[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/macserve.jpg” caption=”Students take part in Mac Serve 2008. This year, nearly 200 students will volunteer throughout Hamilton as part of Mac Serve program. File photo. “]”We must be the change we wish to see in the world” – those words, spoken by Gandhi so many years ago, will guide the participants of this year's Mac Serve as they perform a day of volunteer work at placements throughout the community.

The event, scheduled for September 26, will see nearly 200 McMaster students lend a helping hand to non-profit organizations in the Hamilton community working to make a difference in the lives of others. The one-day venture, organized by the Office of Community Service-Learning and Civic Engagement (OCSLCE), gives students the opportunity to learn more about social issues and the needs that exist in Hamilton as well as give back to the city.

Students will spend the day at volunteer placements with organizations such as The Hamilton Dream Centre, Green Venture and Participation House, where organizers hope they will learn something new about themselves as well as the Hamilton community.

“We are very lucky to have so many amazing agencies in Hamilton,” said OCSLCE Community Liaison, Drew Simon. “A lot of them have hosted students for Mac Serve for many years now.”

After students complete their placements, facilitated discussions will be held to connect the experience to their academic and personal life.

“The reflection activities after the service project bridge the gap between what we accomplish at the agency and how we can continue to remain engaged and involved as citizens,” said Simon.

Students like Jacky Chan, who is both a participant and a group leader, are looking forward to volunteering.

“I really want to give back to the Hamilton community,” said Chan. “Mac Serve provides an excellent opportunity for us to show our appreciation to and support for the city.”