This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Neighbor News

Elgin Community College to Host Volunteer Fair to Inspire Community Connection

On October 28, 2025, Elgin Community College's Office of Student Life will host a Volunteer Fair in celebration of Make a Difference Day.

Three people talk at a past volunteer fair at Elgin Community College.
Three people talk at a past volunteer fair at Elgin Community College. (Mark Carriveau / Elgin Community College)

Elgin Community College (ECC) students will connect with local organizations and learn how they can make a difference. On October 28, ECC’s Office of Student Life will host a Volunteer Fair in celebration of Make a Difference Day, an annual day of service nationwide.

This year’s theme, β€œGive Help, Give Hope,” underscores how community action creates a lasting impact and inspires hope. The fair will bring together more than 25 local agencies to share resources and recruit volunteers for ongoing and future initiatives.

β€œThe event gives students the opportunity to learn about the many ways they can make a difference, whether big or small, and get involved in their communities,” said Gema Atta, student life coordinator.

Find out what's happening in Elginfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Organizations participating include the City of Elgin, Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois, CASA Kane County, ReStore Habitat for Humanity Northern Fox Valley, and more. The full list of participating groups can be found on Student Life’s Facebook page.

Atta added that the fair was developed in response to growing interest from students seeking ways to engage with their community.

Find out what's happening in Elginfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

β€œMany people want to give back and be part of something positive, especially given the challenges we’re facing in the world,” she said. β€œThis volunteer fair is a great starting point for students to discover how they can make a difference.”

β€œWe believe strongly in the positive effects of service on our students and believe as citizens we should give back to our communities,” said Amybeth Maurer, assistant dean of the student experience and engagement. β€œThe fair is a great opportunity to see all of the resources and support that our community offers.”

Event Details:

  • Date: Tuesday, October 28
  • Time: 10:30 am to 2 pm
  • Location: 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin, IL, Building B, Jobe Lounge
  • Set-up: Arrive any time between 9 am and 10 am
  • Expected attendance: 200 to 300 people

Any questions on the fair can be directed to Gema Atta at geatta@elgin.edu.

All media-related questions or interview requests can be directed to the ECC Communications team at news@elgin.edu.

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?