March 26, 2025

Here to help! Ferris Student Government Association leaders looking for residents to assist as The Big Event returns

The BIG Event is returning and looking for volunteers for day of community service — Ferris State's Student Government is bringing back The BIG Event, a community wide service project for students. Organizers are looking for volunteers to assist efforts for the 2025 version of the event. This is a photo from 2023.

BIG RAPIDS, Mich. —

Ferris State University’s Student Government Association is looking for people to help!

President Stephen Bender said the organization is bringing back The Big Event, an opportunity for students to help local residents with raking, yard maintenance, and completing other outdoor tasks a homeowner cannot do on their own.

Bender said he’s got plenty of students who want to assist in the community service event. But he’s having trouble finding residents who might need a helping hand.

“The Big Event is a volunteering initiative aimed at bringing Ferris students and the community members of Big Rapids together,” Bender said. “Our volunteers are hoping to assist those who are either senior citizens or who have a disability that prevents them from performing their own yard work.”

The event is planned for Saturday, April 12.

Community members can ask to be placed on the service list by emailing their Big Rapids address within 10 miles from Ferris State University to [email protected] or by calling (231) 591-2611.

Students can sign up to participate as volunteers using the same email and phone number.

The Big Event started about 20 years ago and was paused last year. Bender said Student Government leaders believe there is a need in the community and want to give back.