Our Service-Learning Program has witnessed dramatic growth since its inception in 1993, and has developed into one of the mainstays of the curriculum and of the College s relationship with the community. The Program now serves more than 800 students annually with approximately 200 organizations as community partners, and 65 full-time faculty engaged in teaching service learning.

The growth of our Service Learning Program has created stronger collaborative efforts between the College and numerous community organizations as well as K through 12 schools. Prior to service learning, there had been a fair amount of community collaboration and problem-solving in both counties served by the College. However, the recent expansion of our Service Learning Program has fostered greater reciprocity that has altered this relationship profoundly.

The interchange between College and community has resulted in many positive outcomes. The partnerships developed have made the College a stronger voice in problem-solving and richer resource for the community, than ever before. As a consequence, many agency directors as well as educational and community leaders look to the College for assistance in meeting their goals. At a time when many social service agencies and schools are facing funding cuts, our program is an active and reliable partner assisting with their staffing needs. This has resulted in notable contributions to these organizations and provided our students with a vast array of opportunities. Each semester, a significant number of students report being offered employment because of their service learning experience. Moreover, many of the students say they have developed skills to help them with their academic and career goals and also will continue to volunteer at these same organizations after fulfilling required course hours.

Our Service Learning Program has engaged the enthusiasm and support of many students, faculty, administrators, and community leaders. It has provided community organizations and K through 12 schools with needed support and assistance. It has strengthened the role of our institution in addressing issues of civic education. Most importantly, it has offered our students a vital laboratory for the development of a life-long commitment to learning and good citizenship. As College President, I remain committed to the development of civic education and incorporating community service into the academic curriculum for colleges and K through12 schools, both locally and nationally.

Contact person: Lori Moog (Lmoog {at} raritanval(.)edu), Coordinator of Academic Outreach Programs
Service Learning Program web site: http://www.raritanval.edu/servicelearning/