This is a reminder that the second session in this series is Thursday, November 12 at 12 PM EST. See below for more information!
National Service-Learning Partnership presents
Gear Up for Service-Learning Success: The National Learn & Serve Challenge
As part of the National Learn & Serve Challenge, the National Service-Learning Partnership and the National Youth Leadership Council invite you to participate in a series of webinars:
1) An Introduction to Service-Learning: The National Standards for High Quality Service-Learning (already finished, archives will be up on the Learn & Serve Challenge site)
2) Understanding the Service-Learning Cycle
3) The Value of Self- Assessment for Quality and Sustainable Service-Learning
This series is intended to provide an in depth look at how organizations might begin or possibly improve upon existing service-learning programming. Throughout all three of these webinars we will explore how a new and exciting online professional development network known as the Generator School Network (GSN) a for educators working in service-learning can help educators on their journey to improve the quality of their learning practices. While each webinar is intended to build upon the previous, feel free to join any one or all sessions.
1) To join these webinars visit www.readytalk.com on the following dates and times:
Oct. 28th at 11:00 am CST (12:00 pm EST) Intro to Service-Learning
Nov. 12th at 11:00 am CST (12:00 pm EST) The Service-Learning Cycle
Dec. 3rd at 11:00 am CST (12:00 pm EST) Self-Assessment and the GSN Resources
Join us by logging onto www.readytalk.com and typing “8991249” as the access code under “Join a Meeting.” You will be asked to provide your name and e-mail address to register. The audio portion is done through a conference call line; join the audio by dialing 866-740-1260 and using the same participant passcode: 8991249.
We look forward to talking with you further on Wednesday! For any questions or concerns, contact Michael VanKeulen, Director at the National Youth Leadership Council via email or at 651-999-7378.
Hope you will be able to join us!
Remember to Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year. Accept the Challenge here!
*********************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
* American Association of Community Colleges
* American Association of State Colleges and Universities
* America's Promise Alliance
* Campus Compact
* DECA
* Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
* National Alliance for Faith and Justice
* National Community Education Association
* National Education Association
* National Youth Leadership Council
* National Parent Teacher Association
* SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
* Usher's New Look Foundation
* Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
November 10, 2009
Funding Opportunity for Learn & Serve Challenge Participants
State Farm Good Neighbor Service-Learning Grants (Deadline Extended: November 13)
Youth Service America is currently accepting applications for State Farm® Good Neighbor Service-Learning Grants to support service-learning projects that culminate on Global Youth Service Day, April 23-25, 2010.
School and community educators across the United States and Canada can apply for up to $1,000 in funding for youth-led projects.
Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy integrating meaningful community service with academic study and reflective practice to enrich learning, build civic engagement, and strengthen communities.
State Farm Good Neighbor Service-Learning grant applicants are encouraged to develop projects that launch on Martin Luther King Day of Service, January 18, 2010, and culminate on the weekend of GYSD, April 23-25, 2010.
The extended deadline is midnight ET Friday, November 13.
To begin the application process, complete the Eligibility Quiz.
Youth Service America is currently accepting applications for State Farm® Good Neighbor Service-Learning Grants to support service-learning projects that culminate on Global Youth Service Day, April 23-25, 2010.
School and community educators across the United States and Canada can apply for up to $1,000 in funding for youth-led projects.
Service-learning is a teaching and learning strategy integrating meaningful community service with academic study and reflective practice to enrich learning, build civic engagement, and strengthen communities.
State Farm Good Neighbor Service-Learning grant applicants are encouraged to develop projects that launch on Martin Luther King Day of Service, January 18, 2010, and culminate on the weekend of GYSD, April 23-25, 2010.
The extended deadline is midnight ET Friday, November 13.
To begin the application process, complete the Eligibility Quiz.
November 05, 2009
More Info on the Learn & Serve Challenge
The National Learn & Serve Challenge kick off week has come and gone. Much happened during the week of October 5-12, and much more is to come. Please visit our website to see more information. Register your Challenge communities here and visit our newly revamped toolkit for resources, trainings, and other tips. Remember, this is different from the Challenge Kick Off Week! If you have any questions please contact us at 202-884-8982.
As for the Kick Off Week, we were able to secure a House Resolution and a Senate Resolution in support of the Challenge Kick Off.
We received several proclamations supporting the Challenge Kick Off.
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley
Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and State Board of Education
Others will be posted on the Challenge website.
Here are some of the news items from around the country for the Kick Off:
Miss Oklahoma (Ada, OK)
Stanford University - video (Stanford, CA)
The After School Corporation (New York, NY)
University of Louisiana at Monroe (Monroe, LA)
University of Texas at San Antonio (San Antonio, TX)
As for the Kick Off Week, we were able to secure a House Resolution and a Senate Resolution in support of the Challenge Kick Off.
We received several proclamations supporting the Challenge Kick Off.
Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley
Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm and State Board of Education
Others will be posted on the Challenge website.
Here are some of the news items from around the country for the Kick Off:
Miss Oklahoma (Ada, OK)
Stanford University - video (Stanford, CA)
The After School Corporation (New York, NY)
University of Louisiana at Monroe (Monroe, LA)
University of Texas at San Antonio (San Antonio, TX)
Gear Up for Giving with the Case Foundation
America’s Giving Challenge has raised the stakes with an additional $75,000 in awards! There are still 1 day left to win $50,000 for your cause!
America’s Giving Challenge has just raised the stakes! Thanks to a generous $75,000 grant from the W.K Kellogg Foundation, five additional overall awards and seven daily awards are being added to the Challenge which means more prizes for more nonprofits!
