IDS Hosts Volunteers for The Big Event at Southern Miss
Service, collaboration, and community impact were on full display as the Institute for Disability Studies (IDS) proudly participated as a host site for The Big Event, one of the largest annual traditions at The University of Southern Mississippi.
Held on Saturday, April 25, The Big Event brings together university students and community partners for a day dedicated to meaningful service across the Hattiesburg area. Organized through a partnership between the university’s Student Government Association and the Center for Community Engagement, the initiative connects students with local organizations to complete hands-on projects that strengthen community relationships while promoting civic engagement.
As an official service site, IDS welcomed student volunteers who contributed their time and energy to projects supporting individuals with disabilities, families, educators, and community partners.
Together, volunteers accomplished an impressive list of service activities, including:
* Assembling nearly 180 MSPTI resource bags for families of individuals with disabilities
* Creating Mother’s Day banners to brighten local nursing homes
* Preparing RISE To The Top! informational packets for families and educators
* Crafting bookmarks to be shared with the local library
Each project reflected IDS’s mission of empowering individuals with disabilities while strengthening connections across the community.
The Big Event is designed to give students an opportunity to make a meaningful difference while gaining valuable real-world experience. Participants engage directly with community organizations, build professional and leadership skills, and form connections with peers, faculty, and local partners.
For IDS, hosting volunteers represents more than a single day of service—it reinforces the organization’s commitment to collaboration and community inclusion.
“The energy and dedication of the volunteers truly made an impact,” IDS staff shared. “Every task completed helps extend resources, awareness, and encouragement to individuals and families we serve.”
Events like The Big Event highlight the powerful relationship between higher education and community service. By pairing student volunteers with organizations like IDS, the initiative fosters civic responsibility while meeting tangible community needs.
IDS extends sincere gratitude to every volunteer who contributed their time, compassion, and enthusiasm. Their efforts helped create resources, spread joy, and advance opportunities for individuals with disabilities throughout the region.
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