LOVE Fullerton is an annual event where students, families, churches, local businesses, firefighters, police officers, and city leaders unite to give back to the city through service projects. Although the weather caused a few interruptions, the strong turnout and high spirits proved that the heart of Fullerton beats strong even in the rain.
Volunteers arrived at Fullerton College early in the morning to start their day of service and community connection. At 8 a.m., they were treated to a complimentary breakfast and coffee provided by local supporters.
As volunteers enjoyed their morning meal, the college quad filled with booths from community groups like the City of Fullerton Library, local police and fire departments, Fullerton College Dual Enrollment, and the Rotary Club. The official opening kickoff took place from 8:25 to 9 a.m., with volunteers picking up information and encouragement for the day ahead.
“I just love to serve the community. I’ve lived here for 42 years and volunteer at Pathways of Hope, the food bank,” said Donna Leavitt, a longtime Fullerton resident. “My daughter is a Fullerton College graduate.”
President Cynthia Olivo also spoke about the importance of service, loves the way the community comes together every year to help all around the city. Some of these projects have been done here on campus, for example, the Children’s Lab. She has participated in three of LOVE Fullerton’s events and has met many different people.
“Volunteer work is essential and something we should practice as much as we can,” Olivo said. “It helps students find what major or career they want to pursue and introduces them to more people. Volunteer work is beneficial on so many levels.”.
By 9 a.m., the volunteers headed to their assigned project sites. Some, like those at Hillcrest Park, faced tough weather. Michelle Bernier, the project leader at Hillcrest Park, called off the clean-up after 30 minutes as rain soaked the volunteers and made working conditions unsafe.
Other projects, such as the elderly assistance at the Park Vista Health Center, drew volunteers indoors
The tunes of Johnny Cash and John Williams filled the center thanks to volunteer performances.
An array of dance, instrumental, and vocal entertainment–mainly by children–brought smiles to the elderly community members.
Alongside the melodies, a group of adults led craft activities. Crafts included pin making, coloring, and sticker mats.
The community volunteers consisted of 36 members from the First Evangelical Community Church. This included adults, teenagers, and children in fellowship. These church members have been participating in LOVE Fullerton since 2016, according to team leader Amy Tao.
Sarah Wang, a volunteer, says they specifically sign up for nursing homes because of their church’s fellowship program.
“We’ve been going to different nursing homes these past few years because we are a family fellowship,” Wang said. “We have family, kids, and teenagers, so we want to come here to entertain our seniors and bring God’s love to them.”
Volunteers returned to Fullerton College for a well-earned afterparty. Flame Broiler, Chick-fil-A, Zecto Hot Chicken, Madero 1899, Costco Pizza, and Roscoe’s Hot Dogs provided free meals for the participants.
After another rainstorm arrived, volunteers ducked under vendor tents while others found shelter near the library entrance. Many quickly ate their meals before heading home, ending the event a little earlier than planned.