There are still 1 day left in the Giving Challenge and you can help win daily awards for your favorite cause everyday up to $1,500 and over $50,000 overall! Join the Challenge now to support the cause you care most about!
Take the Challenge. Change the world. Visit the website to get started now!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts:
Allyson Burns, The Case Foundation, (202) 467-2059
Mike VanBuren, W.K. Kellogg Foundation (269) 969-2148
W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant to America’s Giving Challenge Significantly Increases Number of Overall and Daily Awards Offered to Nonprofit Causes
Challenge Has Already Raised $1.1 million from More Than 50K Donations in Three Weeks;
Runs through November 6
WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 30, 2009) – America’s Giving Challenge, a 30-day, national online competition that encourages people to leverage their social networks to recruit supporters and win cash awards for nonprofit organizations, today announced that it has received a $75,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek, Michigan to help mobilize participation in the last week of the Challenge.
The grant increases the total amount of award dollars in the Challenge to $245,000 for nonprofit causes that net the highest number of donations. America’s Giving Challenge, presented by the Case Foundation, Causes and PARADE Publications, launched on October 7, 2009. To date more than 50,000 donations have raised $1.1 million for nonprofit causes.
“America’s Giving Challenge offers a tremendous opportunity to raise funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations at a time when the communities we care about, including children and families, have never been in greater need of their services,” said Anne Mosle, vice president for programs at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “We hope that collaborating with our colleagues in these efforts will not only encourage more innovation by all the participants in their fundraising efforts, but ultimately spark a larger movement of nonprofits leveraging technology to reach new audiences and inspire civic action.”
The $75,000 contribution from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation will enable the creation of five additional overall awards, including one $25,000 and four $10,000 prizes for the causes that garner the most unique daily donations over the 30 days of the Challenge. In addition, a $1,500 daily prize will be added for the last seven days of the Challenge beginning at 3 p.m. ET today. With the additional contribution, America’s Giving Challenge now offers 12 overall awards: one $50,000 prize, two $25,000 prizes and nine $10,000 prizes, and three daily awards of $1,500, $1,000 and $500.
Individuals and nonprofits can still get involved in America’s Giving Challenge. From now until November 6 at 3 p.m. ET, participants can compete for daily and overall awards – ranging from $500 to $50,000 – based on the number of donations to their cause using the Causes application on Facebook. Those who wish to participate in the Challenge can get involved in one of two ways:
* Champion a cause – Individuals can become “cause champions,” who are passionate about a specific cause and will compete to obtain the most donations for their cause through the Causes application on Facebook.
* Promote, donate or join a cause – all individuals are encouraged to take part in America’s Giving Challenge by joining, promoting and donating to the causes they care about. Facebook membership is not required to donate to a Giving Challenge cause.
Participants can register to compete in the Giving Challenge, view details and donate to a cause they care about at www.americasgivingchallenge.com.
About the W.K. Kellogg Foundation
Established in 1930, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation supports children, families and communities as they strengthen and create conditions that propel vulnerable children to achieve success as individuals and as contributors to the larger community and society. Grants are concentrated in the United States, Latin American and the Caribbean, and southern Africa.
About the Presenting Partners:
The Case Foundation
The Case Foundation, created by Steve and Jean Case in 1997, invests in people and ideas that can change the world. The Foundation champions initiatives that connect people, increase giving, and catalyze civic action. For more information, visit www.casefoundation.org.
Causes
Causes empowers anyone with a good idea or passion for change to impact the world. Using our platform, individuals mobilize their network of friends to grow lasting social and political movements. To date, over 85 million Facebook users have installed the application and created and joined more than 300,000 grassroots causes that benefit more than 60,000 nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit the Causes Application and Causes Exchange.
PARADE
PARADE, the most widely read magazine in America, is distributed in more than 500 of the nation’s top newspapers. The magazine, which launched in 1941, now has a circulation of 32 million and a readership of 73 million. Each Sunday in PARADE and every day at Parade.com, our mission is to entertain, inspire and inform Americans about the issues they care most about and move them to action. For more information, visit www.parade.com.
America’s Giving Challenge has just raised the stakes! Thanks to a generous $75,000 grant from the W.K Kellogg Foundation, five additional overall awards and seven daily awards are being added to the Challenge which means more prizes for more nonprofits!
There are still 1 day left in the Giving Challenge and you can help win daily awards for your favorite cause everyday up to $1,500 and over $50,000 overall! Join the Challenge now to support the cause you care most about!
Take the Challenge. Change the world. Visit the website to get started now!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts:
Allyson Burns, The Case Foundation, (202) 467-2059
Mike VanBuren, W.K. Kellogg Foundation (269) 969-2148
W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant to America’s Giving Challenge Significantly Increases Number of Overall and Daily Awards Offered to Nonprofit Causes
Challenge Has Already Raised $1.1 million from More Than 50K Donations in Three Weeks;
Runs through November 6
WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 30, 2009) – America’s Giving Challenge, a 30-day, national online competition that encourages people to leverage their social networks to recruit supporters and win cash awards for nonprofit organizations, today announced that it has received a $75,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek, Michigan to help mobilize participation in the last week of the Challenge.
The grant increases the total amount of award dollars in the Challenge to $245,000 for nonprofit causes that net the highest number of donations. America’s Giving Challenge, presented by the Case Foundation, Causes and PARADE Publications, launched on October 7, 2009. To date more than 50,000 donations have raised $1.1 million for nonprofit causes.
