Panthers Volunteer to Build Beds for Owensboro Families

Kentucky Wesleyan College hosted its “build-a-bed” community service event on Saturday, August 22nd, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Jack T. Wells Activity Center. The initiative provides beds, linens, mattresses, and hygiene supplies to local elementary school students. This year marks KWC’s ninth year hosting the event, with an estimated 257 children served to date. This program is one of several initiatives KWC’s Office of Campus Ministries provides to the community.

“This is the second year we’ve hosted this service project during our First-Year Student Orientation week,” said Morgan Russelburg, Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students. “Beyond helping local families, the event gives KWC students a meaningful opportunity to connect with the Owensboro community while beginning to experience the college’s culture through hands-on service.”

Supported by community donations and grants from Engage Kentucky and Good Samaritan Ministries, the College is able to purchase all necessary supplies and tools to ensure the event’s success. Skilled volunteers also play a vital role, working alongside students to support safe construction practices and high-quality builds.

“The experience was super straightforward, fun, and easy to understand,” said incoming freshman Carriann Campbell, an Elementary Education major from Utica, KY. “I loved being able to know the beds built were going towards a good cause!”

This year’s event produced 20 beds, each of which will be distributed to elementary students who are identified by school counselors, ensuring that those with the greatest needs are served first while maintaining the confidentiality of each child and family.