Crossover’s Independent Study Program: A Lesson in Service and Community

Crossover’s commitment to character development and broader life experiences extends beyond the classroom and athletic field. Our Independent Study Program student athletes have embraced the opportunity to give back to the community by volunteering at Our Father’s Table Soup Kitchen, an organization that has been serving hot meals to the residents of Gifford since 1988.

Our Father’s Table serves approximately 40-50 people daily in person and delivers hot meals to many more. During our visit, our students were eager to help and quickly got to work. Vittorio took on the task of cleaning trays, while PJ and Christian poured and served iced tea and water. Euton joined the food line, adding cornbread to each tray. The experience also brought unexpected connections—Euton and Christian recognized familiar faces from the community.

The impact of the day was profound. As we returned to Crossover, Vittorio summed up the sentiment of the group: “Wow—now I get why you want to do this; it makes you feel good to help people.” This experience not only reinforced the importance of service but also highlighted the difference our students can make in the lives of others.

At Crossover, we believe in teaching our student-athletes the value of giving back and understanding the broader world around them. This experience at Our Father’s Table was a powerful reminder of the importance of community and the joy that comes from serving others.