Volunteers sought for The Big Event

LAWRENCE — Thousands of volunteers are sought for The Big Event, which returns for its third year next month.

The Big Event connects University of Kansas students, faculty and staff with the Lawrence community by recruiting volunteers to work at hundreds of local job sites during one day of service.

“We are trying to create a tradition where the KU students and Lawrence community can feel connected through community service,” said Lauren Reinhart, executive director of The Big Event. “We want to give back to Lawrence everything it has given to us.”

The goal for this year's event, which will be 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 13, is to have 4,000 volunteers working at approximately 400 job sites. Any home, school, community organization or public space is welcome to register. Job sites are not need-based, meaning anyone can apply regardless of how big or small the job is.  

Some examples of projects volunteers have done at job sites include painting, raking leaves, washing windows, gardening, moving heavy objects and much more. Volunteers will complete any task that is requested, within reason.

To register as a volunteer or to sign your residence up as a job site, please visit The Big Event online. Registration is open until Sunday, March 31.