An Opportunity To Serve
On September 17, 2025, Rosemont College students joined together to serve at St. Francis Inn in Philadelphia. The time provided an opportunity for students to live out the College’s mission of service and compassion. Volunteers worked with the Inn’s dedicated staff to prepare and serve meals for community members. The atmosphere was filled with gratitude, teamwork, and a shared commitment to helping others.
This experience reflected Rosemont College’s values of respect, justice, and community care. Students showed leadership and empathy throughout their service. The College extends its heartfelt thanks to every volunteer who participated in this meaningul event. Their spirit of generosity and dedication represented the true spirit of Rosemont.
Student Reflections: Madison Morton & Matthew Hauser
My name is Madi, and I am a junior at Rosemont College.
A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to serve at the St. Francis Inn alongside members from Rosemont College. This is the second time I have volunteered at St. Francis Inn, and I can confidently say it will not be my last. From this time and the last, I recognized how organized the staff and volunteers are. Through specific stations like bussing, washing, and plating, there’s is never an idle moment.
This time I worked in the back handing out sweets like cookies, donuts, and cakes. What stood out to me the most about this area was choice. Many of the people who came past my table told me “I don’t care what you give me.” And honestly, that hurt to hear. It hurt because it reminded me that for some people, choice can be a privilege. It also showed me how humble each person was to receive whatever they could – even if it was something they did not like – because of their need.
For the rest of my time volunteering, I let every person who came by my table take their time and choose what they wanted. I noticed some try to rush by and get whatever I wanted to hand them. So, I would let them look through the boxes and point out which sweets they truly wanted.
What stood out to me most about my time at St. Francis Inn was not the table of fruits or sweets, or how organized the facility is. It was the availability of choice. In a world where many underprivileged people do not have any choice – whether it is in their current situation, clothing, food, etc. – St. Francis Inn is able to provide them with choice and ultimately restore pieces of their humanity and dignity.
Matthew Hauser, a first year student, also shared his thoughts.
“My experience at St. Francis Inn was very fulfilling. To see those who have largely been neglected by society receive a warm meal comforts my heart.”
Join the Next Volunteer Opportunity at St. Francis Inn
Rosemont College invites students to take part in the next Serve Supper at St. Francis Inn on Monday, October 20th, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm. To participate, students should email [email protected] by 10:00am on Monday, October 20th to sign up.
