Residents of Lacombe and the surrounding area found that they could count on a little extra help last week thanks to the students of Burman University.
The event took place throughout the day with students travelling out into Lacombe and the surrounding area to participate in community service projects.
“I think it’s important to have the focus off of ourselves, I guess. I think it’s very beneficial to us because in serving we learn to be servants, you know. And I think that’s a very important part of having people who love each other and who serve each other lovingly,” said event organizer Jessica Richter.
Students were given the option of 27 different service projects in and around the City.
They could participate in anything from highway cleanup to mural painting. Projects also included residential service, hanging Christmas lights and painting City dumpsters.
“It was wonderful. A really great afternoon,” said Maureen Mackenzie, who works for the City of Lacombe. This is the second year that Burman has worked directly with the City for the project, although it is the seventh year that they have held the event.
“I couldn’t give you final numbers but before, signed up, we had 140 signed up,” Richter said, adding that on the day of the project anywhere from 130 to 140 students showed up, as well as a number of faculty and staff bringing the total to around 180 people out in service to the cause.
According to Mackenzie, the students were, “Wonderful students to work with,” she said.
She added that the City hopes to participate in the project again next year.
“Today we’re sending different groups around the community and here we’re actually painting garbage cans and bringing a little bit life and vibes to the City corners,” said Ben Amoah, a second-year student at the University.
“I think it helps us recognize that we’re not the only thing that exists in the City of Lacombe and that we have to look out for the people around us and just be impactful to the people around us,” he added.
Richter said she believes serving the community is good for the self.
“I think it’s also deeply beneficial, even if we’re talking about just for ourselves. I think it’s something that makes us feel good as people, to serve others as well. So I think it’s a win-win situation both ways.”
zcormier@lacombeexpress.com