Every community service project has the power to transform not only the places we serve but also the people who take part in it. At Cumorah Academy, service is not just an activity—it’s a principle we live by. Recently, our students had the privilege of participating in a meaningful service experience in the city of Olomouc, and the lessons they learned will stay with them for years to come.
Why Every Place Matters
Think for a moment about a park in your city.
Maybe it’s the place where you walk with your family, enjoy a picnic, or sit under the trees with friends. Parks and public spaces are more than patches of land—they are the heart of a community. They bring together families, couples, children, and individuals, offering a moment of peace and connection with nature.
However, imagine if that special place became inaccessible.
Perhaps because it was not cleaned, or because people stopped caring for it. The atmosphere of comfort and belonging would quickly fade. Therefore, caring for public spaces is not only about cleanliness—it is about preserving the soul of a community.
It was exactly this feeling that inspired our students to dedicate their time and energy to a community service project in Olomouc.
Preparing for a Day of Service
On Saturday, September 13th, students from Cumorah Academy joined the Wallace Toronta Foundation and local partners in a meaningful initiative: cleaning and restoring a city park in Olomouc.
The Wallace Toronta Foundation was officially established in 2003 with the goal of organizing service projects throughout the Czech and Slovak Republics. Since its founding, the organization has led numerous impactful projects that have strengthened communities and built lasting connections among people.
The Foundation honors the legacy of Wallace F. Toronto, a pioneering missionary of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who served among the Slavic people. He led his mission during times of great difficulty, including war and political unrest, when serving others was especially challenging. Inspired by his dedication and compassion, the Toronto family, together with former Czech and Slovak missionaries, mission presidents, and friends of the region, formally established the Wallace F. Toronto Foundation in March 2003.
The day began early—very early. Students woke up at 4 a.m., showing their willingness to sacrifice comfort for the chance to serve. By 5 a.m., they were on the road, and by 8 a.m., they arrived at the park, ready for action.
Upon arrival, students received their tools:
- Gloves
- Brooms
- Bags
- And other cleaning materials
The mission was clear: restore the beauty of the park by removing branches, garbage, and debris.
Serving Through Challenges
Like many good stories, this community service project came with its own set of challenges. As students began working, rain started pouring down. Yet instead of letting the weather discourage them, they pressed forward with grit and determination.
Working side by side, they cleaned benches, mopped the floors, gathered trash, and restored the park to its welcoming atmosphere. Despite being soaked, their energy did not diminish. By 11 a.m., the work was complete.
The Power of Gratitude
When the students finished their service, they were greeted with warm hospitality. Local Church members brought hot soup and fruit, which was especially comforting under the rainy conditions.
Moreover, community members took a moment to express their gratitude. They shared a heartfelt message on the importance of service, highlighting the value of working together for the greater good. Students’ resilience and efforts were publicly recognized, proving that even small acts of service can make a profound impact.
During the project, an unexpected surprise arrived: the mayor of Olomouc appeared in person. As a gesture of gratitude, he invited all the students and volunteers to visit the city’s botanical garden free of charge. This simple but generous act was the perfect ending to a memorable day.
Voices of Our Students
For many, this community service project was more than just a task—it was an experience that shaped their perspective. Students came from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, yet all found joy and meaning in serving together.
In fact, more than 200 people were present, working on different sites, from youth to kids and missionaries, all working side by side with the same purpose. Due to the big size, it required organization and clear communication.
The effectiveness of the teamwork was astounding! Milan Dynka, who is one of the Project Organizers of the Foundation, was rather surprised by the project:
“We were able to finish in less time than planned! Seeing people from different countries helping was very satisfying!”
The reason for this project? Love. Love for God and our fellow brothers, as Hana Snajdarová mentioned. Also one of the Project Organizers, she emphasized the importance of demonstrating love as we serve. In fact, it is rooted in Christ’s most precious teachings:
“Every time we organize a service project, we just want to serve others so they can feel touched by our faith and actions.”
Along with them, our students were among the most affected by the project. In fact, what type of school encourages community service like Cumorah Academy? Reflecting on their experience, they shared how impactful it had been for them.
Mariana Lopes, from Brazil, shared:
“I felt very grateful that I could help everyone. We did a great job!”
Rocio Rios, from Argentina, reflected:
“It was amazing! I felt a strong spirit for helping others!”
Pedro Gonçalves, also from Brazil, said:
“We got to meet each other. We had fun together!”
These voices reflect the spirit of Cumorah Academy: unity, gratitude, and joy in service.
Why Service Shapes Leaders
This event was not just about cleaning a park—it was about building character. At Cumorah Academy, we believe that leadership is not formed in classrooms alone but through real-world experiences. When young adults participate in a community service project, they learn resilience, empathy, teamwork, and responsibility.
Consequently, starting a semester with service is more than symbolic—it sets the tone for the months ahead. Students are reminded that being a giver is more rewarding than being a receiver. They learn that leadership begins by lifting others.
In addition, service breaks barriers. People from across the globe—Brazil, Argentina, the Czech Republic, and beyond—came together for one purpose. The park in Olomouc became more than just a physical space; it became a symbol of what can happen when individuals unite for good.
Lessons Learned from Olomouc
Looking back, there are several key lessons our students took away from this service experience:
- Small actions create lasting impact. Cleaning a park may seem simple, yet for the families and individuals who will enjoy it, the difference is immeasurable.
- Resilience makes service meaningful. Working in the rain tested students’ commitment. By persevering, they proved that true service isn’t about convenience—it’s about dedication.
- Community bonds grow stronger through service. Sharing soup, listening to words of encouragement, and receiving the mayor’s gratitude turned this effort into a celebration of community.
- Service builds lifelong friendships. Students met one another in a new light—working side by side, laughing, and supporting one another.
These lessons are not limited to Olomouc. They can be carried into every aspect of life, reminding us that wherever we are, we can make a difference.
Why Young Adults Should Join a Community Service Project
For young adults, opportunities like this go beyond the immediate act of cleaning or helping. They build the foundation for future leadership. When you join a community service project, you learn how to collaborate, adapt to challenges, and lead with empathy.
Moreover, service teaches gratitude. By stepping outside of your comfort zone and dedicating time to others, you begin to see your own life with clearer perspective.
And perhaps most importantly, you discover joy. The laughter, teamwork, and sense of accomplishment that come from giving will always outweigh the discomforts of early mornings or rainy weather.
Final Thoughts: Every Place Has a Story
Every park, every street, every neighborhood has a story. By participating in a community service project, you become part of that story. The students of Cumorah Academy discovered that when you put your shoulders to the wheel and serve, you don’t just transform a place—you transform yourself.
Do you want to have experiences like our students had in Olomouc?
Then serve. Look around you. Find a need in your neighborhood, and step in to make a difference.
At Cumorah Academy, we believe in shaping young adults who lead through service, compassion, and action. Join us, and discover how you, too, can create stories of change that inspire the world.
Are you ready to grow through service? Apply now to join Cumorah Academy and be part of a global community dedicated to making a difference.
Written by Fernando L. Ferreira Jr.
Supervision by Kamila Uberto Fullmer