“America’s Giving Challenge offers a tremendous opportunity to raise funds and awareness for nonprofit organizations at a time when the communities we care about, including children and families, have never been in greater need of their services,” said Anne Mosle, vice president for programs at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. “We hope that collaborating with our colleagues in these efforts will not only encourage more innovation by all the participants in their fundraising efforts, but ultimately spark a larger movement of nonprofits leveraging technology to reach new audiences and inspire civic action.”
The $75,000 contribution from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation will enable the creation of five additional overall awards, including one $25,000 and four $10,000 prizes for the causes that garner the most unique daily donations over the 30 days of the Challenge. In addition, a $1,500 daily prize will be added for the last seven days of the Challenge beginning at 3 p.m. ET today. With the additional contribution, America’s Giving Challenge now offers 12 overall awards: one $50,000 prize, two $25,000 prizes and nine $10,000 prizes, and three daily awards of $1,500, $1,000 and $500.
Individuals and nonprofits can still get involved in America’s Giving Challenge. From now until November 6 at 3 p.m. ET, participants can compete for daily and overall awards – ranging from $500 to $50,000 – based on the number of donations to their cause using the Causes application on Facebook. Those who wish to participate in the Challenge can get involved in one of two ways:
* Champion a cause – Individuals can become “cause champions,” who are passionate about a specific cause and will compete to obtain the most donations for their cause through the Causes application on Facebook.
* Promote, donate or join a cause – all individuals are encouraged to take part in America’s Giving Challenge by joining, promoting and donating to the causes they care about. Facebook membership is not required to donate to a Giving Challenge cause.
Participants can register to compete in the Giving Challenge, view details and donate to a cause they care about at www.americasgivingchallenge.com.
About the W.K. Kellogg Foundation
Established in 1930, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation supports children, families and communities as they strengthen and create conditions that propel vulnerable children to achieve success as individuals and as contributors to the larger community and society. Grants are concentrated in the United States, Latin American and the Caribbean, and southern Africa.
About the Presenting Partners:
The Case Foundation
The Case Foundation, created by Steve and Jean Case in 1997, invests in people and ideas that can change the world. The Foundation champions initiatives that connect people, increase giving, and catalyze civic action. For more information, visit www.casefoundation.org.
Causes
Causes empowers anyone with a good idea or passion for change to impact the world. Using our platform, individuals mobilize their network of friends to grow lasting social and political movements. To date, over 85 million Facebook users have installed the application and created and joined more than 300,000 grassroots causes that benefit more than 60,000 nonprofit organizations in the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit the Causes Application and Causes Exchange.
PARADE
PARADE, the most widely read magazine in America, is distributed in more than 500 of the nation’s top newspapers. The magazine, which launched in 1941, now has a circulation of 32 million and a readership of 73 million. Each Sunday in PARADE and every day at Parade.com, our mission is to entertain, inspire and inform Americans about the issues they care most about and move them to action. For more information, visit www.parade.com.
Full Time Job in Service-Learning!
Help run programs that teach young people about leadership, citizenship, and social justice! Work behind the scenes at an innovative nonprofit organization! Northwestern University's Civic Education Project is now hiring a full time Assistant Coordinator!
About CEP:
The Civic Education Project (CEP), at Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development, is an award-winning leadership and citizenship program for outstanding high school and junior high school students. CEP combines traditional education and community service to promote civic responsibility among young people. Through innovative school year programs and summer courses, CEP offers promising young people opportunities to learn and serve in communities across the country, developing the knowledge, experience, and leadership skills they need to make a positive impact on society.
Assistant Coordinator Position:
The Assistant Coordinator is responsible for supporting the administration of CEP's school-year and summer service-learning programs, with significant responsibility for day-to-day operations. Specific responsibilities include: designing programs and curricula; organizing service projects, community experiences, and speakers; overseeing student recruitment and outreach to families and educators; recruiting, hiring, training, and supervising temporary program staff; and working in on-site administrative roles at sites throughout the country during spring and summer program seasons.
To learn more about CEP, visit here.
About the Assistant Coordinator position, including a complete job description, qualifications, and salary range, visit here.
Apply here.
Click on Adademic/Administrative Jobs
Click on Advanced Search
Search for Job Opening ID 15202
Click on Apply Now
You will need to register for Northwestern University’s eRecruit system.
Please include a cover letter, resume, and references in your application.
Apply Now!
**************
Please feel free to re-post this job announcement!
About CEP:
The Civic Education Project (CEP), at Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development, is an award-winning leadership and citizenship program for outstanding high school and junior high school students. CEP combines traditional education and community service to promote civic responsibility among young people. Through innovative school year programs and summer courses, CEP offers promising young people opportunities to learn and serve in communities across the country, developing the knowledge, experience, and leadership skills they need to make a positive impact on society.
Assistant Coordinator Position:
The Assistant Coordinator is responsible for supporting the administration of CEP's school-year and summer service-learning programs, with significant responsibility for day-to-day operations. Specific responsibilities include: designing programs and curricula; organizing service projects, community experiences, and speakers; overseeing student recruitment and outreach to families and educators; recruiting, hiring, training, and supervising temporary program staff; and working in on-site administrative roles at sites throughout the country during spring and summer program seasons.
To learn more about CEP, visit here.
About the Assistant Coordinator position, including a complete job description, qualifications, and salary range, visit here.
Apply here.
Click on Adademic/Administrative Jobs
Click on Advanced Search
Search for Job Opening ID 15202
Click on Apply Now
You will need to register for Northwestern University’s eRecruit system.
Please include a cover letter, resume, and references in your application.
Apply Now!
**************
Please feel free to re-post this job announcement!
