A number of sociology students are thrusting themselves into service learning during a time when giving is of the utmost importance.

Professor Debbie White’s sociology class is involved in four volunteer projects around the community, two of which are helping those displaced and affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

The students are giving of their time by volunteering for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, a local non-profit agency which has stockpiled goods for dispersal to hurricane evacuees. As part of a service learning course, the students will prepare and dole out the goods – from furniture sets to clothing, diapers, toys and toiletries – to those in need.

“I want to help other people so they can get back on their feet,” freshman Rachael Bachinskas said.

The two other groups are volunteering to work with terminally ill patients. Sophomore Geraldine Munting was affected by the scenes flashed on TVs following the destruction of the two storms. This work, however, will not be her last.

“I want to help those people because we saw what they went through,” she said. “This has developed an interest for me in volunteerism. When something else comes up I will help because on another day I may need help.”

White has been involved in service learning courses since 1990.

“One of the things the students are finding out is that they can make a difference,” she said. “They are young and strong and there is a lot they can do.”

Students in sociology professor Debbie White’s class pack up and label boxes for victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita at a Plano warehouse.

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