By Angelica Fraine ’23, staff writer
Impact, it’s a word with a big meaning, often thought of as a milestone-like marker in a person’s life; it’s the rippling after effects of an action that spreads so wide that it’s almost unforgettable.
However, large orders—like ways of making an impact—often come in various smaller packages, and for senior Lauren McKee, it’s through LVC’s community service opportunities.
Going into college, McKee was not entirely certain volunteering was an activity for her. She had her doubts until her freshman orientation service trip checking storm drains in Lebanon City.
“Walking around, talking to the people in my group, it was so much fun,” McKee said. “That was what really opened the door for me…I’ve done so much since then.”
Later in that year, McKee decided to join Gamma Sigma Sigma, the service sorority on campus, allowing her to continue giving back on a more regular basis.
A native of Palmyra, one of McKee’s favorite aspects of participating in service projects at a school so close to home means she is able to contribute to the well-being of her hometown directly.
“I can make those small touches around my community,” McKee said, “And a small touch can lead to an even bigger impact on someone’s life. Being able to help out my community is amazing to me.”
Even through the COVID-19 pandemic, when so many students were conducting their education from home, McKee still found ways to help serve others in one of our world’s most dire times of need. This past school year, LVC hosted a service event for students both on and off campus, inviting participants to create fleece blankets for donation. While McKee did not possess enough materials to make the full-sized blankets, it didn’t stop her from thinking outside the box and making scarves instead.
These garments were donated to centers like homeless shelters and doctor’s offices to help those who may not have access to winter necessities.
“It’s something that I’ve continued throughout the years now, and I think that’s kind of cool,” she said.
McKee plans to continue her service projects at LVC until graduation and hopes the takeaways she’s had can help better assist her in a future career.