Every year, Suffolk University’s S.O.U.L.S. holds a Service Day in which students from the school come together to serve their community through a variety of different projects, said senior Morgan Byrnes.

This year, was the 17th annual Service Day and it was quite the success, according to participants. Students have volunteered at organizations including Cradles to Crayons, Boston Health Care for the Homeless, Boston Rescue Mission, Casa Nueva Vida and Community Servings.

Last year, over 200 Suffolk students worked throughout the day and evening for a cause. On Friday, S.O.U.L.S. held their annual Service Day. Exact numbers on attendees were not yet available, but it was estimated that about 200 participated again.

“The Center for Community Engagement puts together an annual service day because it strengthens Suffolk through ideals such as community engagement, service and educating members of this institution on the various social issues that affect the Boston community,” Byrnes said.

Senior Michael Guay prepped and served food for people who are HIV/AIDS positive at the organization Boston Living Center on Service Day.

“Service Day was a great opportunity to get Suffolk students out in our local community and help great organizations,” Guay said. “You can think and talk all you want about giving back to their community, but when you see students devoting their day to put thoughts into action, going out and serving food or what have you, it shows Suffolk students care about their community, the city of Boston, and the issues people face.”

The theme this year: “It is an act of justice.”

“We chose the theme this year based on a quote by the late Nelson Mandela that relates to the work that the center does,” said Byrnes. “The center does not engage students with charity. The center engages students in different activities that push against injustice. For example, providing health care for people who are homeless is not an act of charity. All people have the right to decent health care.”

For anyone looking to participate in Service Day, or to volunteer in general, contact the Center for Community Engagement in the Donahue building in room 209 or e-mail [email protected].