Relentless Rains, Compassionate Hearts: CSU Student Volunteers Respond to Disaster in Hualien

In late September 2025, continuous torrential rainfall struck Guangfu Township in Hualien County, causing a landslide dam to form upstream of the Mataian River and eventually collapse. The sudden flooding severely damaged roads, homes, and public infrastructure, disrupting the lives of local residents and creating an urgent need for post-disaster recovery.

In response, Cheng Shiu University (CSU) quickly mobilized student volunteers. Nearly 40 students voluntarily traveled to the affected area, providing hands-on support for recovery efforts and demonstrating both university social responsibility and the action-driven spirit of young people.

On the Front Lines: Supporting Post-Disaster Recovery

Upon arriving in Guangfu Township, the student volunteers immediately divided into teams and took on various tasks, including environmental cleanup, transporting supplies, basic repairs, and offering care and support to affected residents. Their goal was to help accelerate the recovery process and ease the burden on the local community.

Despite working in challenging conditions—heat, mud, and physical exhaustion—the students remained committed, stepping into the front lines to accompany residents through a difficult time. Through their efforts, “service-learning” became more than a classroom concept—it became a real-world practice.

Discovering the Value of Service through Action

Pan Bo-Ping, a senior student from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, shared that he participated in relief work from 9 a.m. until after 4 p.m. in a single-day round trip. While physically demanding, what moved him most was witnessing volunteers from across Taiwan—people of all ages and backgrounds—working together in unity.

“At that moment, I truly realized how meaningful volunteer work is,” he said. The experience reaffirmed his belief that contributing time and effort can create tangible change in society.

From Receiving Help to Giving Back

Fang Ze-Yin, a first-year student from the Department of Architecture, explained that his motivation to join the relief effort came from a simple yet profound reason:
“I’ve been helped by others before. Now that I’m able, I want to give back to those in need.”

He noted that the impact of witnessing the disaster firsthand was far greater than what could be seen on television. The muddy environment, damaged homes, and the distress of residents made him deeply aware of the challenges of recovery—and the importance of volunteer support.

The Flow of Compassion: Passing Kindness Forward

Fang also shared that residents expressed heartfelt gratitude toward the volunteers, and that this appreciation was deeply reciprocated.
“They were moved, and we were moved too—it felt like love being passed along, layer by layer.”

He hopes that through such actions, more people will become aware of the ongoing needs in Hualien and continue to offer support within their means.

Finding Warmth in Solidarity

Another student, Ms. Weng, emphasized that her participation was entirely voluntary. Upon arriving at the site, she realized the scale and long-term nature of post-disaster recovery work.

What left the strongest impression on her was the teamwork and mutual support among volunteers. Despite the demanding tasks, everyone encouraged one another and worked in close coordination.
“That feeling really warms your heart—and it stays with you,” she said.

Putting University Social Responsibility into Action

Through this disaster relief effort in Guangfu Township, CSU students responded to societal needs with concrete actions—integrating professional knowledge, humanistic care, and civic engagement. Their efforts reflect the responsibility and initiative of a new generation.

Moving forward, CSU hopes to continue guiding students into real-world contexts, ensuring that the principles of “learning through practice” and “caring for society” are not just ideals, but lived experiences.

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