Webinar: Keep Kids in School & Prepare Them for Professions
America's Promise Alliance Presents a Free Webinar & Online Discussion:
Keeping Kids in School & Preparing Them for Professions:
How Schools & Non-Profits Can Partner Effectively with Business
Monday November 23, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm EST
Please RSVP by Thursday, November 19th to Elaine Leibsohn. Call-in and login instructions will be provided in advance to those who RSVP.
Please join us as we review and discuss a pre-recorded video presentation from the National Middle School Association Conference, held on November 6, 2009, entitled "How to Engage Business."
Moderator:
Elaine Leibsohn, VP of National Action Strategies, America's Promise Alliance
Presenters(on video and live during webinar:
Kathy Payne, Senior Director of Education Leadership, State Farm Insurance
Sue Stephenson, Vice President, Community Footprints, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
Steve Culbertson, President & CEO, Youth Serve America
Nearly one in three high school students fails to graduate each year. As part of our strategy to cut the dropout rate in half, America's Promise Alliance is helping young people see the relevance of their coursework to their later lives. By offering real-world experiences, career exploration increases young people's motivation to achieve in their schools, communities, and--eventually--their professional environments. Schools, businesses, and youth-serving organizations are all part of the team. Although these organizations often speak different languages and have different cultures, they each can participate in preparing the next generation of citizens for employment.
In this video webinar and discussion, schools, community-based organizations, and others will learn how to identify an appropriate business partner, establish a shared vision, share resources, and link education to employment to ensure everybody wins. Participants will also learn about a new partnership resource from America's Promise, scheduled to be released in December. Webinar attendees will be encouraged to participate in a live discussion with the presenters around engaging businesses in community youth work.
Keeping Kids in School & Preparing Them for Professions:
How Schools & Non-Profits Can Partner Effectively with Business
Monday November 23, 2009
3:00 - 4:00 pm EST
Please RSVP by Thursday, November 19th to Elaine Leibsohn. Call-in and login instructions will be provided in advance to those who RSVP.
Please join us as we review and discuss a pre-recorded video presentation from the National Middle School Association Conference, held on November 6, 2009, entitled "How to Engage Business."
Moderator:
Elaine Leibsohn, VP of National Action Strategies, America's Promise Alliance
Presenters(on video and live during webinar:
Kathy Payne, Senior Director of Education Leadership, State Farm Insurance
Sue Stephenson, Vice President, Community Footprints, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.
Steve Culbertson, President & CEO, Youth Serve America
Nearly one in three high school students fails to graduate each year. As part of our strategy to cut the dropout rate in half, America's Promise Alliance is helping young people see the relevance of their coursework to their later lives. By offering real-world experiences, career exploration increases young people's motivation to achieve in their schools, communities, and--eventually--their professional environments. Schools, businesses, and youth-serving organizations are all part of the team. Although these organizations often speak different languages and have different cultures, they each can participate in preparing the next generation of citizens for employment.
In this video webinar and discussion, schools, community-based organizations, and others will learn how to identify an appropriate business partner, establish a shared vision, share resources, and link education to employment to ensure everybody wins. Participants will also learn about a new partnership resource from America's Promise, scheduled to be released in December. Webinar attendees will be encouraged to participate in a live discussion with the presenters around engaging businesses in community youth work.
October 26, 2009
Learning Opportunity for the National Learn & Serve Challenge!
National Service-Learning Partnership presents
Gear Up for Service-Learning Success: The National Learn & Serve Challenge
As part of the National Learn & Serve Challenge, the National Service-Learning Partnership and the National Youth Leadership Council invite you to participate in a series of webinars:
1) An Introduction to Service-Learning: The National Standards for High Quality Service-Learning
2) Understanding the Service-Learning Cycle
3) The Value of Self- Assessment for Quality and Sustainable Service-Learning
This series is intended to provide an in depth look at how organizations might begin or possibly improve upon existing service-learning programming. Throughout all three of these webinars we will explore how a new and exciting online professional development network known as the Generator School Network (GSN) a for educators working in service-learning can help educators on their journey to improve the quality of their learning practices. While each webinar is intended to build upon the previous, feel free to join any one or all sessions.
1) To join these webinars visit www.readytalk.com on the following dates and times:
Oct. 28th at 11:00 am CST Intro to Service-Learning
Nov. 12th at 11:00 am CST The Service-Learning Cycle
Dec. 3rd at 11:00 am CST Self-Assessment and the GSN Resources
Join us by logging onto www.readytalk.com and typing “8991249” as the access code under “Join a Meeting.” You will be asked to provide your name and e-mail address to register. The audio portion is done through a conference call line; join the audio by dialing 866-740-1260 and using the same participant passcode: 8991249.
We look forward to talking with you further on Wednesday! For any questions or concerns, contact Michael VanKeulen, Director at the National Youth Leadership Council via email or at 651-999-7378.
Hope you will be able to join us!
Remember to Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year. Accept the Challenge here!
*********************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
* American Association of Community Colleges
* American Association of State Colleges and Universities
* America's Promise Alliance
* Campus Compact
* DECA
* Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
* National Alliance for Faith and Justice
* National Community Education Association
* National Education Association
* National Youth Leadership Council
* National Parent Teacher Association
* SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
* Usher's New Look Foundation
* Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
Gear Up for Service-Learning Success: The National Learn & Serve Challenge
As part of the National Learn & Serve Challenge, the National Service-Learning Partnership and the National Youth Leadership Council invite you to participate in a series of webinars:
1) An Introduction to Service-Learning: The National Standards for High Quality Service-Learning
2) Understanding the Service-Learning Cycle
3) The Value of Self- Assessment for Quality and Sustainable Service-Learning
This series is intended to provide an in depth look at how organizations might begin or possibly improve upon existing service-learning programming. Throughout all three of these webinars we will explore how a new and exciting online professional development network known as the Generator School Network (GSN) a for educators working in service-learning can help educators on their journey to improve the quality of their learning practices. While each webinar is intended to build upon the previous, feel free to join any one or all sessions.
