Alex Gallo, Communications & Political Science

What is your most memorable service experience?
My most memorable service experience at Fresno State was participating in Alternative Spring Break my freshman year, as it was my first introduction to service. We volunteered four days at the Ronald McDonalds House Charities of the Central Valley where I learned that the families were staying at the house in order to be near their child/loved one who was hospitalized at Valley Children’s Hospital. Through this difficult time, we were able to help and make their lives easier by providing meals, doing chores around the house, doing arts and crafts with the children at the house, and even planning an Easter egg hunt and movie night. This service was memorable to me because of one family in particular.

I remember meeting one father who told me that he always took the extra step to get his children involved and bring a smile to their face, despite everything they were going through.

Where did you serve?
I served at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Central Valley in Madera, CA.

What did you learn?
I learned that even through difficult times, one should always find positivity to help guide you.

What impact did you make?
I was able to give families (hopefully) the opportunity to step away from their situation and give them one less thing to worry about. I would like to think that I made their transition at the house easier.