Service learning continues to be a core aspect of a Central College education. This year’s Service Day, set for Wednesday, Oct. 2, invites not only students, faculty, and staff but also alumni and the public to participate.
“Service Day helps instill a sense of citizenship in our students,” says Natalie Nunnikhoven, associate director of civic engagement. “Students enrolled in engaged citizenship courses will participate in a service project as part of their coursework with classroom learning followed by hands-on community service. Following Service Day, faculty will connect with their students to reflect on the importance of their service and how this ties directly to becoming an engaged citizen.”
For the first time, students will access volunteer opportunities through the Handshake platform, allowing them to connect with community organizations and network with local professionals. Students can learn more about the community partner by accessing employer pages and finding job postings.
Digging into the local area needs, Service Day focuses on supporting community organizations within Pella and Marion County.
“Service Day will be during Homecoming Week, and it seemed natural to add alumni to Service Day,” says Mary Benedict, director of engagement. “Our alumni play a very important role in supporting our Central students. They genuinely understand the importance of giving back to the community and how getting students involved in service from the moment they step on campus allows students to develop the skills necessary to be successful in their careers after graduation.”
In the Pella area, community members may sign up for a shift working in the Pella Opera House alongside Central students. Students have the opportunity to network with alumni and build connections. Alumni unable to travel are encouraged to give back in their own communities, spreading the Central way of giving back. Benedict encourages alumni and the community to track their volunteered hours on Service Day.
