Azusa Pacific University offers many opportunities for students to engage with local community members, including community service through Local Engagement and Academic Service Learning programs which involve working with children. However, the Clearwater Carnival allowed APU students to serve a different population of APU’s neighboring city of Glendora. The carnival is a partnership between APU and Clearwater Senior Living. Carly Jackman ’27, a Local Engagement Intern in the Office of Service and Discipleship, volunteered at the carnival which is hosted for residents of Clearwater Senior Living and their families.
Activities at the carnival included games, pony rides, face painting, aerial performances, and listening to a live band. Some of the residents even put on a performance of their Zumba class routine. APU volunteers were in charge of setting up booths, running the games, serving food, and spending time with residents who didn’t have family in attendance. “It was such a fulfilling event,” Jackman said. “Volunteering opens up opportunities for students to help create a fun and engaging event for the community.”
Jackman believes that part of college is connecting with the local residents since
community engagement allows students to meet people of all ages and backgrounds.
“Getting involved in the community can help you learn about what your interests may
be through the connections and relationships you build.” The carnival was a huge success.
Residents enjoyed the food and games and were grateful for all of the volunteers.
APU’s partnership with Clearwater Senior Living highlights APU’s fifth principle of community engagement through diverse partnerships and intentional design for broad accessibility for all ages. Attendees ranged from toddlers and teenagers to the senior residents while the event was put together by high school and college volunteers along with Clearwater’s staff. Jackman said that the event was specifically created for all ages and was therefore enjoyable and accessible to a wide range of community members.
Through her time volunteering, Jackman was able to live out her faith. “We are called to love and serve others, and the Clearwater Carnival created that opportunity for me,” she said. “I got to spend the day with one of the residents and take care of her needs such as pushing her wheelchair and getting her food and drinks, but I also had the chance to sit and talk with her about her life stories.” Jackman encourages all APU students to get involved with Local Engagement opportunities to build community among students and within the broader community. “It was such a fulfilling experience,” she said. “You get the chance to be a part of something bigger than yourself.”