On April 25, members of the Wilkes University student body are invited to participate in the universities largest community service event, The Big Event.

Sophomore pre-pharmacy student, and Student Government Executive Recording Secretary, Allie Grudeski, is also this years Big Event coordinator.

“The Big Event is the single largest community service project that takes place at Wilkes University every year, “ said Grudeski. “Around 300 students sign up to volunteer at one of the many volunteer sites that surround campus. The Big Event truly promotes unity between campus and community as students come together for one day to express their gratitude to the area we live in.”

This year, some of the service sites include cleaning up the Riverfront, cleaning up Bear Creek trails, working with local residents on household tasks, weeding at the Community Garden, packaging meals at the CEO Foodbank and more.

This year, Grudeski and her committee expect 400 students to get involved.

Grudeski explained that the Big Event is special to her for many reasons.

“The Big Event has truly become near and dear to my heart because I love community service. I attended HOBY (Hugh O’Brien Youth) Leadership Conference my sophomore year of high school. It changed my life completely and gave me a different perspective on life. I was so inspired to get out and make a difference,” said Grudeski. “Ever since I really try to give back to as many people in different ways as possible. I actually just recently received the President’s Volunteer Service Award presented by the Corporation for National and Community Service. I was so surprised and couldn’t believe what an honor it was.”

After the Big Event follows the Little Event, celebrating the students work.

“There is a big BBQ lunch with a small concert of student musicians which everyone really enjoys. This year we are excited that we could team up with Commuter Council, Programming Board, Off Campus Council, Student Development, and Badminton Club to host more than ever before,” Grudeski explained. “There will be tie-dying of t-shirts, Auntie-Anne’s pretzels, an ice cream truck, backyard games, Kan Jam, and a little surprise that will hopefully leave a“splash” on campus.”

Pre-registration ends April 21. Students are welcome the day of starting at 8 a.m. however they will not be able to work with preregistered teams.

Students with questions should contact Grudeski at [email protected].