Empowering Community Engagement:
Unveiling the Impact of Volunteerism at Glendale Community College
By Jake Davis, Cohort 2 Fellow Ambassador

On Friday, December 15th, 2023, nearly a hundred dedicated students from Glendale Community College (GCC) gathered to present the culmination of their efforts in Social Science 145 course on Introduction to Community Volunteerism (SOC S 145). This final assignment, Community Service Project - Poster Presentations, not only marked the end of a 16-week course, but also unveiled the profound impact of the College Corps program on its participants.

SOC S 145 course, led by the insightful Professor Michael Dulay, served as a compass guiding students through the intricacies of community volunteerism. Through engaging weekly lectures, Dulay addressed topics ranging from understanding diverse socio-economic backgrounds to appreciating the rich tapestry of cultures woven into the community. The course delved into the essence of volunteering, exploring the commitment it requires and emphasizing the importance of balancing altruism with personal well-being.

The 16-week journey was not without its challenges and surprises. One notable project involved stepping out of comfort zones and into the world of podcasting. For many students, including myself, this proved to be a novel experience, providing valuable lessons and expanding our communication skills.

The apex of the SOC S 145 course was the poster presentation, where each student showcased their volunteer site placement and reflected on the benefits of being a College Corps fellow. My placement at Daily High School in Glendale allowed me to contribute to the educational journey of struggling students. This experience holds special significance for me as I pursue my goal of becoming a teacher.

The presentation boards became windows into diverse volunteering experiences, demonstrating the collective impact of the College Corps program. From tree planting initiatives to art beautification projects, the posters told stories of commitment, growth, and community service.

The final presentations were evaluated by Professor Michael Dulay and Hoover Zariani, the program manager of the Multicultural & Community Engagement Center. As students, we stood before these judges, sharing our experiences and the value College Corps brings to both students and the community.

During this impactful day, I had the opportunity to connect with fellow presenters. Kevin M and Derez Y, stationed at GCC Food Market, which emphasizes the role of cultural understanding in enhancing their community service. Their journey into College Corps began with the recommendation of a previous fellow, showcasing the program's lasting impact.

Karine S, stationed at Casa Verdugo Library, shared her appreciation for the critical importance of communication, a valuable lesson learned through College Corps. Elena V, serving at St. Garabed Armenian Apostolic Church, highlighted the site's role in providing essential resources to those in need.

As the day concluded, it was evident that SOC S 145 and the College Corps program were more than academic endeavors. They were journeys of personal growth, cultural understanding, and community impact. The diverse stories shared through posters and conversations illustrated the profound effect of volunteering not only on individuals but on the fabric of the community.

As I reflect on this experience, I am grateful for the opportunity to be a GCC College Corps Fellow Ambassador and contribute to the positive changes happening in our community. The journey through SOC S 145 has not only enriched my understanding of volunteerism but has also ignited a passion to continue making a meaningful difference as I pursue my own path in education.

In the spirit of College Corps, let us carry forward the lessons learned, the connections made, and the commitment to building stronger, more vibrant communities.