As members of the Elon University Los Angeles program, the students are encouraged to see themselves not just as visitors, but as active participants in the community's efforts to support those in need.
Elon University Los Angeles students participated in a meaningful service day with the Hollywood Food Coalition. This collaboration allowed students to give back to the community and engage with the coalition’s broader mission of combating food insecurity in Los Angeles.
Students dove into their tasks of making sandwiches, packaging sweet treats and assembling lunch bags. Their volunteer efforts resulted in distributing an impressive 2,100 lunch bags on Sunday afternoon.
The day of service provided a valuable opportunity for students to see the importance of community involvement and how small acts of service can make a substantial impact. As members of the Elon University Los Angeles program, the students are encouraged to see themselves not just as visitors but as active participants in the community’s efforts to support those in need.
“Picturing the smiling faces on those who we helped made my day a lot brighter and made me feel more fulfilled in my time here in Los Angeles,” said Braxton Mayhew ’26.
The students created an efficient assembly line, becoming a well-oiled machine by the end of their shift. Beyond meal preparation, the students assisted with distributing the packed meals to different foundations. This involved helping with pre-arranged meal pick-ups every 15 to 30 minutes.
“Being able to give back to a community across the country from where I live is an experience I’ll never forget.” said student Seamus Lappin’ 26
“It was a wonderful opportunity to engage with the Elon University Los Angeles program while also supporting my new local community in Hollywood,” said alumna Michaela Zussmann ’23, who volunteered with the students. “I look forward to finding more impactful ways to contribute, not only within the local community but also to the Elon University Los Angeles program.”
Zusmann’s continued involvement in local service highlights the importance of remaining engaged with the community, even after graduation.
The Hollywood Food Coalition has been serving the Los Angeles community for over 30 years with a mission to reduce food insecurity. HFC provides daily meals to individuals experiencing homelessness, low-income families and other vulnerable populations. In addition to meal services, the coalition offers case management, hygiene kits and connections to essential resources to help individuals rebuild their lives.
For more than 16 years, Elon University has offered specialized, career-focused and immersive academic programming and internship opportunities for students in domestic National Campus locations. Enrollment for the Elon University Los Angeles summer 2025 program is now open. Visit the Los Angeles National Campus site for information.