Service Learning

The Elmhurst College Service Learning program provides opportunities for students and faculty to connect on-campus learning with service to the local, national or global community.

Service learning furthers the College mission of preparing students “for meaningful and ethical contributions to a diverse, global society” by bridging the gap between theory and practice, the individual and the community.

A survey conducted by the Service Learning program in the fall of 2018 indicated that 83% of Elmhurst College undergraduate students feel “a responsibility to serve the community.” This program provides possibilities for bringing these feelings of responsibility to life.

Benefits of Service Learning

Participating in service learning completes the circle between giving and receiving.

• The opportunity to consider one’s relationship to the communities in which one engages
• The exploration of one’s own personal capacity and desire to serve others
• The possibility of practicing creative decision-making and leadership skills
• The development of behaviors necessary for responsible citizenship
• The heightening of sensitivity to cultural difference and independence

Community partners welcoming Elmhurst College service learners include organizations which prompt reflection in a variety of areas including:

There is so much we can learn from others if we open our eyes and our hearts.

Grace M.