By Zach Brooks, Staff Writer
Rachel Farbman ’25 working with Big Brothers, Big Sisters (Photo provided).
Rachel Farbman ’25 is a health sciences and public policy double major with a minor in Italian studies, and a student with a passion for volunteerism and helping those in her community.
Farbman grew up volunteering in her local community, which led her in high school to become a founding member of the board of directors for Kids to Kids, a 501(c) non-profit that “mentors special needs kids in all facets of their lives.” Farbman currently serves on the board of trustees for the organization.
Farbman took on an active leadership role at Kids to Kids and used her decade-long love of swimming to give swimming lessons to mentees in the program.
With her strong civic engagement background and desire to give back to the community, Farbman knew when choosing to attend Gettysburg College that volunteering would play a large role in her time here as a student.
“When picking a college to attend, I wanted more opportunities that went beyond just being an academic student. I knew going into the Center for Public Service (CPS) would play a huge role in my college career,” Farbman said.
Before her first year at Gettysburg, Farbman connected with CPS and Program Coordinator Nicole Cesanek ’23 through the Casa de la Cultura swimming program, where Farbman led a beginner group and other swimming lessons.
“Service is a two-way street, and my experiences volunteering has shaped the way I view the world,” Farbman said about her time as a volunteer.
Going into her sophomore year, Farbman was offered the opportunity to take on a program coordinator role in CPS working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of York & Adams Counties (BBBS). Farbman shared that she always wanted to work with BBBS.
In this role Farbman’s job is to recruit volunteers and assist with the paperwork and training required to become a BBBS mentor to a student at Vida Charter School.
“You’ll directly impact someone’s life and learn so much about your own life,” said Farbman.
Farbman explained that students who sign up for the opportunity to volunteer with BBBS will work with their buddy for an hour and a half per week for an entire school year in order to build a relationship with them.
“When you volunteer and get to know another aspect of the community, it will benefit you most.” said Farbman.
Farbman shared that BBBS is hosting their annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake fundraiser on Feb. 17 that students can attend to begin their engagement with the program.
Students who wish to learn more about CPS’s partnership with BBBS and opportunities to volunteer can email bbbs@gettysburg.edu and follow CPS on Instagram @centerforpublicservice.
February 7, 2023
Rachel is awesome!! She is so passionate about her work with children. She’s an inspiration.