Learn. Serve. Engage.
Please note: As long as campus is open, students are allowed to pursue service opportunities on-site. Students should practice caution in any setting, following all protocols, and the use of protective personal equipment as required. Students must wear a mask while on-site. Any student hesitant to complete service on-site should contact Dr. Mary Walsh regarding possible modifications and alternate options for online/remote service.
The Elmhurst University 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 University’s 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 2021 indicated that 91% of Elmhurst University 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. Students who participate:
- Examine their personal capacity and desire to serve others
- Reflect upon their relationship to the communities in which they engage
- Demonstrate an awareness of and respect for cultural difference
- Practice behaviors necessary for responsible citizenship
There is so much we can learn from others if we open our eyes and our hearts.
—Grace M.
Community Partners
Community partners welcoming Elmhurst University service learners include organizations which prompt reflection in a variety of areas including:
- Animal Care
- Arts and Culture
- Civic Engagement
- Education and Literacy
- Environmental Justice
- Global Challenges
- Health and Well-being
- Intimate Partner Violence
- Older Adults
- People with Disabilities
- Social Justice
Featured Articles
Honors Student Named a Newman Civic Fellow
Hailey Nicholas ’23 was among 173 students in the U.S. and Mexico named 2022 Newman Civic Fellows. The program recognizes students committed to creating positive change.
Hannah Bacon ’22 Helps Students Find Their Voice
Hannah Bacon ’22 led a civic engagement initiative through the Service Learning Program that centers on the election process.
Featured Blog Post
What Is Service Learning?
November 25, 2019 | 3 Minute Read