During Welcome Week, a group of 40 Hope International University students volunteered to serve at Pacific Drive Elementary School in Fullerton. The event, entitled “Give Hope,” was a part of HIU’s Fall New Student Orientation, which welcomed new and returning students after over a year of virtual schooling due to COVID-19. HIU students read books, played games, and enjoyed recess with three different 2nd grade classes. 

Pacific Drive’s Principal, Kelly Castillo, was extremely grateful to have HIU students back after the COVID interruption. “I am looking forward to many opportunities in the future for Hope to come support and encourage our students,” she said, reporting that her elementary kids were excited to have college students come and spend time with them. 

This outreach was designed for HIU students to bond with their classmates and kick off the new school year with an opportunity to practice servant leadership. Director of Campus Ministries, Joey Ross, stated, “It was so great to watch our students interacting with the school children. Many who participated in Give Hope reported that they are looking forward to more opportunities like this throughout the school year.”