A group of students from Georgia Southwestern State University's (GSW) President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program (PJCLP) recently contributed over 400 volunteer hours at Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, Fla. This nonprofit resort provides cost-free, memory-making vacations for critically ill children and their families, allowing GSW students to make a meaningful impact through compassionate service and support.
During their five-day stay from Oct. 19-23, students assisted with an array of immersive and joyful experiences. From horse rides, ice cream for breakfast, themed parties, dino putt-putt, arcade gaming and spa trips to serving meals and handling essential behind-the-scenes tasks, the students brought smiles and laughter to the children and their families. They sang, danced, and connected with the children, learning their stories and sharing each moment's joy.
"This trip was an unforgettable experience that perfectly highlighted the power of small acts of kindness and their immense impact," said Mikela Barlow, program coordinator. "Every detail is designed to bring comfort and joy to children and families facing unimaginable challenges. It was inspiring to witness our students rise to the occasion with such compassion and energy. Watching them interact with the children and families was one of the most touching aspects."
Here's what some of students had to say about their trip:
"I have always wanted an opportunity to impact someone's life for the better and [this trip] allowed me to accomplish that goal," said Jer'Ryiiah Palmer, a freshman from Statesboro, Ga. in Cohort 6. "I became closer to my PJCLP family, and I'm thankful for all of the fun memories and bonding experiences we shared, which will always connect us even after leaving GSW."
"I never knew how much a smile from a young child could impact my life, how much their smile makes you rethink your perspective on life," said Cassidy Ware, a junior from McDonough, Ga. in Cohort 4.
"Being able to serve others and help give people a once-in-a-lifetime experience gave me some of the purest joy I have ever felt," said Analiese Bevans, a freshman from Dallas, Ga. in Cohort 6.
"The most significant thing I learned was that even the most minor selfless actions impact others," shared Yeilin Roque, a freshman from Hinesville, Ga. in Cohort 6.
"Because of this opportunity, I will forever make every day count and be reminded that we are always people first, no matter what," said Cailey Ware, a freshman from McDonough, Ga. in Cohort 6.
"My experience reminded me of how indomitable the human spirit is when people come together under one task, which in this case was to comfort and enjoy these families who are going through something I could only imagine, said Kenneth "K.J." Daniels Jr., a senior chemistry major.
The group was also honored to meet with Pamela Landwirth, president and CEO of Give Kids the World Village, who shared insights about the Village's mission and the importance of service. Landwirth's passion and dedication inspired the students to consider new ways to impact their communities and broaden their leadership skills.
Adding to the trip's significance, GSW alum Chris Mitchell ('85) accompanied the students, enriching their experience with exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and invaluable insights into the Village's daily operations. Mitchell, a longtime Village volunteer, provided incredible meals and generously shared knowledge that deepened the students' understanding of the Village's mission. His efforts made the experience memorable for everyone involved.
"Despite the long hours and the physical, mental, and emotional demands, I saw each student's service-mindedness shine through," said Barlow. "Between shifts, they would nap like I'd never seen before, utterly exhausted. But the moment a child walked by, they immediately lit up, smiling and waving with the same enthusiasm. Those small gestures made all the difference, not only to the children but also to how the students saw themselves. Over just five days, I watched the students transform. They thought they were there to serve the children and families, but by the end, they realized they had also served themselves-learning about the value of resilience, empathy, and selflessness."
Students who attended the trip were: Seniors in Cohort 3: Ashley Carag from Macon, Ga.; Alex Espitia from Newton, Ga.; Dre'a Singleton from Columbus, Ga.: Juniors in Cohort 4: Amir Middleton and Cassidy Ware, both from McDonough, Ga.; Freshmen in Cohort 6: Austin Hatcher from Pelham, Ga.; Sidae Lee from Yangju-si, South Korea; Yeilin Roque from Hinesville, Ga.; Cailey Ware from McDonough, Ga.; Mason Jordan from Macon, Ga.; Abbie Roberson from Manchester, Ga.; Analiese Bevans from Dallas, Ga.; Gabrielle Foster from Atlanta, Ga.; Ty'rianna Anderson from Macon, Ga.; Jordyn Johnson from Eastman, Ga.; Jer'Ryiiah Palmer from Statesboro, Ga; and Kenneth Daniels Jr., a senior from Sylvester, Ga., not PJCLP but designated as honorary for this trip.
Georgia Southwestern State University, located in Americus, Ga., is a public, four-year unit of the University System of Georgia with approximately 3,500 students. Georgia Southwestern offers outstanding professional programs of study as well as degrees in the arts, humanities, sciences and graduate programs in business, computer science, education, English, and nursing. Founded in 1906, Georgia Southwestern is recognized as one of the best value colleges in the nation. Visit www.gsw.edu for more information.
