Jan. 29, 2013

PHILADELPHIA - Developing as men and women for others is a key element of the athletic experience at Saint Joseph's University. This year more than 250 student-athletes and coaches gave back to the local Philadelphia-area community by participating in the SJU athletic department's annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service on Monday, January 21.

"Every year, we ask the student-athletes to commit to one day together to be that volume, that force for good and to make a difference in our community," states SJU Athletic Director Don DiJulia.

Jointly coordinated by the SJU Athletic Department, Government and Community Relations and Campus Ministry, this year the Hawks joined fellow community volunteers at nine service sites throughout the area, including the Arc of Philadelphia/PDDC, Beeber Elementary, Gompers Elementary, Ivy Ridge Trail, Mercy Hospice, Saunders House, Simpson House, St. Rose of Lima and Ray of Hope. Among the activities the volunteers participated in were indoor/outdoor cleanups, painting, and building shelves.

"It is very import to participate in service activities because it allows us to give back to the community," remarked Tommy Gates, a senior on the men's tennis team, who helped paint the gymnasium at Gompers Elementary. "We are very fortunate to be able to attend St. Joe's, so it is important to give back to those who are not as fortunate as we are."

The day began with all student-athletes gathering in the SJU Athletic Center and concluded with volunteers being recognized during the annual Martin Luther King Day Celebration in Hagan Arena, as well as time for reflection.

"It's part of the reason I went to a Jesuit school, I get values out of it," added Jamal Anderson, a senior on the men's rowing team. "I am doing more than what's asked of me."

In addition to the Martin Luther King Day of Service, SJU student-athletes combine to contribute thousands of volunteer hours each year, impacting the lives of countless individuals throughout Philadelphia.