By Lillie Tretter, Staff Writer
Over 800 students from Ouachita Baptist University will step out of the classroom and into the community on September 27, coming together to serve Arkadelphia for the annual Tiger Serve Day. For the past 27 years, students and faculty members have worked alongside one another, helping the community with tasks that they are unable to accomplish on their own. From simple household chores and lawn care, to organizing projects, teams work diligently to ensure that all residents are cared for, putting their Christian faith to work.
This year’s theme, “Overflow,” is based on 1 John 4:19: “We love because he first loved us.” Judy Duvall, director of the Elrod Center, believes that when we experience God’s unconditional love, we love him in return, and we cannot keep that love to ourselves. This love we have received naturally overflows into the lives of others as Christians. “That is the essence of Tiger Serve Day,” says Duvall. “This overflow of love is shown in our community practically and relationally by lending a helping hand, establishing relationships and showing compassion.”
That love was on display last spring when a Tiger Serve Day team was sent to the home of a 98-year-old woman named Muriel Hasley, who lives alone. The team worked on simple chores such as cleaning windows, wiping down dusty fans, changing light bulbs and organizing piles of papers, things that Hasley was unable to do by herself. As they worked, she shared stories from her life, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. When the team finished, Hasley insisted on giving back, offering the team oranges as a thank you for their service. “The experience highlighted the reciprocal nature of helping others. Serving others provides a sense of gratitude and can inspire others to do the same,” said team leader Emma Dill.
For many students, Tiger Serve Day is more than a one-time event. It is the jumpstart of service in every area of their life, showing the importance of community and connection. For students, serving can also help create a stronger sense of community here at Ouachita. It is another way for more students to get involved, make campus-wide connections, strengthen relationships and find their place here at Ouachita.
Senior Mika Celicourt, Project Chair for Tiger Serve Day, first participated in the event as a freshman and had no idea the impact it would have on her life. “It allowed me to step out of my comfort zone. I learned how to work with others. I felt guided to serve others, be there for others, and be the hands and the feet of Jesus,” said Celicourt. Tiger Serve Day is more than a single act of kindness; it can shape the way students view and interact with the world around them. For Celicourt, what began as a one Saturday project grew into her calling to lead and serve others.
Everyone is welcome to participate in Tiger Serve Day. There is a place for everyone to serve, and it is an incredible way for people to be more involved on campus. “Do not hesitate to reach out or sign up; there is a team for everybody, you will not regret it,” says Duvall. Students can sign up as individuals or through a club or organization and must sign up by September 19. Tiger Serve Day is more than just a single Saturday; it’s a reminder that when God’s love overflows in us, it naturally pours into others, creating a stronger community.
