UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State and State College got a boost over the weekend thanks to 449 students who volunteered as part of the State Day of Service.

The Council of LionHearts mobilized students to give their time and talents Feb. 27 at 21 locations during the event’s sixth year. Students lent a hand to nonprofits such as Stop Hunger Now, CentrePeace, Schlow Centre Region Library and Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania. On Feb. 28, students from the Interfraternity and Panhellenic councils also cleaned up litter in downtown State College as part of State Sweep.  

"State Day of Service is one of our most impactful day of service events," said Matt Barone, assistant director for service and leadership in Student Activities. "The student volunteers who give their day to service are role models on our campus and understand the importance of giving back to their community. This year, the event featured projects that will have an immediate impact on our local community, and with the help of Stop Hunger Now, we are packaging meals that will go to people in need all over the world."

Established in 2004, the Council of LionHearts is comprised of student representatives from Penn State’s most active volunteer and community service student organizations. 

For State Day of Service, the Council of LionHearts partners with Student Activities, the Interfraternity Council, the Panhellenic Council and the borough of State College to create service opportunities for students and community members.