WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Polk State College is launching a new initiative aimed at strengthening community service, student leadership and civic engagement throughout Polk County.
The initiative, called Pursuing Purpose, is designed to expand volunteer opportunities for students while fostering leadership development and deeper community connections.
College leaders say the campaign supports President Anastasios Kamoutsas’ vision for the institution, which focuses on workforce education, student success and the development of responsible citizens.
“I always stress to our students that they should pursue purpose, not a paycheck,” Kamoutsas said in a statement. “We are committed to helping students find meaning and value in what they do every day and in the careers they will pursue through the educational and workforce training pathways at our College.”
As part of the initiative, Polk State will introduce a new mobile application that allows students to find volunteer opportunities, track service hours and submit participation records for verification.
The platform will feature upcoming events and ongoing service-learning opportunities both on campus and throughout the community.
The college also is launching a peer mentoring program that will recruit, train and support student leaders who will help incoming students navigate campus life, build connections and achieve academic success.
Recruitment and interviews for peer mentors are scheduled for January and February 2027. Selected students will be recognized in March and participate in a Peer Mentor Leadership Training Institute in April.
To mark the launch of Pursuing Purpose, Polk State’s Student Activities and Leadership Office has created 10 new service opportunities that will be offered throughout the academic year. Programs will include campus beautification projects, an annual week of service and holiday outreach initiatives.
The college also is partnering with organizations including HopeKids Central Florida, VISTE, Reading Pals and Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County.
Through those efforts, students will assist local families, support older adults, encourage childhood literacy and contribute to affordable housing projects.
Students also will have opportunities to participate in service-related activities during Kamoutsas’ inauguration week, scheduled for Feb. 22-26.
Events will include a day of community service and the Polk State College Foundation’s annual fundraising event, A Night of Purpose, on Feb. 25. Proceeds from the event will support student scholarships.
“It is important to me that our students get involved in our College traditions while serving our greater community,” Kamoutsas said. “There is no better way to recognize Polk State’s vital role in our community and celebrate our donors, supporters and most importantly our students, than by giving back to our community.”
College officials say the Pursuing Purpose initiative is intended to strengthen campus culture, improve first-year student success, develop leadership skills and encourage long-term community engagement.
About Polk State
Polk State College is the largest provider of higher education and workforce training in Polk County, serving more than 14,000 students annually in bachelor’s and associate degree programs. The college also provides certificate and workforce training opportunities for approximately 9,000 individuals each year and operates three charter high schools.
The institution offers instruction across eight locations and provides a variety of in-person and online learning options, along with student organizations, athletics and fine arts programs.
For more information visit polk.edu
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