More than 700 University of Scranton students came to find ways to serve at the Community Outreach Office’s annual Volunteer Fair at the DeNaples Center’s McIlhenny Ballroom Sept. 13.

For some students, like Louie Porreca, a sophomore neuroscience major from Marltown, N.J., the motivation for service is simple.

“I honestly enjoy it,” Porreca said. “It makes you feel good. It’s kind of cliché, but it does. You don’t get a grade or money for it, but it’s important in another way.”

Other students, like Michael Wiencek, a senior biology and philosophy major from Fleetwood, see a mission related meaning.

“I think it really shows the University’s Jesuit mission of being men and women for others,” Wiencek said. “The work can really be a life-changing experience. It’s what makes us The University of Scranton, as we watch out for others as well as ourselves.”

The student body reflects well the University’s commitment to volunteerism and service work. Each year, more than 2,800 students of the Jesuit university total over 170,000 services hours. The University has been nationally recognized for its volunteer work and has been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.

Area nonprofit agencies appreciate the volunteer spirit of Scranton students.

“I think they are great,” said Kevin Calpin, volunteer coordinator for the Steamtown Marathon. “As a University of Scranton graduate, I’ve always seen University students as willing to help those that needed help, and I hope they continue doing so.”

More than 75 local nonprofit organizations participated in the fair to inform students of service projects available at their agency. Participants included St. Francis Soup Kitchen, the American Red Cross and the Greater Carbondale YMCA.

For more information on service opportunities available, contact the University’s Community Outreach Office at 570-941-7429 or visit http://matrix.scranton.edu/studentlife/ministries/community-outreach/.