PAU Community Comes Together in Service at LifeMoves Mountain View

PALO ALTO, Calif. | June 10, 2026 - As part of Palo Alto University's 50th Anniversary Celebration Week, members of the PAU community gathered at LifeMoves Mountain View for an afternoon of community and service. More than 16 PAU volunteers, including President Farouk Dey and Trustee Karen Scussel, joined LifeMoves staff and leadership to serve lunch, distribute essentials, celebrate with cake, and spend time with residents at the Mountain View Homekey site. The event provided an opportunity for members of both organizations to come together around a shared commitment to supporting and strengthening the communities they serve.

LifeMoves Mountain View provides interim housing and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, helping residents build pathways toward long-term stability and independence. Throughout the afternoon, PAU volunteers shared a meal and conversation with residents, creating opportunities for connection that extended beyond the day's activities. Representing LifeMoves were Anat Leonard-Wookey, Vice President of Programs and Services; Fred Smith, Vice President of Philanthropy; Stephanie Claudatos, Director of Behavioral Health Programs; Gohar Jaffer, Associate Director of Behavioral Health Programs; Danielle Starov, Program Director of the Mountain View Homekey Program; and Lynnelle Bilsley, Senior Volunteer Programs Manager. "This means so much to our residents," said Bilsley. "Many of the people we serve don't always feel seen or heard. Having a group come in simply to spend time with them, share a meal, and celebrate together reminds them that they matter."

The meal was provided by Estrellita Mexican Bistro & Cantina, a longtime PAU community partner. Owner Carlos G. Corlay generously donated a portion of the food, helping make the event possible. "Supporting local means investing in the places that hold a community's history, culture, and heart," said Corlay. "We're grateful to be able to support an event that brings people together and strengthens our community." For President Farouk Dey, the event reflected the spirit of both Celebration Week and PAU's enduring commitment to service. "At its core, Palo Alto University is about people," said Dey. "Service creates opportunities to connect with one another, learn from different experiences, and strengthen the communities we are part of."

While the afternoon concluded with shared smiles, conversations, and new connections, its impact extends beyond a single day. It represents the kind of community Palo Alto University strives to cultivate, one that learns together, serves together, and works alongside community partners to improve lives. As PAU looks ahead, the university looks forward to creating more opportunities for its community to come together in service.

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