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Volunteerism is the willingness of people to work unpaid on behalf of others. Volunteers may have special training as rescuers, guides, assistants, teachers, missionaries, amateur radio operators, writers, and in other positions. But the majority work on an impromptu basis, recognizing a need and filling it, whether it be the dramatic search for a lost child or the mundane giving of directions to a lost visitor. It may be done for altruistic reasons, for example charity, as a hobby, community service or vocation, or for the purpose of gaining experience. |
Service Learning is a method of teaching, learning and reflecting that combines academic classroom curriculum with meaningful service throughout the community. As a teaching methodology, it falls under the philosophy of experiential education. More specifically, it integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, encourage lifelong civic engagement, and strengthen communities for the common good. |
Volunteer and service learning opportunities may include:
 Youth and Adolescents
 Hospitals & Hospice Care
 Churches
 Clubs and Organizations
 Events |
 "I never worry about
action, but only inaction."
-Winston Churchill |
Why Volunteer or participate in Service Learning?
1. Volunteering strengthens your own community.
Volunteering helps you help others and brings your community together. Volunteering promotes community and family oriented programming and events, helping to provide a safer and more secure environment to live in.
2. Volunteering is much easier than most people think.
Anyone can volunteer, there are so many different volunteer sites out there, there is bound to be one for you. It is up to you to pick the time and place you would like to volunteer. If you volunteer at a site, and it doesn't work for you, try another site, it might be perfect for you!
3. Volunteering is good for you.
Volunteering of any kind can reduce stress. Studies show that, like exercise or meditation, helping others on a regular basis creates a sense of calm and well-being and reduces stress. We all know what finals can do to a person, so next time you are stressed from all that studying, take a break and do something to make you feel good.
4. Volunteering is educational.
One reason that University students should especially volunteer is because of all that you will learn. For most people, volunteering brings you out of the class and into real life situations. You will be given many opportunities to gain leadership positions, and learn about skills that will help further your career later in life.
5. Volunteering is FUN!!
The number one reason to volunteer is because it is fun! People start to volunteer for many different reasons, but most of them stick with it for one reason--they have a good time. This is your chance to do something you love. If you like to garden, work with an organization such as the Gardening Club; if you like to build things, you can join Habitat for Humanity, the list goes on and on. Volunteering is an entertaining way to take a break from your everyday life, and meet new friends at the same time.
 Whatever the reason to volunteer, the outcome will be an unforgettable experience.
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