Serve for Good, an initiative of the Intercultural Center, awards students with mini-grants, providing them with the opportunity to support the local Atlanta community by leading a service project.
Last year’s four projects had a meaningful impact on the students who participated, including听Yulianna Aceves ’26, who works in the Intercultural Center and assists student leaders in planning and executing their projects.
“As someone already engaged in community work, I was genuinely impressed by the students’ initiative and dedication to carrying out these service projects,” said the sociology major. “This experience gave them the opportunity to actively engage with pressing community issues, strengthening both their awareness and sense of responsibility.”
This year, ten service projects were selected for Serve for Good, each with a different focus, but all with the intention of giving back to the community:
The Sandwich Project led by Jacky Antunez, Brigith Gonzalez and Matheus de Araujo
Students will partner with the non-profit organization to assemble sandwiches for those facing food insecurity in the Metro Atlanta area. The project will foster leadership and compassion among Oglethorpe students who participate.
Teddy Bear Clinic led by Catherine Cuya, Evelyn Patino Cervantes and Lea Campos-Guzman
This service project focuses on teaching elementary school students basic first aid skills through interactive demonstrations on plush toys. The goal is to expose young children to healthcare procedures and reduce anxiety surrounding doctor visits, while building confidence in caring for themselves and others.
Food Drive led by Adir Ali Yerima, Jacky Antunez and Zig Nganga
Partnering with , students will collect non-perishable food items to support refugee families in Georgia facing food insecurity. Through a coordinated campus-wide effort, this project aims to strengthen community solidarity with refugees who are navigating significant hardship.
Community Care Kits for Immigrant Families听led by OU Monarchs
Students will partner with the non-profit organization to purchase and assemble hygiene care packages for immigrant families. The project will promote civic engagement and social responsibility among participating Oglethorpe students.
Reading with K-5 Students led by the Petrel Page Turners
The Petrel Page Turners will take their love for reading off campus by reading engaging books and leading activities with elementary-aged children. The project aims to instill a love of reading in students and demonstrate that reading is both important and enjoyable.
Food Pantry led by Jacky Hillard and Haromonee Anderson
Students will partner with the local organization in Tucker, Georgia, to support its food pantry by donating food, restocking shelves, and organizing supplies. The project will strengthen connections between Oglethorpe students and the needs of surrounding non-profits while encouraging meaningful community engagement.
Senior Citizen Zumba led by Nzinga Collins-Dabo, Anaya Jackson, Brigith Gonzalez, Garoudine Occelant, Matheus de Araujo, Shanelle Keru, Tunmise Salako and Winnstolyn Cephas
Oglethorpe students will partner with local high schoolers and the to offer an engaging Zumba class for senior citizens in Brookhaven’s Latino community. The project aims to bolster intergenerational bonds and promote physical activity.
Drive for Good led by Storm Surge
In collaboration with , Oglethorpe’s Storm Surge club will deliver nutritious meals directly to senior citizens who face mobility or resource limitations. The project aims to promote dignity, independence and consistent access to essential nourishment within the Atlanta community.
Destined for Greatness Mentorship led by Kaelyn McKinley, Kadence Hart and Mergenie Fleurimond
This service project partners with the to provide underserved girls with meaningful exposure to college life through a mentorship experience. By connecting each participant with a college mentor who reflects her background and aspirations, the initiative aims to build confidence and inspire long-term academic and career ambitions.
HoPe Mentorship听led by Kathleen Reyes, Sal Ramirez, Ashley Reyes, Juan Godoy, Jireth Caballero and Brigith Gonzalez
Students will partner with local high school chapters of the to offer mentorship and college-readiness guidance to those who share similar backgrounds. This initiative aims to strengthen representation, build confidence and inspire students to pursue higher education.
All projects will be completed by April 2026, allowing students to present their work at the Liberal Arts and Sciences Symposium. Several of the projects are also laying the foundation for bringing more civic engagement opportunities to campus by partnering with local non-profits.
“Serve For Good has been a big part in bridging the gap between students and service at Oglethorpe,” said Aceves. “It provides a strong foundation for students to not only engage in meaningful community service but also develop critical leadership skills for their future careers. These collaborations build lasting relationships between Oglethorpe and the local community, uniting people with a shared commitment to service and advocacy.”
