Eugene saw its share of volunteer support as well. At ShelterCare, volunteers assisted with facility upkeep and administrative tasks, supporting an organization that provides housing and aid for individuals struggling with homelessness and mental health challenges. Volunteers also contributed to the upkeep of the historic Sheldon McMurphey House by helping with landscaping and preservation efforts, preserving a significant local landmark for future generations.
In Springfield, volunteers helped harvest crops and prepare produce at the Springfield Youth Farm, a Food for Lane County location, to support local food efforts. Their work helped provide fresh, healthy food to community members in need. Additionally, volunteers partnered with Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA) to offer support to children in the foster care system and help create a positive impact in their lives.
Arranging these volunteer opportunities is a sizeable undertaking. Matt Geronimo, M.A., Coordinator for Campus Ministry at Bushnell, was instrumental in ensuring a successful ETC Day, organizing volunteer opportunities with each organization. “I am deeply grateful for partnership with the many organizations in our community that are doing good work in meeting needs and that they are willing to invest in our students.”
Embrace the Community Day remains a highlight of the fall semester, uniting students, faculty, and the local communities of Eugene and Springfield. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that collective efforts can have in bringing about lasting change.
To view all the photos from the day, visit our university photo album.