At Arizona Christian University, service isn’t just something students do—it’s an extension of who they are. Every semester, ACU students step beyond the classroom to serve the community, meeting real needs while growing in their faith. What begins as a service opportunity often turns into a chance for students to share the gospel through both word and action.
Community Partnerships That Matter
Across the Valley, ACU students partner with local organizations that make a tangible difference. At Phoenix Rescue Mission, students share meals and hope with individuals experiencing homelessness. Others join the fight against hunger through St. Mary’s Food Bank, Arizona’s largest food distribution network. Education majors and mentors spend time in local schools tutoring and inspiring young minds. Some of our students support families in crisis through Choices Pregnancy Center, offering practical help and Christlike compassion.
Hundreds of ACU students also serve weekly in churches across the Valley. Some lead children’s ministries, while others invest in youth groups, assist with worship, manage sound and lighting, or teach Sunday school classes. Many are trusted to lead small groups or share devotionals, gaining hands-on ministry experience while strengthening their own faith. Their service multiplies ACU’s mission to prepare Christian leaders who will transform culture with biblical truth.
Each partnership isn’t just a line on a resume—it’s a story of transformation. Students see firsthand what it means to love their neighbors and often discover new callings along the way.
Serving Starts at Home
Service at ACU begins right on campus. Life Group leaders guide weekly Bible studies, building community and accountability among their peers. The Chapel Worship Team leads the campus in praise each week, using their musical gifts to create a space for worship and reflection. Residence hall ministries foster spiritual growth right where students live, while prayer teams regularly intercede for the campus, the nation, and the world.
Service opportunities show up all year long as part of living in community with each other—helping new students move in, setting up for chapel, or volunteering at Campus Activities Board events. These moments remind students that ministry doesn’t always happen on a stage; sometimes it happens in the simple, unseen acts of service that shape a community.
Reaching the Community from Campus
ACU’s influence extends well beyond its own walls. The University frequently opens its campus to host major community events that give students the chance to serve right where they study. Dozens of students volunteer each year for the Stand Up for Veterans event, assisting those who’ve served our country. Others helped facilitate Franklin Graham training sessions and statewide homeschool speech and debate competitions. These events bring together faith, leadership, and outreach—showing students what it means to serve both the local and global church.
The 22 & 2 Journey
Spiritual formation at ACU follows a rhythm called 22 & 2. Each semester, full-time students must attend at least 22 of 30 chapel services and complete two service projects. The goal isn’t to add to a checklist but to cultivate consistency in worship and service. For most students, serving is already second nature. For those still exploring opportunities, ACU makes it easy—weekly emails go out with updated ways to get involved both on and off campus.
Stories of Impact
Ask ACU students about their service experiences, and you’ll hear stories filled with gratitude and growth.
“I am a Youth Leader at Reclaim Church,” said Skyla, a sophomore majoring in Business Administration. “I enjoy being a light for the kids and helping them find their spiritual footing.”
Keplan, a freshman, shared how serving at a veterans’ event changed his perspective. “I drove veterans to and from the event center and helped with cleanup. Hearing their stories made me so grateful for everything they’ve done for our country.”
David, a junior, found purpose in a simple act of generosity. “I donated shirts to a clothing drive for students who need clothes for job interviews. I learned that giving away what I don’t need can be a blessing to others.”
Cameron, also a junior, volunteered at a cat adoption event. “You never know what someone is going through,” he said. “That cat might be exactly what they need. It reminded me that small acts of service still have great meaning.”
And for Savastian, a freshman on the men’s soccer team, serving at a food bank was eye-opening. “We helped pack food boxes. It was cool to see what goes on behind the scenes to feed people in need. I’d never done something like that before—and I really enjoyed it.”
The Heart of ACU Service
These stories capture the heart of what it means to serve at Arizona Christian University. Service isn’t a short-term project—it’s a lifelong calling. Whether on campus, in the city, or across the world, ACU students live out what it means to Transform Culture with Truth.
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