Urban Action Days are when sophomore students learn about lives that are different from theirs, in their own community.

Sophomore students volunteer at one of eight nonprofits: Queen City Kitchen, the Seven Hills Neighborhood House, the Lord’s Gym Youth Resiliency Adventure, Wesley Chapel Mission, the Civic Garden of Greater Cincinnati, BLOC Ministries, ShealterHouse, and the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry.

“These agencies serve individuals and families dealing with food insecurity, poverty, addiction, and homelessness,” Megan Halverson, Badin service coordinator, said.

Elsie Hamersky, who was sorting clothes at St. Vincent DePaul, was grateful for the experience. “It made me grateful for the clothes and Thanksgiving meal I do have,” Hamersky said

Volunteers help the nonprofit they are grouped with, with anything the organization needs, some directly helping the population the organization serves. “Each experience will give a glimpse into the work that agencies do to address issues and make our community better for all,” Halverson said.

“We got to do things hands on, so that was really fun,” Anthony Jackman, who was volunteering at BLOC Ministries, said.

Addi Schultz and Natalie Wurzelbacher were serving at Queen City Kitchen.

“I got to see first hand what these kinds of kitchens and food pantries do and I got to meet and interact with the people [they] were serving,” Wurzelbacher said.

“Since my Urban Action Day, I have had more awareness and consideration towards people who are homeless/people who are in need of a meal” Schultz said. “It has made me appreciate what I have while also thinking about how I can help others.”