The Duster Today

Media Credit: Lauren Sportsman OLAS a very service oriented group.

OLAS, Organization of Latin American Students, is not what it appears to be. Created in 2000 due to the growing population of Hispanics on the Lubbock Christian University campus (close to 13.7 percent of all students), OLAS has evolved into so much more. What began as an organization to promote Hispanic cultural awareness now reaches out to several cultures, while promoting individualism. Their mission statement reads, "The Organization of Latin American Students at Lubbock Christian University seeks to validate and empower students by providing a forum for service, fellowship, education and opportunities for leadership within LCU and the community."

Raul Sanchez, Jr., president of OLAS, comments, "We function a lot like BSA (Black Students Association). We try to get awareness out, but at the same time we exclude no one. We try to unite people and learn more about the Hispanic culture at the same time. We appreciate differences." This message is apparent in their club verse: "There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but the same God who works all of them in all men." - I Corinthians 12:4-6.

The members of OLAS do much more than promote awareness on campus. They've been involved in helping the Ronald McDonald House of Charities and campus cleanups, but Raul's favorite service project has a different feel. Several times a semester, the group will set up a literacy outreach booth at a local supermarket in order to reach those unable to read or write, no matter their race: "It's important to help people learn to read and write. It's a skill we all take for granted."

Does this sound like an organization you'd like to be involved in? OLAS meets in CDC Room 108 at 11:00 a.m. each Friday to discuss new service projects and ways to involve the campus. Often this includes a brief devotional and even free food!

Get involved! Use your spiritual gifts in a diverse setting to help LCU and the community. Don't let them go to waste!

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