When the Alabama School for the Deaf (ASD) first assembled the Maroon Crew, they had one simple challenge for their students: to give back to the community they call home during the school year.

Cliff Geffen, Adjustment Specialist at ASD, created Maroon Crew as a service organization where students could volunteer at on-campus athletic and residential events. From the concession stand at home football and basketball games to a Halloween party and an international dinner, students could give back to their school community in various ways.

“Community service is an invaluable experience for our students. It provides an opportunity for them to develop the skills needed to be successful in their future academics and careers,” said Jason Cox, Principal, ASD. “Whether they volunteer off-campus with our community partners or on-campus with our athletic and residential programs, these volunteer experiences provide students with the opportunity to learn the importance of time management, empathy and teamwork.”

Over the years, Maroon Crew added opportunities both on and off-campus for students to increase their involvement. Most recently, students had the opportunity to collaborate with the Talladega City School District to distribute food to families within the Talladega community.

“On behalf of the Parent Involvement Committee, we appreciate Mr. Cliff Geffen and the ASD students for volunteering at the Talladega City School Family Market,” said Diann Whitson, Ed.S., Parent Involvement Specialist, Talladega City Schools. “We are grateful for their willingness to give their time, energy and talents. These students worked tirelessly for the entire day. The support of the ASD organization allows us to continue fulfilling our mission and serve the students and families in our community every year.”

They also volunteered at Diaper Row, a community partnership between St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and Bundles of Hope Diaper Bank that distributes diapers and wipes to families in Talladega. “It takes a community of volunteers to make Diaper Row a reality,” said Lynn Sims, a member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. “And ASD’s Maroon Crew is an amazing group of young people who worked hard to make this ministry successful. I was thrilled to work with each of them and look forward to working with them again in the future.”

During the 2023-2024 school year, Maroon Crew consisted of 44 students who worked together to give back to their community with over 250 hours of service.