Students from The University of Scranton traveled to communities across the United States in January for domestic service trips organized by the University’s Center for Service and Social Justice (CSSJ).
Each trip was led by a peer facilitator, individuals who played a leadership role and supported their fellow students throughout the experience. Their efforts combined direct service with opportunities to build relationships and reflect on issues such as homelessness, poverty and access to resources.
Patrick George ’26, a graduate operations and supply chain management student from Endwell, New York, helped lead a group of seven students and three chaperones to Washington, D.C. The volunteers partnered with organizations supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.
The Royals worked primarily with the Father McKenna Center, assisting with meal preparation, organizing donations and building relationships with clients.
Connecting with the people they served was the greatest emphasis of their work in D.C. “It was our goal to remind the clients of their humanity and give them genuine human connection and relationship,” George said.
Students also volunteered with We Are Family and the Catholic Worker, distributing food and supplies and participating in outreach throughout the city.
Daily reflections rooted in the Jesuit Examen helped students process their experiences and remain focused on four themes: presence, patience, perspective and moving forward.
According to George, the relationships formed during the week had the greatest impact. “There was a genuine exchange of love in both directions.”
The experience had a lasting impact on George, particularly in his career discernment.
“This trip to D.C. solidified to me that I can do the most amount of good by working at a place like the Father McKenna Center,” he said. “Since coming back from this trip, I have committed myself to finding a job where I can lead people and serve the marginalized in a manner that glorifies God.”