Asbury University student-athletes demonstrated servant leadership and compassion this week by distributing water, snacks, and encouragement to individuals experiencing homelessness in downtown Lexington.
With temperatures reaching dangerous levels, the group gathered in Triangle Park to support the city’s Phase One heat relief efforts. Carrying coolers filled with bottled water and bags of granola bars, the students also offered conversation and prayer, reminding each person they encountered of their dignity and worth in Christ.
“Today, we’re just taking a little field trip to get closer as a team and closer to the community,” said Asbury athlete Taylor Greenburg. “We know how important it is to stay hydrated when it’s this hot, and we also wanted to bring hope to those who might need to hear the Gospel or simply feel the hand of Jesus through a simple act of care.”
The initiative reflected Asbury’s commitment to holistic education where athletic training, academic formation, and spiritual growth unite with service to others. For these student-athletes, the outreach was an opportunity to live out their faith beyond the classroom and athletic fields.
“We’ve been praying with each person and trying to encourage them with the truth and gospel of Jesus,” said teammate Emma Greenwell. “We just want to love people with His love, to be kingdom workers, and to help build community.”
While the service effort was directed outward to meet immediate needs, it also helped strengthen the bonds of a team just beginning its season. New and returning players alike joined together in the mission, embodying Asbury’s call to servant leadership.
“It felt natural,” Greenwell added. “Because it’s so hot, it opened the door to connect with people. A simple, ‘Would you like some water?’ led to meaningful conversations and moments of prayer.”
Asbury’s student-athletes often participate in service opportunities both locally and abroad, living into the University’s mission of equipping students for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and service. This particular outreach highlighted how even simple acts can reflect Christ’s love in tangible ways.
Asbury Athletics features 16 NCAA Division III intercollegiate teams, as well as cheerleading and club sports. AU competes as a member of the Collegiate Conference of the South (CCS) and also is a member of the National Christian College Athletics Association (NCCAA).
In the 2024-25 school year, Asbury Athletics earned five conference championships (CCS), two NCCAA region championships, 54 NCCAA Scholar-Athletes, four NCCAA All-Americans, the first-ever NCAA National Championship Qualifier, two NCCAA Individual National Champions, eight Conference Player of the Year awards (CCS), AVCA Region 6 Freshman of the Year, 43 All-Conference student-athletes (CCS), and four conference coach of the year awards (CCS). Learn more.