TACOMA, Wash. - The Pacific Lutheran University athletic department continued its tradition of giving back to the local community on December 11, with over 30 Lute student-athletes participating in the annual Winterfest event at Rainier View Christian Church.
 
"I chose to participate because I've had more free time since football was over and wanted to do something positive with it," said football student-athlete Syi Campbell. 
 
"I think it's important to participate in things like this so the community as a whole feels a sense of belonging and support when they need it."

In what has been an annual tradition since 2012, members of the Lute Student-Athlete Advisory Committee helped organize the PLU athletic department's involvement in Winterfest in Tacoma. Over 30 student-athletes volunteered at the event that benefited local families in need from the nearby Franklin Pierce School District.
 
"My favorite part of this event was doing some walking and talking with the families while carrying the gifts. Getting to know some names and seeing all the kids just getting antsy for the holidays."
 
Winterfest is organized by the Parkland-Spanaway community and helps connect low income families with gifts and resources for the holidays. Children were given the chance to interact with the student-athlete volunteers, doing crafts, playing games, visiting with Santa, and picking out gifts for family members while their parents are given the opportunity to select gifts, coats, and other items for their children.
 
A total of eight sport programs participated at the event, including student-athletes from baseball, football, men's cross country and track & field, women's track & field, softball, women's rowing, and volleyball. 

The Winterfest volunteer project aligns with the athletic department's emphasis on community involvement and outreach with Lute athletic teams volunteering over 3,000 hours in the community annually.