CHADRON – More than 360 Chadron State College students and employees volunteered at 60 job sites April 26 during The Big Event (TBE), an annual day of service that includes painting fences, stairs, and buildings for Chadron residents and businesses. Other tasks included yard work, picking up trash, and cleaning out plant beds. Volunteers also completed indoor activities such as cleaning and organizing at churches and museums.

Beth Kizer with the First Congregational Church said it was the organization’s fourth time hosting TBE volunteers.

“Having the students come is a win-win for everybody. They were pleasant and kind. It's great for the community and great for us. We need the extra help and we're grateful they came. We're just delighted,” Kizer said.

Sherri Blome, who was a first-time participant, had two volunteers who scraped and painted exterior stairs at her home.

“They did an amazing job. I’m so thankful for their help,” Blome said.

Dawes County Historical Society Museum volunteer Phyllis Carlson said she always looks forward to The Big Event.

“We had a bunch of football men who worked outside even though the wind was high and it was damp. They worked like crazy outside and got it cleaned up beautifully. They hauled away about eight huge trash bags full of leaves and debris from around the buildings. We always appreciate them so much, and they always seem to enjoy the task. We're so grateful for the program. It has been absolutely marvelous,” Carlson said.

Kelcey Roberts, owner and operator of Roberts Counseling Services, said the cool, windy weather didn’t discourage the women’s golf team members who painted the exterior of her business on Main Street.

“The girls all brought a positive attitude and showed great teamwork. We recently purchased the office and have been busy completing renovation projects. Having that many helpers made a daunting task go by quickly,” Roberts said.

Chadron resident Kathy Stokey, who hosted a group of four volunteers at her residence, said it was a great opportunity to meet students.

“I was so excited to be a site for the Big Event. The students were so kind and did such an awesome job,” Stokey said.

TBE started at Texas A&M University in 1982 and now occurs at 125 campuses across the nation. The Big Event was established at CSC in 2013. For those interested in becoming a job site or a volunteer next year, a form on the TBE website will be activated several weeks before the event.