About Us
The Big Event was established in 1982 at Texas A&M University by Joe Nussbaum, then-Vice President of the Student Government Association. It was designed as a one-day service project to allow students to show appreciation to the residents of Bryan and College Station. What began with just six students has since expanded into a national model for campus-community engagement, adopted by universities across the country.
In 2006, ASUN Student Government introduced The Big Event to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with the goal of hosting One Big Day to give One Big Thanks.
Over the past 20 years, the organization has grown into the university’s largest student-run service initiative. Each year, an student leaders coordinate logistics for more than hundreds volunteers, including students, faculty, and staff.
The Big Event focuses on saying "thank you" through service and outreach. Volunteers are matched with local residents and non-profit organizations to complete various tasks for our community.
Now marking its 20th anniversary, the organization remains entirely student-led and supported, maintaining its original mission of strengthening the tie between campus and our greater Lincoln community.
OUR MISSION
One Big Day. One Big Thanks.
Through service-oriented activities, The Big Event promotes campus and community unity as students come together for one day to express their gratitude for the support from the surrounding community.
A volunteer tosses a weed aside during UNL's first Big Event on April 8, 2006.
2006 - 2026
Celebrating 20 Years of The Big Event.
Join us on April 11, 2026.
Learn more about Big Event 2026 below.
Volunteers rake leaves from a yard during Big Event in April 2024.
Who is eligible to request a job site?
Any non-profit organization or private resident within the Lincoln city limits may apply for volunteers. Our mission is to serve those who support the University, with a particular focus on projects that may be difficult for residents to complete on their own.
How do I submit a request for my home or organization?
Volunteer requests can be submitted on our online form here. Once submitted, you will need to complete a site agreement form. In early April, we will reach out to confirm whether your request is fulfilled and any additional details.
Is there a cost to have volunteers help me?
No. There is absolutely no charge for the labor provided by The Big Event. We are a non-need-based organization dedicated to "simply saying thank you."
What happens if it rains on the day of the event?
The Big Event typically proceeds rain or shine for indoor tasks. In the event of severe weather that prevents outdoor work, we will communicate any cancellations or rescheduling updates online and via the email address provided in your application.
How are volunteers assigned to my site?
Our Executive Team matches volunteer groups to sites based on the number of volunteers requested and the nature of the tasks. For example, a larger yard may be assigned a student organization with 15+ members, while a small project may be assigned to a group of four.
What happens if something is accidentally damaged?
The Big Event and its student volunteers are not responsible for any damages to property. By requesting a job site, hosts acknowledge that volunteers are students, not professional contractors. We require a resident or site supervisor to be physically present at all times to provide guidance and oversight.
You must complete a site agreement and indemnification to participate in the Big Event.
Can I guarantee that my job will be finished?
While our students work hard to complete every task, we cannot guarantee the completion of all requested jobs within the three-hour window. Additionally, volunteers may only perform the tasks specifically requested and approved in the original application.
Who is responsible for supervision?
A representative from the community organization or the resident of the private home must be physically present at the job site at all times while volunteers are working.
What if I need to cancel my request?
Residents and organizations have the right to terminate or cancel volunteer services at any time. Similarly, The Big Event reserves the right to cancel a specific job site due to safety concerns or logistical constraints.
How do I sign up to volunteer?
Registration is completed online here. As we get closer to the event, we will email with job details and a waiver to complete online.
Can I sign up individually or do I need a group?
Both! You can sign up as an individual and we will match you with a group, or you can register with your student group.
What is the role of a Group Leader?
The Group Leader is the primary liaison between The Big Event and their volunteer groups. They are responsible for signing their group up for the Big Event, communicating expectations, and ensuring their group arrives to their volunteer site.
What should I wear?
Wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, as many jobs involve outdoor work. Volunteers are encouraged to wear their The Big Event t-shirt that will be provided closer to the event.
Do I need to bring my own tools?
No. Tools are either provided by the job site or checked out to you during morning registration. The Big Event will trade tools for your NCard on the day of the event. We will return your NCard when you return the tools at the end of the day.
Please note that volunteers are prohibited from using power tools and ladders.
What happens if there is an issue at my job site?
Each site is assigned an Operations Staff (Ops Staff) member. They act as the liaison between your site and the Executive Team. If an issue arises that you or your Group Leader cannot resolve, your Ops Staff member will assist you.
What should I expect on the day of the event?
The Big Event will send details as we get closer to the event. Plan to arrive to the Union Green Space before heading to your assigned job site to share a meal with fellow volunteers, check out tools, and receive final instructions.
What kind of work will I be doing?
Volunteers perform a variety of tasks, including yard work, window washing, and general household organization. All tasks are non-professional and designed to be completed by student volunteers.
Where does the volunteering take place?
We serve both local non-profit organizations and private residences across Lincoln. You will be notified of your specific job site locations approximately in early April.
Does the Big Event provide transportation to my job site?
No. You will need to coordinate with your group to carpool to your assigned site.