Service Learning

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 2018 indicated that 83% 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:

• Consider their relationship to the communities in which they engage
• Explore their personal capacity and desire to serve others
• Practice creative decision-making and leadership skills
• Advance behaviors necessary for responsible citizenship
• Grow in their awareness of cultural differences
• Develop their interpersonal, practical and professional skills

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:

Featured Article

Hannah Bacon ’22 Helps Students Find Their Voice

Hannah Bacon ’22 is leading 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