1) To join these webinars visit www.readytalk.com on the following dates and times:
Oct. 28th at 11:00 am CST Intro to Service-Learning
Nov. 12th at 11:00 am CST The Service-Learning Cycle
Dec. 3rd at 11:00 am CST Self-Assessment and the GSN Resources
Join us by logging onto www.readytalk.com and typing “8991249” as the access code under “Join a Meeting.” You will be asked to provide your name and e-mail address to register. The audio portion is done through a conference call line; join the audio by dialing 866-740-1260 and using the same participant passcode: 8991249.
We look forward to talking with you further on Wednesday! For any questions or concerns, contact Michael VanKeulen, Director at the National Youth Leadership Council via email or at 651-999-7378.
Hope you will be able to join us!
Remember to Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year. Accept the Challenge here!
*********************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
* American Association of Community Colleges
* American Association of State Colleges and Universities
* America's Promise Alliance
* Campus Compact
* DECA
* Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
* National Alliance for Faith and Justice
* National Community Education Association
* National Education Association
* National Youth Leadership Council
* National Parent Teacher Association
* SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
* Usher's New Look Foundation
* Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
October 14, 2009
Learn & Serve Challenge Kick Off from Atlanta, GA
President Obama to Martin Luther King Jr: Atlanta heeds the call to serve
Submitted by: Djuan Coleon, Show Me the Way Foundation
On Oct. 5, 2009 at Martin Luther King Jr High School in Lithonia, GA (a suburb of Atlanta) we gathered to energized and engage the youth about Service Learning. I chair the Show Me the Way Foundation (SMTWF) and we have partnered with the National Alliance of Faith and Justice (NAFJ) to roll out their service learning program called “Pen or Pencil”.
In a nutshell the program stresses the reality of the two buses that travel to two different destinations each day. One bus goes to the PEN (penitentiary) the other bus goes to the PENCIL (school/education). The youth have a choice to decide which bus they want to get on. President Obama has been stressing education and the need for America to step up the academic standards of not only our schools but the students themselves must strive to lead the world, and we can’t do it by dropping out.
The 2009 Pen or Pencil/SNCC High School Tour Presented by SMTWF, is a 20 school tour throughout the metro area of Atlanta, GA focused on the challenge of the alarming rates of teen violence in metro-Atlanta communities and the staggering number of high school dropouts. Tashawnya Menefee, President of SMTWF, has evolved the focus of the organization (HIV/AIDS and youth mentoring) in 2009-10, due to the statistics facing our youth to now push service learning to actively engage the issues in the community. The Tour is scheduled to run through 2010, tackling head-on the question “What can the youth do to HEAL THE HOOD”. One of the major issues in Atlanta and in many metropolitan areas across the country is the lack of funding for after school programs and extra curricula activities. Teen agers have a lot of bottled up enthusiasm and creativity that is not being channeled in a positive manner.
- 82.6% of incoming freshman report frequent or occasional volunteer work, compared to 81% last year, and a low of 66% in 1989. Contributing in part to this rise is the requirement of community service for graduation from many high schools, which has increased from 23.2% to 28.2% since the item was first asked in 1998. (UCLA/Higher Education Research Institute Annual Freshmen Survey, 2001)
- 72% of young adults say they have donated money, clothes, or food to a community or church organization in the past couple of years. (Center for Democracy & Citizenship, 2002)
- 59.3% (13.3 million teenagers ages 12-17) volunteer, versus 49% of the adult population over the same time period. Teens say they volunteer an average of 3.5 hours per week versus the adult average of 4.2 hours. (Independent Sector/Gallup, 1996)
Statistics show that the youth are already energized and invigorated and if given the opportunities and the tools they are more than willing to answer the clarion call by our President and “be the change they want to see”.
I will be honest I did not know what to expect when we launched the tour on Oct. 5th 2009, I was wondering how would we connect with the youth with what we had. In the last few months Atlanta has seen a rash of murders of high profile people and college students to senseless violence. The community is on edge and everyone is pointing fingers but now is the time for solutions.
The PEN and PENCIL program’s methodology is from SNCC (Student Non Violent Coordinating Committee), this iconic grassroots civil rights organization from the 1960’s was a true youth movement for change and a blueprint for constructive organizing. We hoped to take the organizing strategies, wisdom and passion from the youth over 55 of that era and pass those ideals down to the young people under 25 of today.
We had Constance Curry the first white woman on the executive board for the organization (SNCC), to come in and speak from her experiences. She explained how the youth of that time were the catalyst for the march on Washington, D.C. they were the backbone of the Civil Rights movement.
It was when President Kennedy saw the youth taking a stand in Birmingham, AL he decided to end segregation. The youth in the auditorium were riveted as one speaker and presentation after another reinforced the fact that they have the power to change their world and in turn even get the attention of a sitting president.
The Pen or Pencil program has a list of specific projects that the youth can sign up for and implement in their local community. When we commit to work together and partner with our young people we will see results. Once the rally was over, we had almost half of the youth in the auditorium sign up to enroll in the PEN or PENCIL program, I might have been surprised by their enthusiasm for service but history certainly was not.
