UIndy students volunteer their time to demonstrate being a good neighbor
The line of people and the aroma of stews stretched from the lobby of Martin Hall to the outskirts of campus on Wednesday, Dec. 8. Southeast Community Services hosted the “Soup Kidchen” event, which has been a long-time partner with the University of Indianapolis community service programs.
Southeast Community Services hosts a variety of programs that seek to improve the lives of citizens in the southeast side of Indianapolis by striving to be good neighbors. These include homeless prevention classes and youth programs among other efforts. According to the organizations Web site at www.southeastcommunityservices.org, since its inception in 1972, Southeast Community Services goal has been to, “work together to serve, strengthen and support our neighbors in southeast Indianapolis.”
The youth program at Southeast Community Services, which partners with Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) 31 and 114, organized the “Soup Kidchen.”
University of Indianapolis student volunteers help the children who attend IPS 31 and 114 with homework and stress to children the importance of gaining a college education.
“I enjoy seeing the children grow each and everyday,” said Tiffany Boyd, head coordinator of Southeast Community Services youth program.
The youth program mainly serves children in low-income families, which can make it difficult for the children to obtain nutritious meals. The program also teaches the value of independence and helps to build strong foundations on which the children can learn to become self-sufficient.
The “Soup Kidchen” was a fundraising event to benefit Southeast Community Services.
Occupational therapy freshman Chelsea Domiano who volunteers with Southeast Community Services said that working with children is her passion and being involved has reassured her choice of a future career.
The youth program has addressed challenges in the past by educating children about food nutrition, and created the “Soup Kidchen” event to increase awareness and proper food education.
Administrative Assistant Roberta Thompson, who also helped organize the event said, “The ‘Soup Kidchen’ was marvelous, all the work I put in was worth every minute to help children in need.”
A variety of hot soups and stews were offered for $5, along with soft drinks and snacks provided by the nursing faculty.
A tutoring service for the youth program is offered Monday through Friday 4- 6 p.m. at the Southeast location at 901 Shelby St. This service serves children from fifth through 12th grade.
Southeast Community Services also offers programs for senior citizens with low-to-no income. Social activities, a senior dance and a night out to Beef and Boards are a few examples of events offered to seniors. The program offers charities such as long-term case management services such as food stamps, Medicare and health care.
According to Southeast Community Services Web site, by helping citizens lead self-sufficient, fulfilling lives. The organization’s hope is to spread the word and encourage all of Indianapolis to participate and fulfill the civic duty of being a good neighbor.
