Arts & Sciences senior Lauren Brown, a biology major, believes service is an important part of life.
Brown volunteers at the Siena/Francis House, which she found out about it through the Creighton Center for Service and Justice.
The Siena Francis House is a shelter that provides emergency overnight shelter to men, women and women with children, and also provides over 1,100 meals daily through breakfast, lunch and dinner. Its mission is directed toward a concern and care for the poor.
It also extends beyond “merely answering physical needs to the acceptance and affirmation of the human person, the creation of an atmosphere of hospitality, and the provision of purpose and meaning in the lives of people who struggle for survival.”
Part of Brown’s service is sharing meals with these people and talking to them about everything from their daily lives to the struggles they face day in and day out.
They share joy, hopes and struggles. After they eat their meal, a member of the recovery program shares a testimony about the steps they have taken to overcome their addiction. Brown feels that the testimony is extremely special because the one sharing the story is very vulnerable in that situation; however, those who listen hear a story of something that can happen to anyone.
“During those stories, I am so appreciative of the courage it takes to share ones most intimate secrets with a group of complete strangers,” Brown said, “For me, it is difficult to hear about past mistakes and how relationships have been broken because of it, but what brings me joy is hearing how these relationships are repaired and lives are turned completely around.”
It is special for Brown to see how these people have counted themselves out, but ultimately prove to themselves and others that they are capable of turning their lives around. She encourages others to learn more about The Siena/ Francis House and to get involved in anyway you can.
Giving back to the community is something that enriches the soul and it is important for everyone to experience. It has shaped many of her experiences in life and improved her overall look on life.
Business senior Jason Pang, also a senior, notices the hard work Brown puts into the community.
“I have known Lauren for a long time and she has always worked hard in the community with giving service and helping others,” Pang said. “It is awesome to see the impact she has on others and the lives she improves just by
being there.”