Submitted by: Djuan Coleon, Show Me the Way Foundation
On Oct. 5, 2009 at Martin Luther King Jr High School in Lithonia, GA (a suburb of Atlanta) we gathered to energized and engage the youth about Service Learning. I chair the Show Me the Way Foundation (SMTWF) and we have partnered with the National Alliance of Faith and Justice (NAFJ) to roll out their service learning program called “Pen or Pencil”.
In a nutshell the program stresses the reality of the two buses that travel to two different destinations each day. One bus goes to the PEN (penitentiary) the other bus goes to the PENCIL (school/education). The youth have a choice to decide which bus they want to get on. President Obama has been stressing education and the need for America to step up the academic standards of not only our schools but the students themselves must strive to lead the world, and we can’t do it by dropping out.
The 2009 Pen or Pencil/SNCC High School Tour Presented by SMTWF, is a 20 school tour throughout the metro area of Atlanta, GA focused on the challenge of the alarming rates of teen violence in metro-Atlanta communities and the staggering number of high school dropouts. Tashawnya Menefee, President of SMTWF, has evolved the focus of the organization (HIV/AIDS and youth mentoring) in 2009-10, due to the statistics facing our youth to now push service learning to actively engage the issues in the community. The Tour is scheduled to run through 2010, tackling head-on the question “What can the youth do to HEAL THE HOOD”. One of the major issues in Atlanta and in many metropolitan areas across the country is the lack of funding for after school programs and extra curricula activities. Teen agers have a lot of bottled up enthusiasm and creativity that is not being channeled in a positive manner.
- 82.6% of incoming freshman report frequent or occasional volunteer work, compared to 81% last year, and a low of 66% in 1989. Contributing in part to this rise is the requirement of community service for graduation from many high schools, which has increased from 23.2% to 28.2% since the item was first asked in 1998. (UCLA/Higher Education Research Institute Annual Freshmen Survey, 2001)
- 72% of young adults say they have donated money, clothes, or food to a community or church organization in the past couple of years. (Center for Democracy & Citizenship, 2002)
- 59.3% (13.3 million teenagers ages 12-17) volunteer, versus 49% of the adult population over the same time period. Teens say they volunteer an average of 3.5 hours per week versus the adult average of 4.2 hours. (Independent Sector/Gallup, 1996)
Statistics show that the youth are already energized and invigorated and if given the opportunities and the tools they are more than willing to answer the clarion call by our President and “be the change they want to see”.
I will be honest I did not know what to expect when we launched the tour on Oct. 5th 2009, I was wondering how would we connect with the youth with what we had. In the last few months Atlanta has seen a rash of murders of high profile people and college students to senseless violence. The community is on edge and everyone is pointing fingers but now is the time for solutions.
The PEN and PENCIL program’s methodology is from SNCC (Student Non Violent Coordinating Committee), this iconic grassroots civil rights organization from the 1960’s was a true youth movement for change and a blueprint for constructive organizing. We hoped to take the organizing strategies, wisdom and passion from the youth over 55 of that era and pass those ideals down to the young people under 25 of today.
We had Constance Curry the first white woman on the executive board for the organization (SNCC), to come in and speak from her experiences. She explained how the youth of that time were the catalyst for the march on Washington, D.C. they were the backbone of the Civil Rights movement.
It was when President Kennedy saw the youth taking a stand in Birmingham, AL he decided to end segregation. The youth in the auditorium were riveted as one speaker and presentation after another reinforced the fact that they have the power to change their world and in turn even get the attention of a sitting president.
The Pen or Pencil program has a list of specific projects that the youth can sign up for and implement in their local community. When we commit to work together and partner with our young people we will see results. Once the rally was over, we had almost half of the youth in the auditorium sign up to enroll in the PEN or PENCIL program, I might have been surprised by their enthusiasm for service but history certainly was not.
October 09, 2009
U.S. Congress Expresses Support for Service-Learning and the Learn & Serve Challenge
Your efforts to raise awareness and build public support for service-learning are working.
Service-learning and the Learn & Serve Challenge were featured on Yahoo News and are also currently featured on the front page of the White House service website.
But it doesn't stop there.
Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed House Resolution 769 in support of the National Learn & Serve Challenge. The resolution publicly recognizes the benefits of service-learning in helping youth become stronger students in the classroom and more engaged citizens in the community. The resolution was introduced by Representative Todd Platts (R-PA) and cosponsored by Representatives Matsui (D-CA), Kennedy (D-RI), Ehlers (R-MI), and Price (D-NC).
You can view H.Res 769 here.
You can view the news release from Rep. Platts here.
Now, it's the U.S. Senate's turn.
On Wednesday, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 46. Sen. Murray was joined by Senators Bayh (D-IN), Cochran (R-MS), Collins (R-ME), Dodd (D-CT), Feingold (D-WI), Gillibrand (D-NY), and Mikulski (D-MD).
You can view S.Con.Res 46 here.
If your Senator is not a current co-sponsor of the Senate resolution in support of service-learning and the National Learn & Serve Challenge, share your service-learning success story and ask her or him to co-sponsor Senate Concurrent Resolution 46. You can reach these members by calling the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121.
How To Reach Your Senators
1. Call the Capitol Hill switchboard (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to your senator.
2. Once connected, ask to talk with the member's staff responsible education or national service issues.
3. Share with that staff member why your senator should support service-learning.
4. Encourage your senator to co-sponsor Senate Concurrent Resolution 46, which recognizes the benefits of service-learning and the Learn and Serve America program.
If interested in co-sponsoring the resolution, the staff member can contact Sarah Bolton in Sen. Murray's office at (202)224-2621 or via email.
As we wrap-up the kick-off week of the 2009-2010 National Learn & Serve Challenge, it is so important to let Congress know that service-learning works and we care. Contact NSLP Policy Director, Ace Parsi if you have questions or need more information.
