Students of Service (SOS) develops young leaders who have a global perspective to solve local problems. Their programs combine meaningful local community service with informed international experiences. By connecting global experiences to local impact, they empower young people to not only envision change, but to actively create it, fostering a generation of leaders who are informed, engaged, and committed to making a lasting difference.
This is how their mission comes to life through the voices of students. Marlene Chavez-Lua shared what started as uncertainty her freshman year, questioning where she fit and whether she could make a difference. Through SOS, she evolved into confidence through simply showing up and staying consistent. Marlene had the opportunity to experience connections beyond her own community during her visit to Gwangju, South Korea. While hosting students, she brought them into a familiar tradition- Halloween, where “laughter filled in the gaps” despite language barriers.
Marlene’s story reflects the heart of SOS. Where they believe leadership is built through action, and that meaningful change starts when students are given the opportunity to step outside of their comfort zones and into real-world experiences. Whether it’s volunteering locally or building relationships across cultures, their students learn how to lead with empathy, confidence, and intention. Her experience is just one example of how SOS empowers students to not only serve, but to see their place in a larger, more connected world, and to recognize that they have the ability to shape it.
Learn more about Students of Service here.