Preparing to launch a new academic year, Knox College students on Sunday, September 14 explored and engaged with the Galesburg community by volunteering their time and taking tours to help them become better acquainted with the city.

Later in the day, the students joined other members of the Knox community, including faculty and staff, in the traditional Pumphandle ceremony where everyone greets everyone else by shaking hands, slapping high-fives, or hugging.

Students who performed community service volunteered at a variety of Galesburg organizations, including Discovery Depot Children's Museum, Purple Hanger, and the Galesburg Civic Art Center. Students who explored Galesburg could choose from various options, such as a bicycle tour, an arts and culture tour, and a tour of the Green Oaks Biological Field Station.

President Teresa Amott thanked students for taking the time to participate in the event -- either by volunteering to help others or by taking a tour to learn more "about your second home."

First-year student Paige McDaniel volunteered to pitch in with cleaning and organizing at Discovery Depot Children's Museum.

"I really like to help the community and make things better," said McDaniel, whose previous community service experience includes tutoring and serving community meals. "I feel there are things in a community that, if people don't step up and volunteer, they just won't get done."

Denise Bradburn, executive director of Discovery Depot, said the students' volunteer work is greatly appreciated.

Members of the men's and women's basketball teams volunteered at the Purple Hanger, a resale shop that donates all proceeds to the Safe Harbor Family Crisis Center in Galesburg. They sorted clothes, toys, books, and other donated items.

"We're so privileged to be able to go to Knox, get a great education, and play basketball at the same time," said Mitch Murphy, a senior on the men's basketball squad. "It's the right thing to do, to give back to the community."

"I feel it's a good bonding time with the team," said Summer Fujii, a first-year student and women's basketball player. "And it's fun to help out people."

After finishing the tours and community service projects, students gathered back on campus for Pumphandle. Pumphandle was followed by an all-campus picnic and the Carnival of Clubs.