Finally, remember to Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year. Accept the Challenge here!
*********************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
* American Association of Community Colleges
* American Association of State Colleges and Universities
* America's Promise Alliance
* Campus Compact
* DECA
* Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
* National Alliance for Faith and Justice
* National Community Education Association
* National Education Association
* National Youth Leadership Council
* National Parent Teacher Association
* SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
* Usher's New Look Foundation
* Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
Service-learning and the Learn & Serve Challenge were featured on Yahoo News and are also currently featured on the front page of the White House service website.
But it doesn't stop there.
Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed House Resolution 769 in support of the National Learn & Serve Challenge. The resolution publicly recognizes the benefits of service-learning in helping youth become stronger students in the classroom and more engaged citizens in the community. The resolution was introduced by Representative Todd Platts (R-PA) and cosponsored by Representatives Matsui (D-CA), Kennedy (D-RI), Ehlers (R-MI), and Price (D-NC).
You can view H.Res 769 here.
You can view the news release from Rep. Platts here.
Now, it's the U.S. Senate's turn.
On Wednesday, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 46. Sen. Murray was joined by Senators Bayh (D-IN), Cochran (R-MS), Collins (R-ME), Dodd (D-CT), Feingold (D-WI), Gillibrand (D-NY), and Mikulski (D-MD).
You can view S.Con.Res 46 here.
If your Senator is not a current co-sponsor of the Senate resolution in support of service-learning and the National Learn & Serve Challenge, share your service-learning success story and ask her or him to co-sponsor Senate Concurrent Resolution 46. You can reach these members by calling the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121.
How To Reach Your Senators
1. Call the Capitol Hill switchboard (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to your senator.
2. Once connected, ask to talk with the member's staff responsible education or national service issues.
3. Share with that staff member why your senator should support service-learning.
4. Encourage your senator to co-sponsor Senate Concurrent Resolution 46, which recognizes the benefits of service-learning and the Learn and Serve America program.
If interested in co-sponsoring the resolution, the staff member can contact Sarah Bolton in Sen. Murray's office at (202)224-2621 or via email.
As we wrap-up the kick-off week of the 2009-2010 National Learn & Serve Challenge, it is so important to let Congress know that service-learning works and we care. Contact NSLP Policy Director, Ace Parsi if you have questions or need more information.
Finally, remember to Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year. Accept the Challenge here!
*********************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
* American Association of Community Colleges
* American Association of State Colleges and Universities
* America's Promise Alliance
* Campus Compact
* DECA
* Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
* National Alliance for Faith and Justice
* National Community Education Association
* National Education Association
* National Youth Leadership Council
* National Parent Teacher Association
* SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
* Usher's New Look Foundation
* Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
October 08, 2009
News from Around the Challenge
The National Learn & Serve Challenge Kick off is in full swing!
If anyone is participating in the Learn & Serve Challenge to raise awareness of service-learning? Give a shout out! #lschallenge.
Also, please send your news stories, pictures and the like to us.
We started the week with rousing support from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Thanks to CNCS, a supporter of the Challenge since 2007!
Several other state commissions have dedicated pages on their websites to the National Learn & Serve Challenge. Please visit Maryland and Michigan for more ideas. Kudos to these states for their excellent work! (If your state already has something set up, please send a link to us to feature on this blog!)
We also have to give a shout out to a local DC event for the Challenge. George Washington University kicks off the Challenge on Saturday, October 10th in the Marvin Center room 404 from 2:30-4pm. Attend to learn how you and other members of the GW community can collaborate to combat poverty in DC.
If anyone is participating in the Learn & Serve Challenge to raise awareness of service-learning? Give a shout out! #lschallenge.
Also, please send your news stories, pictures and the like to us.
We started the week with rousing support from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Thanks to CNCS, a supporter of the Challenge since 2007!
Several other state commissions have dedicated pages on their websites to the National Learn & Serve Challenge. Please visit Maryland and Michigan for more ideas. Kudos to these states for their excellent work! (If your state already has something set up, please send a link to us to feature on this blog!)
We also have to give a shout out to a local DC event for the Challenge. George Washington University kicks off the Challenge on Saturday, October 10th in the Marvin Center room 404 from 2:30-4pm. Attend to learn how you and other members of the GW community can collaborate to combat poverty in DC.
October 07, 2009
Important Policy Update From NSLP's Policy Director!
Dear Service-Learning Advocates:
My name is Ace and I’m the Policy Director for NSLP. First, thank you so much for our support of service-learning and our organization. I write you because we need your help in nurturing key relationships in Congress. These relationships are very important as we promote policies that give more youth in this country meaningful opportunities to engage in service-learning.
Recently, the House of Representatives passed a resolution that recognized the benefits of service-learning in helping youth become stronger students in the classroom and more engaged citizens in the community. The resolution was introduced by Rep. Todd Platts (R-PA) and cosponsored by Reps. Matsui (D-CA), Kennedy (D-RI), Ehlers (R-MI), and Price (D-NC). Shortly, after this resolution passed through the US House, the Senate introduced its own resolution under the leadership of Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA). The initial co-sponsors of this resolution are Sens. Bayh (D-IN), Cochran (R-MS), Collins (R-ME), Dodd (D-CT), Feingold (D-WI), Gillibrand (D-NY), and Mikulski (D-MD). If you are represented by one of these members of the House or Senate (especially Rep. Platts and Sen. Murray), please call them, thank them for their support, and encourage them to continue to promote service-learning as they craft the nation’s education policy. If you know of other advocates for service-learning represented by these members, please let them know as well. If your Senator is not a current co-sponsor of this resolution, this might be a great opportunity to call them, share your stories, and ask them to co-sponsor. You can reach these members by calling the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121. It's a critical time for service-learning and it is so important to let Congress know that service-learning works and we care. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you again for your support and for working with us to redefine education in the 21st century.
