By TYLER ELLYSON
UNK Communications
KEARNEY – Two decades ago, a small group of University of Nebraska at Kearney students set out to create something bigger than themselves – a single day dedicated to serving the community that supports Lopers.
What began in 2006 with about 200 student volunteers and roughly 30 job sites has since grown into one of UNK’s most recognizable traditions.
On Saturday, that tradition reached a milestone as The Big Event celebrated its 20th anniversary, bringing together approximately 400 students who volunteered at more than 60 sites across Kearney and the surrounding area.
During the morning kickoff at Cope Stadium, Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs George Holman reflected on the event’s origins, sharing remarks from Matt Sullivan, the UNK Student Government member who led the team that brought The Big Event to Kearney.
“We are going to serve the Kearney community because of the support that it gives us as a university,” Sullivan said at the time. “We are embarking on a new UNK tradition. While service isn’t new to this campus by any means, a project this big that makes such a big difference in one day will impact Kearney for years to come.”
That vision has become reality.
“Matt was right,” Holman told the crowd. “It’s had a big impact, and it’s made a big difference, and it’s become a big tradition here at UNK.”
Lots of Loper spirit
The Big Event continues to unite students from across campus – fraternities and sororities, student-athletes, academic clubs, honors organizations and international groups – for a common cause.
“It’s truly inspiring to see so many people coming together to make a difference,” said Carly Gaedeke, a junior from Columbus and this year’s lead organizer through UNK Student Government.
Gaedeke, who’s studying political science and business administration with a pre-law focus, believes the level of participation reflects the culture of service at UNK.
“I think that’s really special, because it’s not something you see everywhere,” she said. “UNK students always show up, and they’re always filled with lots of Loper spirit. I’m just really grateful that they’re all willing to give a few hours of their time to do something good for this community.”
Guided by the motto “One Big Day, One Big Thanks,” volunteers spent the day completing a wide range of projects, from spring cleaning and yardwork to trash pickup and painting.
At the Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home, students from the Kearney Health Opportunities Program (KHOP) and Alpha Omicron Pi sorority helped set up garden patios for residents.
“It’s very valuable for us and for our members,” said Jessica Modlin, manager of activities and volunteer services. “They help us get things done quickly so our members can enjoy these spaces. We really appreciate their dedication.”
For Hannah Meyer, the experience carried added meaning. A Grand Island native now in nursing school at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Kearney, she works as a certified nursing assistant at the Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home, making this year’s project a full-circle moment.
A member of Alpha Omicron Pi, Meyer noted the sorority’s ongoing commitment to serving military members and veterans, including its Sisters for Soldiers project, which provides holiday care packages for service members stationed overseas. The organization was also recognized this year for having the highest participation in The Big Event over time.
“I think it’s really important to give back to the community,” Meyer said. “We tend to focus on classes and just getting through college most of the time, but there’s a bigger picture.”
Modlin hopes opportunities like this encourage students to stay involved long after The Big Event ends.
“I want them to enjoy their time volunteering out here,” she said. “Maybe it will plant a seed for somebody who will want to become an independent volunteer out here, because we’re always looking for more people.”
A shared purpose
Meanwhile, at Crossroads Mission Avenue, another group of UNK students sorted donations inside the organization’s thrift store, which helps fund shelter, recovery and emergency assistance services in central Nebraska. This is the third straight year the nonprofit has hosted volunteers during The Big Event.
“We rely heavily on volunteers to help us accomplish our mission and serve the community, so we’re thankful for the partnership that we have with UNK,” said Jake Ondrak.
The assistant executive director ensures the experience benefits both the organization and the students by giving them a chance to tour the shelter, gain a deeper understanding of its work and see firsthand how it serves the community, helping break down stereotypes along the way.
“I love seeing the students come in and be part of something that’s bigger than themselves,” he said.
That mindset is evident among everyone involved.
“I think it’s really special that we all get together and have a shared vision and purpose of serving the community,” said junior Skyler Summers, a pre-medical student from Gibbon. “Volunteer work is very important, especially in a community that does so much to support us.”
Summers spent the morning at Crossroads Mission Avenue with fellow KHOP members. After The Big Event, she assisted at fundraisers for the S.A.F.E. Center and Kearney Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program.
“It’s a full day of volunteer work for me,” she said with a smile.
Like many others, members of the UNK football team make it a point to give back throughout the year, including during The Big Event. Service is a key part of the program’s culture.
“As a team, we want to show up for the community,” said sophomore offensive lineman Hampton Henderson. “It’s bigger than football. We want to be there for Kearney and the UNK community.”
The business administration major is originally from Wisconsin, but it didn’t take long to develop a genuine connection to his college town.
“I love Kearney. I love the people. It’s been amazing,” he said.
Kearney Mayor Jonathan Nikkila thanked students during the kickoff event, emphasizing the strong relationship between the university and the community.
“The people of Kearney are very proud of this university and are proud of the students who attend,” he said. “UNK is a huge part of our community.”
That appreciation is exactly what The Big Event aims to reflect.
“The Kearney community gives UNK and the students so much,” Gaedeke said. “This is a great way to pay that forward and show that we’re thankful.”
PHOTOS BY ERIKA PRITCHARD AND TYLER ELLYSON
UNK COMMUNICATIONS
