Politicians, local advocacy leaders, notable community members- Last Friday, October 24, 2014, I had the opportunity to be in the presence of these impressive individuals at the Annual Ibero Luncheon. The Ibero-American Action League, Inc. has been incorporated into the Rochester community for more than forty years, developing the growth of Hispanics though initiatives and programs. The agency serves not only the Rochester Hispanic population, but the greater Rochester community. Recently, I became interested in serving the organization, and have just started to do so.
I had the task of being a volunteer for the annual luncheon, welcoming almost every individual to the event, and directing them to registration. More than 400 people attended the huge annual occasion! Not only were political candidates present but community leaders as well. The woman whom I volunteered under was very supportive and helpful in providing guidance of my responsibilities. I appreciated the overall welcoming environment of those who both attended and ran the event. The program of the luncheon itself included a keynote speaker from Syracuse University, those who have earned awards for their work and affiliation with Ibero, as well as a wonderful short performance promoting the upcoming Rochester production of West Side Story (it was beautiful!).
It was a privilege to be in the presence of so many professionals that supported the organization and its causes. This event was my first official appearance volunteering with the organization. Having the chance to help in such a small way enabled me to learn more about the organization. Going forward I can only hope to learn even more about the Ibero and their work within the Rochester community.
Over the years at Nazareth College I have had the opportunity to volunteer with organizations all over the greater Rochester Area, as well as around the world. With Nazareth being so involved communities, it has become very natural to be a very civically engaged member, of not only this campus, but beyond. Personally, I went out of my way to contact Ibero because I was very interested in what services they offered to the community. Professionally, I would like to work in an organization that provides services much like Ibero does. I believe that my professional goals have developed in direct correlation to my service experiences here at Nazareth. As a senior, I can look back and realize that I enjoy helping my community, and a career to further my civic engagement is what I aim to do.
Nazareth has tons of opportunities for students to get involved with community service like our yoga empowerment program, working with college-aged students with developmental, disabilities alternative spring break trips.