In the fall of 2022, Maxemus Calzadilla embarked on a journey that would profoundly shape his understanding of community service and healthcare through his involvement with Community Action Volunteers in Education (CAVE). Over the course of a year, he went above and beyond, dedicating over 250 hours to the Torres Shelter, a service-enhanced shelter that serves individuals 18 and older experiencing homelessness. His role was routine, but at its core, it was about fostering a safe, welcoming environment where dignity and respect prevailed.
Calzadilla’s motivation to join CAVE stemmed from a desire to make a tangible difference in his community while also preparing for a career in healthcare. He wanted to understand the backgrounds and struggles of marginalized groups, knowing that empathy and awareness are crucial for effective patient care. CAVE’s mission of serving community needs and diverse populations resonated with him. The opportunity provided him a platform to connect with diverse individuals and gain practical experience in community service, all of which align with his career aspirations and personal values.
As a volunteer in the Torres Shelter program, Calzadilla’s responsibilities ranged from doing laundry and cleaning shared spaces to organizing and distributing over-the-counter medications. While these tasks may seem mundane, he quickly learned their significance in maintaining a safe, clean and welcoming environment for the residents. His work was not just about ticking off tasks; it was about ensuring that every person felt cared for and respected. Calzadilla says, “This work required consistency, adaptability, and an understanding of how even small contributions can significantly impact someone’s quality of life.”
Through this consistent commitment, he built strong relationships with both residents and staff, gaining deeper insights into the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Calzadilla’s CAVE experience was the opportunity to forge meaningful connections with the residents at the Torres Shelter. Beyond routine tasks, he valued the moments spent sharing experiences and listening to their stories—each one filled with resilience, struggles, and hopes. These interactions opened his eyes to the importance of human connection in service, reinforcing the notion that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity.
Calzadilla also learned invaluable lessons in empathy, patience, and the significance of providing support with an open heart. These experiences have influenced his academic and career aspirations and strengthened his commitment to serve underserved communities in healthcare.
Recently, Calzadilla received the Ron Rohde Award which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to their community. CAVE Program Director, Katey VonMosch says, “His dedication to fostering a sense of community and belonging truly embodies the spirit of CAVE and the Ron Rohde award.” The recognition was both humbling and validating, reaffirming the hard work and dedication he invested in his role with CAVE. This award is a testament to the power of small, consistent acts of service and reminds him that genuine care can lead to real change. As he looks toward a future in nursing, he is motivated to bring this spirit of advocacy to rural communities that face resource shortages.
Calzadilla’s involvement with CAVE has been a defining aspect of his college experience, solidifying his dedication to nursing and desire to serve underrepresented communities. The skills he developed—empathy, adaptability, and resilience—have influenced both his academic and career pursuits, inspiring him to continue to address health disparities and promote equity.
As he continues on his path, he is driven by a sense of duty to advocate for those who may feel voiceless, just as he did for the residents at the shelter. CAVE has shown him that as a healthcare provider, he can create a lasting impact by approaching every individual with understanding, patience, and a commitment to equity.
In reflecting on his journey with CAVE, Calzadilla is grateful for the experiences that have shaped his perspective on community service and healthcare. The connections he has built and the lessons he has learned will guide him as he strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of his future patients.
CAVE’s mission is to serve a broad base of community needs through meaningful volunteer opportunities and the development of student leaders. CAVE partners with local non-profit agencies to provide semester-long volunteer programs and one-time opportunities. Volunteer applications for Spring 2025 will open on Monday, January 13th.
Community Action Volunteers in Education (CAVE) is a program of the Associated Students. For more information about CAVE or the AS, please visit our website at as.csuchico.edu or on social media @chicostateCAVE on Instagram and Facebook, and @aschicostate on TikTok and YouTube. Too many emails? Sign up for text notifications here.
