SWCC in the Community

Here are some ways SWCC has assisted Creston and the surrounding communities.

Carpentry & building trades Career Academy

Southwestern re-established the carpentry and building trades Career Academy program, in partnership with Red Oak Community School District and the Red Oak community, during the fall 2024 semester. Students from Red Oak who enroll in the 15-credit Career Academy earn both college and high school credit. The 2024-25 Career Academy has six high school students enrolled, who are building a 1,400 sq. ft. home in Red Oak.

SWCC admissions expands Career Day

During the fall 2024 semester, SWCC expanded Career Day to include arts and sciences transfer options, as well as career and technical education (CTE) programs. More than 500 students attended the one-day event in October.

SWCC nursing students volunteer at Creston Open Table

Students from SWCC's nursing programs provided the meal and volunteered Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, at the Creston Open Table.

Red Oak students make signs for Spanish speaking individuals

English as a Second Language (ESL) students created signs to be utilized on the SWCC parade entry during the Red Oak Junction Days parade so spectators who were Spanish speaking would be informed of services available at the Red Oak Center.

During 2024 Pay it Forward (PIF) Week ….

Walmart Appreciation Night

The Creston Walmart and SWCC women’s basketball partnered to host a Spartan Meet & Greet and Walmart Appreciation Night on the weekend of Dec. 6-7. The weekend started with the team visiting Walmart on Friday, Dec. 6, to meet and greet members of the community and sign team photos. On Saturday, Dec. 7, during the SWCC vs. Marshalltown CC game, Walmart employees received free admission to the game and Walmart provided a chance to win a 55-inch TV during a halftime competition.

SWCC hosts 10th annual indoor tournament

The SWCC Disc Golf Club hosted 42 competitors for its 10th annual indoor tournament on Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, at the former Creston Walmart building, fondly referred to on campus as the SWCC Coliseum. Participants came from as far away as Des Moines, Madrid, and Council Bluffs.

TRIO-SSS finds gifts for families during the holidays

Each year, the TRIO-Student Support Services brightens the holidays for SWCC students and their families during the Stars of Christmas program. During the 2024 holiday season, the program provided gifts for 17 children from seven families.

SWCC softball spreads happiness to local seniors

Spartan softball decorated and assembled trick-or-treat bags to give to a local senior center as an opportunity to give back and help residents celebrate Halloween!