Servant leadership is the desire to give back and serve those around, the idea of putting the needs of others ahead of your own, and the capability to lead others around you to serve. These are the qualities that the Iowa Lakes Softball Team have demonstrated in the past 6 months. They have taken time out of their schedules to ensure that those around them feel loved and supported. Their time has been spent helping many different areas within the Estherville Community.
"Community service is so important and is such a rewarding experience. Volunteering gives a sense of purpose that you are doing something worthwhile and making a difference in someone's life. Serving others allows you to meet people you would not have otherwise met, and makes you feel grateful for everything you have in life. I find sheer joy in seeing volunteers step outside of doing things for themselves, but instead contribute to the community and help others," commented freshman, Brooklyn Mickelson.
The Lakers have spent countless hours supporting the school system. They started off the year by assisting at the Demoney Family Fun Night. That night they were target practice at the dunk tank, posted outside the bouncy houses, and made the food which was served to those who attended. They also helped out at the Back to School Bash and walked in the homecoming parade. But their biggest contribution to the local school system was the time spent every week at Demoney Elementary. Every week, a member of the Laker softball team would volunteer their time to assist in a classroom for an hour. During their time, they read books to the kids, helped out at lunch, or participated in classroom activities as needed. These services allowed them to build relationships with the kids and teachers that will last a lifetime.
Back at the beginning of the year, high winds whipped through Estherville that left many community members and businesses in a panic. The Lakers found themselves some rain boots and gloves and spent two days helping members of the community and business owners clean up their yards. They also helped out the local law enforcement during their Active Shooter Disaster Drill, spent time at the local Animal Shelter, and assisted the Special Olympics during their rummage sale. One of the girls' favorite events is assisting Crossroads Community Church with their Mobile Food Pantry every other month. During the event, the girls walk around aiding people while they shop for groceries. They also stock the tables, carry groceries out to vehicles, and translate for those who might speak a different language.
Sophomore, Alexi Pallisco, had this to say about the opportunity to work at the mobile food pantry, "I love to give back to this community! When I see Linda at the mobile food pantry, she puts a smile on my face. Yes, we are giving back to the community but what Linda and everybody else might not realize is how much they are giving to us. Her smile makes me want to make other people's day. Working there, I have met so many new people and learned their stories. This has given me a new perspective and appreciation for my life and the things that I have."
The softball team has also been a driving force of service within the Iowa Lakes community. Around the campus, the Laker softball team has taken leadership roles in many events. This year they served on student panels, answered questions from potential student-athletes, assisted during athletic events, for example volleyball intermissions, and served lunch to high school students at Career Exploration Day.
"I think the coolest thing about watching these girls give back, is that they truly enjoy it. They embrace every event as an opportunity to help those in need, give back, and grow. They show up with a smile on their face ready serve!" commented Coach Larson.