Student Leaders Seek Community Partners Ahead of BIG Event in March

Student Leaders Seek Community Partners Ahead of BIG Event in March

University of Toledo student leaders are calling on local organizations and residents to register as volunteer sites ahead of the largest single-day service event at UToledo.

More than 500 student volunteers are expected to fan out across the community for The BIG Event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 21. Since the annual student-run initiative launched on campus in 2001, it has seen hundreds of students pitch in each year at food pantries, community gardens and more.

"The BIG Event is about taking one day to say a huge 'thank you' to the community that supports us year-round," said Vanessa Heck, an exercise science senior and president of the 2026 BIG Event. "As students, we're excited to step off campus and work alongside community members to make a meaningful impact across the city."

Student organizers are currently seeking local organizations and individuals that need volunteer assistance with tasks such as:

• Pulling weeds, raking leaves and other landscaping chores;

• Painting and light maintenance;

• Organizing or stocking food pantries; and

• Other simple service projects based on an organization's needs.

Interested individuals or organizations can submit project details online. They can also contact student organizers at [email protected].