Tarleton Student Volunteers Take on Community Service Projects for Round Up

STEPHENVILLE, Texas — More than 1,100 student volunteers tackled 109 requests for assistance at the annual Round Up, Tarleton State University’s largest student-led community service project.

RU release pic 4 — More than 1,100 student volunteers pitched in to handle a variety of chores for local residents for the 25th Tarleton State University Round Up in November.

For 25 years Tarleton State students have pitched in for the day on yard work, window washing, painting and other chores in the Stephenville area.

“Tarleton Round Up is such a special event,” said Callie Dixon, Assistant Director for Public Relations. “It is completely student led and holds so many professional growth opportunities for students of all majors and classifications.”

Community members served included local business owners and older homeowners who needed help with tasks around their property.

“The student body gets a taste of true community service while also getting to directly see the impact that is made all in one day,” Callie said.

Seven student volunteers and a leadership team of 32 planned and executed Round Up under the guidance of advisor Erika Key and Student Director Kayla Key

Kayla has been in her position for two years.

“I have met some incredible students who give up their time to help out the residents of Stephenville,” she said. “I have also met some wonderful community members who are extremely grateful for what this organization does.

“I have been invited to Thanksgivings, Christmases, Easters, I was told that if I did not have a birthday cake for my birthday that I could stop by this little old lady’s house by the hospital that she would make me a cake for my birthday. I have had residents cry because they are so thankful for the work that we do. My favorite part about Round Up is when students come back from serving at their jobsite and tell the stories and memories that they have made while serving the residents of Stephenville.”

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.