The Service on Saturday program is calling all volunteers to this semester's final service opportunity Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Office of Student Activities started SOS last spring, and there have already been two service projects this year. The program targets established community agencies and businesses, then provides student volunteers for a few hours on a Saturday morning.
"There were over 200 students on the first one, and about 50 on the one we had in February -- but it was really cold," said Amy Hopper, a graduate student in charge of the program.
Only 15 students have signed up so far for Saturday's project, but Hopper said she is confident there will be a large turn out.
"A lot of students wait till the last minute," she said. "We have a lot of walk-ups Saturday morning."
Hopper said this year's volunteer sites include Methodist Hospice Care, MIFA, MaDonna Living and Learning Center, Youth Villages and the Memphis Botanic Gardens. The exact service students perform can be direct or indirect depending on the site. However, the students who get involved don't seem to be picky.
"I helped decorate a stage for a fashion show with MIFA, and I helped build and paint houses with Habitat for Humanity," said Matrika Hale, a junior majoring in management information systems.
Hale said she got involved simply because she enjoys giving back to the community. She said she thinks more students should get involved.
"You can't give too much help to those in need," she said. "Plus it leaves you with a good feeling on the inside."
In addition to two free meals, transportation will also be provided. Interested students can sign up at the Student Activities office, UC 425, or just show up on the second floor of the UC Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m.
