SERVE

The Big Event - formerly Bobcat Build - was started in 2003 as a way to say “Thank You” to the San Marcos community.  It has now turned into a Texas State University tradition and serves as the largest service project on campus. Every spring semester, students volunteer their time to complete various service projects throughout the community such as landscaping, painting, or clean-ups at residents’ homes, local schools, parks, churches, and neighborhoods. 

Bobcat Break, Texas State University's Alternative Break program, is an experiential opportunity for students to travel, explore various social issues impacting different communities, and understand their relationship to the global community through education, reflection, and direct service. These all-inclusive, short-term service trips are perfect for those seeking to be challenged, empowered and create impact.

Find a volunteer opportunity that's right for you! Leadership and Service provides opportunities for students to give back to the Texas State and San Marcos community given by local non-profit organizations and other community outreach programs. Texas State students, staff, and faculty are also able to submit and track their service hours through the Bobcat Organization Hub. View our page to find current service opportunities.

The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes and supports community-committed students who are changemakers and public problem-solvers at Campus Compact member institutions. Fellows are nominated by their president or chancellor on the basis of their potential for public leadership.

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides students with training and resources that nurture their assets and passions and help them develop strategies for social change. The yearlong program, named for Campus Compact founder Frank Newman, includes virtual learning opportunities and networking as part of a national network of engaged student leaders and an optional in-person convening.

The Nonprofit and Volunteer Fair is an opportunity to provide Texas State University students with volunteer opportunities in and around San Marcos, potential career pathways into the nonprofit sector, or resources that could aid their experiences while at Texas State. Our goal for this fair is to connect students with community partners to discover new pathways for community engagement while at and beyond Texas State University.

Service Saturdays are one-day service projects that are planned throughout the academic year by the Leadership and Service team or the university. Taking place every month, students can sign up to participate in one of our Service Saturdays to engage in meaningful projects that benefit students and the communities we serve.