Volunteer work in the community builds comaraderie on campus

For members of the Department of Biochemistry, volunteering their time in a local soup kitchen has become part of their culture.  It was in early 2010 when Derek McLachlin, associate professor, along with Esther Rosenthal, then a student in fourth year, set up a volunteer program that invites all department members to become involved two days a week in two of the community’s soup kitchens.  

To build capacity for the program, McLachlin set up a website that allows department members to sign up for shifts and understand their duties. The program has a great impact on the community and at the same time has enriched the camaraderie in the department.

“Being involved in the project, helps to create ties amongst people within our department, making it feel like a warmer place to be,” said McLachlin.

McLachlin derives great personal satisfaction from the volunteer work. “I feel pleasure and even joy, that I am able to do just a small thing to fulfill what I see as God’s desire that we help others in need.”