By Derrick Hornbaker ’23, guest writer
People will volunteer for any number of reasons. Some do it because they have to. Others might do it because it looks good on a resumé. For Joseph Polhill, however, there’s no other reason than a desire to help.
“Volunteer work at LVC was actually a big part of why I came here in the first place,” he explained.
Polhill saw LVC’s service programs as a glowing opportunity to help those in need.
“I have always felt very passionate about giving back to the community around me, as I feel that it is not only the right thing to do but somewhat of a responsibility as a member of the global community to give back.”
Polhill started his first semester at LVC online during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, an obstacle that he says made it significantly more difficult to do service. He began serving remotely during his second semester through Jen Liedtka’s IME service class, which would take him on a virtual service-learning trip the week after classes ended for the semester.
“My first on-campus experience as an LVC student was that service trip, and I could not possibly be happier for it.”
LVC offers a vast array of charitable causes one can devote their time to, and Polhill is clearly taking full advantage of his options. His primary work is in the Nights of Service, which can encompass any number of different activities and causes.
He also participates in virtual service-learning trips held with Amizade. These service trips allow participants to connect with a community from far off, learning about their culture and various service-related institutions in their areas.
Polhill’s infectious passion for his service work is hard to ignore. While others might avoid the work unless required to participate, Polhill has a legitimate love for what he does that is all too rare today. He is so incredibly dedicated to his work, that even before the end of his sophomore year, Liedtka has told him he has already passed his 100 required hours of service. The good news is he has no plans of stopping.