Service-Learning Resources

Service-Learning is a special kind of community service. More than a volunteer project for its own sake, a service learning pro ject involves youth volunteers not only in meaningful activity to help others, but further takes them through a reflective process, where they develop a deeper understanding of the issues involved and a stronger commitment to positive action. They also develop better self-understanding, as they express feelings about their involvement, and reflect on the meaning of the project and their group experience.

While many service learning opportunities take place within the curriculum of an educational setting, many other service-learning projects are community based.

Volunteer Centers are often the link between schools or youth service programs and the community. They assist teachers and youth leaders to develop valuable community projects. Then they help “fill in the blanks” about the history and impact of the problem or issue that is being approached.

While Volunteer Centers are involved with many youth programs and projects to benefit communities, the most comprehensive are those that involve aspects of service-learning, linking emotions, learning, and ideals.

To learn about youth programming and service learning in your area, contact your Volunteer Center.

Partners and Other Resources

LEAGUE Michigan
The LEAGUE Powered by Learning to Give is just that…a cooperative, international “league” of K-12 schools and community organizations where young people “learn to give.” The LEAGUE plans to increase the quality and quantity of young people’s philanthropy and service contributions, worldwide, through a model that combines calendar-based events, curriculum and ongoing service throughout the school year. The LEAGUE wraps lessons and activities in a sports-style system with points, teacher “Coaches” and student “Captains” while providing quantifiable, newsworthy opportunities to spark local media coverage of youth “doing good”.

Michigan Campus Compact
Michigan Campus Compact is a coalition of 43 college and university presidents committed to promoting the education and commitment of Michigan college students to be engaged citizens, through creating and expanding academic, co-curricular and campus-wide opportunities for community service, service-learning and civic engagement. When campuses, students and community come together, everyone benefits. Research shows that students retain more information from their classes, are inspired by education and are more likely to graduate and become community leaders, citizens and volunteers when engaged with their community in college. When the campus encourages involvement, community needs are addressed through research, partnerships, shared resources and volunteerism. More information about Michigan Campus Compact can be found at www.micampuscompact.org. 

Michigan Community Service Commission
The Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) builds a culture of service by providing vision and resources to strengthen communities through volunteerism. The Michigan Community Service Commission strives to build a culture of service by providing vision and resources to strengthen communities through volunteerism. The MCSC uses Michigan's AmeriCorps, Learn and Serve-Michigan, Mentor Michigan, Volunteer Michigan, and the Governor's Service Awards to achieve just that.