March 28, 2024

UMW’s Into the Streets Service Project Helps Local Community

More than 70 University of Mary Washington students shared their volunteer spirit with the Fredericksburg area community on Saturday, Sept. 24, for Into the Streets. The autumn tradition is hosted by UMW’s Community Outreach and Resources (COAR), which supports and promotes community engagement, volunteerism and service among students.

“For a few hours on a Saturday, they have a chance to get out of their residence hall room and make a positive difference,” said Center for Community Engagement Director Sarah Dewees. “Into the Streets is a great way for UMW students to volunteer with nonprofit organizations that serve Fredericksburg and learn more about our community.”

Groups big and small set out to do lawn and garden work – planting, weeding, harvesting, mulching, shrub-trimming – for the Fredericksburg Area Museum, St. Mary’s Church, Lafayette Upper Elementary School, Downtown Greens and Tree Fredericksburg. They also cleaned up trash throughout the city and along the Rappahannock River. In total, the project helped 12 organizations and resulted in 216 service hours.

“It’s a great way to get involved with the City of Fredericksburg and give back to the community we call home during the school year,” said Nathan Francis, a junior and COAR staff member who’s majoring in political science and philosophy. Read more.