Assisting Veterans, Stocking the Pantry and Helping Out at the Farm: The Class of 2028 Gives Back

Panthers jumped into action to serve local nonprofits before the fall semester began.

Before even setting foot in an Adelphi classroom, some members of the incoming Class of 2028 were already getting involved. These passionate Panthers weeded and harvested vegetables for Crossroads Farm's indoor produce market in Malverne, New York; beautified a garden to brighten the days of the veterans at the Northport VA Medical Center in Northport, New York; and organized and sorted clothes and nonperishable items at Adelphi's own Panther Pantry.

These students participated in the First-Year Community Action Program (FCAP). Offered by the Center for Student and Community Engagement (CSE) since 2006, the program is open to all incoming first-year students, with 20 participating this summer with the help of upper-division-student FCAP leaders.

"FCAP teaches students that it's important to give back to the community," said Kelsey D'Andrea, assistant director of the CSE. She explained that FCAP drives home the importance of giving back to the greater Long Island community. The program helps students understand how local organizations are helping as well as gives them the opportunity to see a side of the area they may not normally see while working with like-minded individuals who believe in helping others.

Not only does the program provide Adelphi and local nonprofits with much-needed assistance, D'Andrea stated that "having students who understand the different struggles our community faces gives them a better perception on where they can help to make a difference."

Students Effecting Change

Some students plan to continue in their efforts. Mark Cohen, a sport management major, said he felt that what he was doing was bringing together Adelphi students with members of the greater Long Island community.

"I especially liked helping the veterans," he said, "because I feel like they have done the work for us by protecting our country and putting country first, so I feel like we should help them. Even if it's in a small way, it makes a big impact on the veterans."

Siddhi Pandey, a nursing major, chose to participate in FCAP because it offered her the chance to build friendships before starting college and provided an opportunity to give back to her community through meaningful service projects.

"I learned that making a difference in the community doesn't require a lot-it's all about having the right mindset," Pandey said. "When you're eager to help, the work becomes enjoyable and doesn't feel like a chore. Community service is not just about work; it is also about learning to be more empathetic and compassionate toward the community. It taught me communication, collaboration and leadership skills, and how much of an impact I can make on my community."

As she begins her first semester at Adelphi, Pandey plans to join clubs dedicated to giving back and is interested in applying to become a FCAP leader.

"I was very fortunate to have such wonderful leaders this year who are the rock of the program," D'Andrea said. "They are some of the most genuine and supportive students I've met, and I'm glad our first-year students were able to meet and learn from them."