IOLA — Student-athletes from the Allen Community College Baseball Team have stepped up to the plate in a new way this fall—by volunteering to read to children at Iola Elementary School. The initiative, which began as a community service partnership, has quickly grown into a meaningful tradition that connects the college with the local community.
“This fall our team began a new community service partnership with Iola Elementary,” said Trey Harris, ACC Head Baseball Coach. “I saw this as an opportunity that would allow our student-athletes to connect with the town in a meaningful way.”
Each week, between four and eight players volunteer, depending on their class schedules. By semester’s end, more than 40 student-athletes will have participated.
“The players enjoy it more than I ever expected,” Harris said. “Many have told me how much they like spending time with the kids and getting to know them. It has already gotten positive feedback from teachers and parents in the community.”
While some players initially joined to fulfill a 10-hour community service requirement, the impact has gone far beyond the hours logged.
“Iola needs more positive male role models, and this program gives our guys the chance to fill that role,” Harris explained. “Children are the future and having someone outside of their parents or teachers who listens to them and spends time with them really matters.”
The program also serves as a bridge between Allen Community College and the city of Iola.
“Baseball is one of the sports this town deeply cares about, and I saw this as a bridge opportunity, one that allows our program to connect directly with the youth and hopefully their families,” Harris said. “The more we invest in Iola the stronger the bond between the town and the college.”
For the student-athletes, the experience has been transformative.
“With the demanding fall schedule and the mental load that comes with being a student-athlete, starting the day with something positive and impactful is a win,” Harris said. “It humbles them, teaches servant leadership, and reminds them of the responsibility they carry when representing our program in the community.”
