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Loyola students are encouraged to live out the University’s Jesuit mission by serving and uplifting their communities—through classes, student organizations, or independent volunteering. According to Bizzy Stephenson, community outreach program manager for the Office of Community Service and Action (CSA), this commitment extends far beyond the holiday season.
“Our Ignatian tradition calls us each to be a person for and with others,” Stephenson says. “At CSA, we encourage all Ramblers to reflect on how they can engage with their communities, whether here in Chicago or beyond.”
Ahead of the holiday season, CSA invites students to give back to Rogers Park and the greater Chicago area through the many volunteer and service opportunities available on campus and in the city. “If your home this holiday season is outside of Chicago,” Stephenson adds, “we hope you’ll look into a food pantry or soup kitchen near your neighborhood and bring your loved ones to give back while you’re on break.”
She emphasizes that service shouldn’t be limited to the winter months: “Most importantly, we hope that everyone’s service during the holidays inspires them to commit time throughout the year. You and your neighbors need each other all year round.”
St. Thomas of Canterbury Soup Kitchen
On Tuesdays and Fridays, Loyola students volunteer at St. Thomas of Canterbury Soup Kitchen. The group is open to all on a first-come, first-served basis. Students meet at Damen 232 at 3:30 p.m. and take CTA to Uptown. Visit their website for more information.
Labre Homeless Outreach
To partake in food preparation, distribution, and community building, join the Labre Homeless Outreach. Students meet at Baumhart Hall (WTC) on Thursdays at 4:30 p.m. Space is limited, so sign up through LUCommunity.
CELTS-recommended organizations
The Center for Engaged Learning, Teaching, & Scholarship (CELTS) offers a list of community partners that students can gain service learning opportunities with. Organizations in Rogers Park include Care for Real, GirlForward, and Howard Area Community Center. See the full list of community partners here.
Chicago Cares
Chicago Cares provides a variety of service opportunities dedicated to improving connection, empathy, and civic engagement. They work with both individual volunteers and groups to make the biggest impact possible across the city.
Service clubs
Loyola has a variety of student organizations focused on service, such as Food Recovery Network LUC, Heart for the Unhoused Chicago, Habitat for Humanity LUC, and Special Olympics LUC. Find ways to get involved on LUCommunity.
More resources
Students can email serve@luc.edu to set up a Service Advising Appointment or check out CSA’s Instagram for more information and events.
