Villanova’s 2026 Day of Service: Over 4,000 Volunteers Unite

Thousands Unite for Villanova’s St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service

VILLANOVA, Pa. (August 25, 2026)— On September 19, Villanova University will witness an extraordinary gathering as over 4,000 individuals including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends, participate in the 2026 St. Thomas of Villanova Day of Service. This significant event, named after the University’s patron, a revered 16th-century Augustinian bishop known for his dedication to helping the disadvantaged, stands as one of the largest one-day service efforts in the Delaware Valley.

Participants will engage in volunteer activities at more than 100 locations spread throughout the Greater Philadelphia area. Their efforts will support a diverse range of charitable organizations, impacting food pantries, community farms, local schools, and care facilities, among others. Collectively, these volunteers will contribute thousands of hours of service, embodying the spirit of community and solidarity.

“Service is at the heart of what it means to be a Villanovan,” stated University President the Rev. Peter M. Donohue, OSA, PhD. “By coming together to serve our neighbors, we honor the example of St. Thomas of Villanova and put our Augustinian values into action. The Day of Service is a powerful reminder that when we work together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and strengthen the communities we call home.”

The Day of Service is not just a standalone event but part of a broader commitment to service that Villanova University fosters throughout the year. Each semester, the university community actively engages in various outreach programs, mentoring initiatives, service trips, and Habitat for Humanity projects, accumulating nearly 250,000 hours of service annually.

Organized by the Day of Service Committee, which includes Villanova students, faculty, and staff, this initiative highlights the ongoing dedication of Villanovans to making a positive impact locally and globally. For those interested in learning more about the event or looking to get involved, additional information can be found on the Day of Service event page.