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Getting Involved Off Campus
Giving back to the community
While your college or university probably offers more than enough groups and activities to keep you busy for the duration of your stay at school, sometimes it's nice to get a change of scenery and a break from college life. Becoming active in the community outside your school offers many benefits while allowing you to give back to the community you call home.Volunteering for groups outside of school can be rewarding for both you and the community. In fact, many of these organizations depend on the help of college students to reach their goals. Depending on the opportunity, you can gain real-world experience, make new friends outside of your classes, and meet community leaders that may become mentors or valuable contacts when your coursework is complete. It's also a great way to learn about cultures and communities outside of your university life.
Volunteer groups such as Habitat for Humanity, the ASPCA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, or the YMCA/YWCA have chapters all over the country and offer many opportunities for students. On a local level, nonprofit environmental, public health, and youth groups are constantly in need of volunteers in areas from tutoring to public awareness. Area schools and museums may also be looking for assistance.
Many schools have student-run organizations that can help you find volunteer opportunities that interest you. Look for a campus volunteer center, which often has information on both on- and off-campus opportunities. The Office of Student Activities or Student Life office may also be helpful in your search.
You can also look for groups needing help through specific departments throughout the school. For example, the school of government may be able to hook you up with local government agencies in need of volunteers on a regular basis or for special projects. No matter what your interests are, it's likely that there's a group out there that could use your help.
Paula Andruss is a Cincinnati-based freelance writer whose work has appeared in publications including Parents, WomensWallStreet.com, Marketing News, Crain's Chicago Business, and Cincinnati magazine.
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