Bobcat Build’s Big Event’s 2,500 student, faculty, and staff volunteers extend a huge “Thank You” to their Hays County neighbors through their community service efforts, making them known as one of Texas State University’s most valued service traditions for 23 years.

RecognizeGood had the pleasure of attending their The Big Event this past Saturday March 28th, and getting to be a part of the Kick-Off ceremony! While in attendance, we presented our 61st Lighthouse Award to their Executive Team in Bobcat Build’s Big Event’s honor! Our Executive Director, Joel Coffman gave a brief speech then awarded them a $1,000 donation to help continue their incredible community impact. Read this amazing group’s full spotlight below:

Since its founding in 2003, members of Bobcat Build’s Big Event have been a pilar of the greater San Marcos area thanks to their large-scale volunteer engagement! Bringing together the entire Texas State campus with a shared mission of promoting gratitude, unity, and civic leadership, the organization works to uplift the community. The cherry on top? Their group is student ran – having 6-7 planning board and 30-50 committee members who are overseen by only one full-time professional staff member.

With more than two decades of giving back to the community, Bobcat Build’s Big Event does so through their primary activity called The Big Event. This occasion is an annual day of service that mobilizes thousands of the Texas State Bobcats, standing out as the organization’s most impactful and unifying tradition. There is a yearly call for job requests made out to residents, nonprofits, community organizations, schools, and churches, then the Planning Team schedules in-person site evaluations before selecting final job sites. Volunteers are encouraged to come prepared to work hard for up to four hours during the event, and the projects vary based on the needs of each location. Jobs may include beautification efforts such as washing windows, painting homes, gardening, other hands‑on tasks that improve community spaces, and they offer general assistance to Teacher Reuse and Southside Community Center!

Bobcat Build’s Big Event’s philanthropic support is rooted in service as opposed to monetary fundraising, which is what makes them stand out in the crowd. Instead, members provide value to the community by lending their helping hand. While they don’t provide monetary aid, the organization’s reported annual impact value is more than $165,000 based on the economic benefit of volunteerism during The Big Event alone! Their long-standing tradition, large volunteer base, and genuine commitment to meeting community needs make Bobcat Build’s Big Event a uniquely impactful and meaningful organization within Hays County. Everyone involved – from the planning and committee members to the thousands of Bobcats that show up ready to give their time volunteering share one commonality – a genuine love for their community.