Resident Assistants Partake in Local Community Service Efforts

Resident Assistants combine leadership development with meaningful community impact
 

As part of Spring 2026 Resident Assistant (RA) training, 28 student leaders partnered with Berks Nature for a day of hands-on community service in January. Rather than solely discussing leadership and community engagement, the RAs embodied these principles through action, dedicating two hours to environmental stewardship across local green spaces.

Berks Nature, a nonprofit organization devoted to preserving and enhancing the region's natural resources, welcomed the group with a mission that aligned seamlessly with Alvernia's commitment to service. Equipped with gloves, tools, and enthusiasm, the RAs dispersed across several project sites, ready to contribute meaningfully to the community they call home during the academic year.

The day began with an introduction to Berks Nature's work, giving students insight into the organization's impact throughout the county. When asked what moments from the event stood out as especially meaningful or memorable, RA Angelise Rodriguez shared, "The tour of Berks Nature, where we were able to hear about all of the programs and activities they have at Berks Nature, and then being able to go out and actually make an impact by doing something as small as picking up trash on the trails that we as Alvernia students have access to."

PHOTO: Resident Assistants transport mulch while volunteering at Berks Nature

One group focused on mulching the grounds at Berks Nature. Spreading fresh mulch not only improved the property's appearance but also supported soil health and plant growth. What began as a physically demanding task quickly became a shared accomplishment, as students encouraged one another and celebrated visible progress with every completed section.

Another team traversed Angelica Creek Park, where they conducted a thorough litter cleanup. Bags filled quickly as RAs removed discarded plastics, paper, and debris from creek banks, road shoulders, and walking paths. Their efforts helped restore the natural beauty of the park while reinforcing the importance of caring for shared public spaces.

Meanwhile, a third group engaged in trailblazing along local hiking trails. Clearing brush and defining pathways ensured safer and more accessible routes for future visitors. This work reflected both perseverance and teamwork, as students navigated uneven terrain and problem-solved together to complete the project.

PHOTO: : Resident Assistants take part in a litter cleanup with Berks Nature.

RA Nicholas Colletti reflected on the experience, saying, "The program taught us the tremendous ways Berks Nature promotes sustainability. However, this program also allowed us to take an active role in these efforts. We were divided into groups, focusing on picking up trash around Angelica Park, fixing up the new trails, and mulching another area of the park. These efforts helped build a stronger awareness of Berks Nature and the ways we can actively promote sustainability in the local community."

While each service activity differed, a common purpose united the day: living out the Alvernia Core Values. Service was evident in every shovel of mulch and every bag of litter collected. Collegiality emerged through teamwork and shared motivation. Humility was present as students embraced meaningful, hands-on labor. Peacemaking appeared in the care shown toward the environment and community, and Contemplation took shape in moments of quiet reflection outdoors.

Beyond the physical work, the experience strengthened bonds among the RAs as they prepared for the upcoming semester. Working side-by-side in unfamiliar settings encouraged communication, trust, and mutual respect - essential qualities for resident leaders dedicated to supporting their peers on campus.

By the end of the day, the impact was visible not only in cleaner parks and improved trails but also in renewed purpose among the participants. Through partnership with Berks Nature, Alvernia's Resident Assistants demonstrated that leadership begins with service, and that caring for community spaces is a powerful way to care for the people who inhabit them.