Giving back to the community is a vital part of what we do. For our 15th annual Tigers Give Back Community Service Day

Giving back to the community is more than just an act of goodwill—it is a core value that defines who we are. As we mark the 15th anniversary of our Tigers Give Back Community Service Day, we pause not only to celebrate how far we’ve come but also to reaffirm our commitment to building stronger, more compassionate communities. What began as a modest initiative has grown into a powerful tradition that touches lives, uplifts neighborhoods, and ignites a lasting spirit of service across generations.

Fifteen years ago, the idea behind Tigers Give Back was simple yet profound: to dedicate a day each year to serve others and to inspire collective action for the greater good. Our founders believed that meaningful change begins at the grassroots level, and they envisioned a culture of service that would extend beyond our walls and into the heart of the community.

Since its inception, Tigers Give Back has mobilized thousands of volunteers, supported countless community projects, and provided resources to schools, shelters, parks, and nonprofits. It has become more than just a day on the calendar—it is a symbol of unity, empathy, and shared responsibility.

This year’s theme, “Rooted in Service, Growing Together,” speaks to both our history and our aspirations. As an organization, we have deep roots in the community. We are neighbors, educators, workers, students, and leaders who understand that sustainable growth happens when we come together with purpose.

On this special day, over 1,500 volunteers—from students and staff to alumni and local partners—joined forces across multiple project sites. From planting community gardens and revitalizing public spaces to organizing food drives and mentoring youth, the collective impact was both immediate and enduring.

Here’s a glimpse into some of the incredible efforts and projects from this year’s service day:

• Community Garden Restorations: Volunteers rolled up their sleeves at six community gardens, planting fresh vegetables, painting signs, and building benches. These gardens not only provide healthy food but also serve as safe gathering spaces for families and children.
• School Partnerships: Teams worked with five local schools to enhance their learning environments. Activities included mural painting, playground repairs, and the donation of more than 2,000 books and supplies.
• Senior Outreach: More than 200 volunteers visited senior living facilities to offer companionship, deliver care packages, and host intergenerational storytelling sessions. The smiles and heartfelt conversations reminded us all of the importance of honoring our elders.
• Youth Mentorship and STEM Activities: At several recreation centers, we held special workshops where young people engaged in hands-on science experiments, coding games, and career exploration discussions led by professionals and university students.
• Environmental Cleanups: Nearly 1,000 pounds of trash were removed from city parks, waterways, and streets. Volunteers also planted over 100 trees and distributed free recycling bins to promote sustainability.

These efforts were more than just tasks on a checklist—they were moments of connection, learning, and mutual support that will ripple through the community long after the day ends.

One of the most powerful outcomes of Tigers Give Back is the way it empowers future leaders. Many of our student volunteers return year after year, taking on new roles as team captains, project organizers, or ambassadors of service. Through these experiences, they learn about leadership, empathy, and civic responsibility in a hands-on, meaningful way.

One student volunteer, Maya H., shared, “Tigers Give Back taught me that leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about showing up, listening, and helping others grow. I’ve learned more from these service days than I ever could in a classroom.”

This sentiment is echoed by alumni who return to volunteer or donate, keeping the cycle of giving alive. It’s a testament to the enduring impact that one day of action can have when it is part of a broader culture of service.

Our community’s needs are diverse and evolving—from food insecurity and education gaps to environmental justice and mental health support. Tigers Give Back reminds us that solutions don’t come from one source alone. Real change requires collaboration between schools, businesses, nonprofits, government, and citizens.

That’s why we are proud of the many community partners who have joined us over the years. This year, over 50 local organizations partnered with us to identify needs, co-design projects, and ensure that our efforts were impactful and respectful of community voices. This partnership model ensures that Tigers Give Back is not just charity—it is solidarity.

While the emotional and social impact of Tigers Give Back is clear, we also recognize the value of data in demonstrating our outcomes. Over the past 15 years, we’ve tracked key indicators of success:

• Over 150,000 total volunteer hours contributed
• More than $750,000 in donated goods and services
• Support to over 200 community organizations
• A 90% volunteer return rate year over year
• Ongoing partnerships that have developed into year-round service initiatives

These numbers are more than just statistics—they are stories of hope, transformation, and resilience.

As we celebrate our 15th Annual Tigers Give Back Community Service Day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who makes this event possible: our volunteers, team leaders, donors, community partners, and behind-the-scenes coordinators. You are the heartbeat of this initiative.

We also acknowledge the many individuals in our community who inspire us with their strength and generosity every day. Our work is driven by a simple truth: when we give back, we all move forward.

Looking ahead, we are excited to expand our service programs, launch a new “Tigers Year of Service” fellowship, and deepen our community-based learning initiatives. Our vision is to make service not just a once-a-year event but a daily practice embedded in how we live, learn, and lead.

The 15th Annual Tigers Give Back Community Service Day is a milestone—but it’s also a promise. A promise to keep showing up. A promise to keep listening. A promise to keep building a future where every person is valued, supported, and empowered.

Fifteen years ago, we planted a seed. Today, that seed has grown into a vibrant tree, rooted in compassion and branching out with purpose. As we move forward, let us carry this spirit into every corner of our lives—because giving back is not just something we do, it’s who we are.