Earlier this year, a group of Ohio State University students traveled to Washington, DC, not just to see the sights, but to serve the community through Buck-I-SERV, the university’s signature alternative break program. Their destination was Food & Friends, the D.C. region’s leader in providing medically tailored meals to people living with serious illnesses. For many of the students, the experience became one of the most meaningful volunteer opportunities they had ever had.
Buck-I-SERV (Buckeyes Involved in Service) is designed to immerse students in service while encouraging reflection, learning, and connection. The program offers students the chance to travel locally, nationally, or internationally to partner with community organizations and explore social issues firsthand. This trip to Washington, DC marked the first Buck-I-SERV experience for many participants—and their first time visiting the city.
From the moment they arrived at Food & Friends, students were struck by how welcoming and organized the organization was. “Everybody here is super cool and knowledgeable,” said second-year student Allison Christensen. “It’s really easy to jump right in and get busy. We’re always doing something productive, and it feels time-efficient and meaningful.” That sense of purpose was echoed by many in the group, who appreciated being able to clearly see how their work contributed to the organization’s mission.
Buck-I-Serv students pack medically tailored meals for neighbors in need
First-year student Chris Fakult shared how impactful it was to volunteer with people who were deeply passionate about their work. “Everybody was excited to show us the ropes and happy to see us here,” he said. “Knowing the mission makes it feel even better. We know the meals we’re helping prepare can have a real impact on someone’s life.”
Food & Friends’ focus on medically tailored meals resonated strongly with students, particularly those interested in health care or those with personal connections to the mission. Anne Weber, who has seen family members navigate serious health challenges, described the week as deeply fulfilling. “Knowing I’m doing something that could help people like my grandparents feels really good,” she said. “If I had to sum up the week in one word, it would be fulfilling.”
Buck-I-SERV pack medically tailored groceries for neighbors in need
Student volunteers also valued the connections they built with one another. Coming from a large university with countless majors and colleges, Buck-I-SERV created a unique space for students studying everything from mechanical and aerospace engineering to social work, neuroscience, and health sciences to work side by side. “We’re all so different academically, but we’re here for the same reason,” one student shared. “That makes it really special.”
Beyond the tangible service, students spoke about how the experience encouraged mindfulness, reflection, and community engagement, core goals of the Buck-I-SERV program. Whether motivated by a desire to serve, an interest in medicine, or the opportunity to explore a new city, students left Food & Friends with a stronger understanding of how service, food, and compassion intersect.
By the end of the week, one thing was clear: the partnership between Buck-I-SERV and Food & Friends not only supported an essential mission, but also left a lasting impact on the Buckeyes who gave their time and energy.
If you’re a part of school group and would like to volunteer with Food & Friends, visit https://foodandfriends.org/volunteer/volunteer-with-us/ to see how you can give back to neighbors in need.