Looking for PEACE

Looking for service learning opportunities? PEACE (people exploring active community experiences) is the central volunteer center here at the University of Tampa that collaborates with more than 300 local community agencies.  Students can partake in any of the upcoming events whether it be working with children or cleaning up trash along side the rode.

PEACE doesn’t only provide volunteer opportunities, but it also assists other student organizations on campus, finds work-study jobs for students and offers class presentations that spread the news on how you can get involved through volunteering.

An upcoming event that freshman Gwen Teutsh has planned is set for February 12. The event is called America’s Second Harvest. “ This is a non-profit organization,” said Teutsch. “ We will be collecting canned goods and distributing them to those who are in need.” Teutsh is a volunteer coordinator who is proud of what she does. Last weekend, her and 5 students went to a sweet organic farm where they harvested produce in preparation for the Saturday market. “ We did little things like trimming parsley”

Jordyn Clark is also one of PEACE organization’s dedicated volunteer coordinators. As a coordinator you’re responsibility is to make sure that every event planned runs smoothly. You have to make sure transportation is provided for your volunteers, people meet at a common ground and that everyone has a safe and enjoyable service experience. This past weekend, Clark took place in an event called Dimples playground where she had to entertain 3-5 year olds at a playground. “ A major event we have coming up that we want everyone to be aware of is coming up this Friday (Feb. 5). It’s called Locks of Love and we want everyone this Friday to wear red to represent woman’s heart disease.

From another perspective, Elizabeth Kowalski is a junior here at the University of Tampa where she is titled PEACE club representative for student government. Kowalski has been active in PEACE club for the past 1 ½ years now. “PEACE looks great for grad school applications,” said Kowalski. “Some of the events are fulfilling while others are not. I’m the type of person that likes to interact with people instead of doing mundane chores that no one else wants to do.”

If you are interested in PEACE, they want you to know that they are interested in you.  The PEACE office is located in the Vaughn Center RM 206 or you can reach them at (813) 253-6263 or by email peace@ut.edu.