Community service is at the heart of what we do, extending beyond healthcare to initiatives that create a lasting impact. Members of the Beta Xi at-Large Chapter recently took part in Delaware’s annual beach grass planting event and demonstrated how even a small group of dedicated volunteers can make a meaningful difference.
Can you set the scene for us? What did the day look like?
It was a cool, cloudy Saturday morning as volunteers gathered at the North Indian River Inlet at the Delaware State Park Beach, ready to participate in the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) annual beach grass planting event. Though our Beta Xi at-Large Chapter had a small but dedicated group of volunteers, they played an essential role in the larger restoration effort. Working alongside DNREC representatives and other community groups, our members carefully planted dune grass to help stabilize the dunes and protect the shoreline from erosion. Conversations flowed as volunteers worked side by side, reinforcing connections while contributing to an important environmental cause. The event was productive and fulfilling, aligning with our chapter’s ongoing commitment to community service and environmental health.
What inspired your chapter to organize this beach restoration event?
Our chapter believes in the power of service, not only within healthcare but also in environmental stewardship. The idea for this event stemmed from our desire to give back to the community in a way that promotes health and community beyond hospital walls. Healthy coastal ecosystems provide environmental and public health benefits, from improved air quality to storm protection. Partnering with DNREC for the beach grass planting event allowed us to contribute to a long-standing statewide effort while leveraging the event logistics already in place. This opportunity enabled us to participate in a larger environmental initiative while working alongside other dedicated community groups.
How do you think volunteer activities like this strengthen the chapter and its members?
Volunteering fosters connection—both with each other and with the community we serve. Events like this build teamwork, strengthen bonds, and reinforce the values of leadership, compassion, and advocacy that define our chapter. Even with a small group, our impact was significant, proving that every effort counts. Members leave with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing their collective efforts contribute to something greater than themselves. The shared experience of service enhances professional relationships and personal fulfillment alike. This event builds on our chapter’s long-standing tradition of service, which includes initiatives such as supporting Special Olympics, collecting hygiene items for the Newark Empowerment Center, and sponsoring clients in the Upper Bay program each year by fulfilling their holiday wish lists. We know that service is a pillar of Sigma's mission and vision, and our chapter members are eager to provide love, courage, and honor to our community.
How do you encourage participation, especially among those who may not typically volunteer?
We emphasize the personal and professional rewards of service—networking, skill-building, and the joy of making a tangible impact. By creating a welcoming and fun environment, we invite members to engage at their own comfort level. We also offer flexible participation options and highlight the diverse ways members can contribute, whether through hands-on work, logistical support, or advocacy efforts. Sharing stories and testimonials from past volunteers helps spark interest and inspire new participants. Our service events are open to all members, as seen in our recent activities:
- Participated in the DNREC Beach Clean-up in Bowers Beach, Delaware, inviting all members to participate.
- Filled a plane for victims of Hurricane Helene—a humanitarian relief effort to fly needed items to victims of the devastating hurricane in Ashland, North Carolina. Beta Xi Chapter members generously contributed essential items, and the son of one of our members flew the items to North Carolina.
- Participated in the Upper Bay Holiday Party and Gift Giving—Members not only hosted a party by providing food, games, and prizes to nearly 40 clients, but also by donated holiday gifts for this vulnerable population.
What was the most rewarding part of the event for you and the participants?
Seeing the immediate impact of our work was incredibly rewarding—knowing that each plant placed in the sand would contribute to long-term coastal protection made the effort worthwhile. While our group was small, we were proud to be part of a larger initiative, demonstrating that even a handful of volunteers can make a meaningful difference. The teamwork, the knowledge gained, and the opportunity to contribute to both environmental and public health made this experience truly fulfilling.
Looking ahead: How to get involved
For members eager to join future initiatives, opportunities abound! Keep an eye on chapter communications for upcoming service projects. We encourage all members to bring their unique strengths to the table—whether through organizing, participating, or simply spreading the word.
Advice for other Sigma chapters
Start small, build partnerships, and find projects that align with your chapter’s mission. Service opportunities don’t have to be grand to be meaningful. Engage members by highlighting the impact of their efforts and fostering a culture where giving back is both accessible and rewarding. Also, do not forget to show appreciation to your volunteers! We are a volunteer organization, and without our members, we would not be able to do what we do. Together, we can make a lasting difference—one service project at a time.
Kelly Davis, EdD, MSN, RN, CNE, is a Nursing Instructional Director at Delaware Technical Community College. She is a member of Sigma's Beta Xi at-Large Chapter.
Jennifer Graber, EdD, APRN, PMHCNS-BC, is an Associate Professor, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Practice Initiatives in the School of Nursing at the University of Delaware, and a Faculty Fellow for the UDAchieve program on mentoring out of the Provost Office at the University of Delaware. She is the Regional Chapters Coordinating Committee Chair and a member of Sigma's Beta Xi at-Large and Xi Chapters.