In service,
Ace
--
Ace Parsi
Policy Director
National Service-Learning Partnership
My name is Ace and I’m the Policy Director for NSLP. First, thank you so much for our support of service-learning and our organization. I write you because we need your help in nurturing key relationships in Congress. These relationships are very important as we promote policies that give more youth in this country meaningful opportunities to engage in service-learning.
Recently, the House of Representatives passed a resolution that recognized the benefits of service-learning in helping youth become stronger students in the classroom and more engaged citizens in the community. The resolution was introduced by Rep. Todd Platts (R-PA) and cosponsored by Reps. Matsui (D-CA), Kennedy (D-RI), Ehlers (R-MI), and Price (D-NC). Shortly, after this resolution passed through the US House, the Senate introduced its own resolution under the leadership of Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA). The initial co-sponsors of this resolution are Sens. Bayh (D-IN), Cochran (R-MS), Collins (R-ME), Dodd (D-CT), Feingold (D-WI), Gillibrand (D-NY), and Mikulski (D-MD). If you are represented by one of these members of the House or Senate (especially Rep. Platts and Sen. Murray), please call them, thank them for their support, and encourage them to continue to promote service-learning as they craft the nation’s education policy. If you know of other advocates for service-learning represented by these members, please let them know as well. If your Senator is not a current co-sponsor of this resolution, this might be a great opportunity to call them, share your stories, and ask them to co-sponsor. You can reach these members by calling the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121. It's a critical time for service-learning and it is so important to let Congress know that service-learning works and we care. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you again for your support and for working with us to redefine education in the 21st century.
In service,
Ace
--
Ace Parsi
Policy Director
National Service-Learning Partnership
National Education Association Joins the Challenge!
The National Education Association encourages 3.2 million teachers to accept the National Learn & Serve Challenge
This week, the National Education Association (NEA) encouraged its members to engage students in service-learning activities to support classroom instruction. The NEA is the nation's largest professional organization, representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers. You can learn more about the NEA here.
An article in support of the National Learn & Serve Challenge appears on the front page of NEA Today, the online version of NEA's flagship publication. You can view the article here.
In addition to the article and a statement sent to its 3.2 million members, NEA President Dennis Van Roekel appears in a video message, titled "Applying Knowledge through Service." You can view the video on NEA's website.
You can also view President Van Roekel's message on the front page of the Learn & Serve Challenge website.
"We are thrilled and honored that the NEA has joined this growing national effort to increase service-learning in our nation's schools," said National Service-Learning Partnership Executive Director Nelda Brown. "We share NEA's belief that every young person in America deserves a quality education. We look forward to bringing the service-learning message to even more teachers and more classrooms through this exciting collaboration to support the Learn & Serve Challenge."
Here are a few easy ways you can use this message to spread the word about service-learning in your school or local community:
1. Share the link to the NEA Today article with colleagues.
2. Show NEA's video message "Applying Knowledge through Service" at your next faculty meeting.
3. Visit NEA Today on Facebook to thank them for the cover story and to urge them to write more stories about the power and potential of service-learning in future issues.
4. Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year.
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm© Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
American Association of Community Colleges
American Association of State Colleges and Universities
America's Promise Alliance
Campus Compact
DECA
Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
National Alliance for Faith and Justice
National Community Education Association
National Education Association
National Youth Leadership Council
National Parent Teacher Association
SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
Usher's New Look Foundation
Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
This week, the National Education Association (NEA) encouraged its members to engage students in service-learning activities to support classroom instruction. The NEA is the nation's largest professional organization, representing 3.2 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators and students preparing to become teachers. You can learn more about the NEA here.
An article in support of the National Learn & Serve Challenge appears on the front page of NEA Today, the online version of NEA's flagship publication. You can view the article here.
In addition to the article and a statement sent to its 3.2 million members, NEA President Dennis Van Roekel appears in a video message, titled "Applying Knowledge through Service." You can view the video on NEA's website.
You can also view President Van Roekel's message on the front page of the Learn & Serve Challenge website.
"We are thrilled and honored that the NEA has joined this growing national effort to increase service-learning in our nation's schools," said National Service-Learning Partnership Executive Director Nelda Brown. "We share NEA's belief that every young person in America deserves a quality education. We look forward to bringing the service-learning message to even more teachers and more classrooms through this exciting collaboration to support the Learn & Serve Challenge."
Here are a few easy ways you can use this message to spread the word about service-learning in your school or local community:
1. Share the link to the NEA Today article with colleagues.
2. Show NEA's video message "Applying Knowledge through Service" at your next faculty meeting.
3. Visit NEA Today on Facebook to thank them for the cover story and to urge them to write more stories about the power and potential of service-learning in future issues.
4. Accept the Challenge. Let us know you're committed to engaging youth and college students in service-learning activities this school year.
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm© Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation's schools, college campuses, and communities.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
American Association of Community Colleges
American Association of State Colleges and Universities
America's Promise Alliance
Campus Compact
DECA
Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
National Alliance for Faith and Justice
National Community Education Association
National Education Association
National Youth Leadership Council
National Parent Teacher Association
SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
Usher's New Look Foundation
Youth Service America
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
October 06, 2009
Let the Learn & Serve Challenge Begin!
Dear service-learning supporters and fans,
Let the 2009-2010 National Learn & Serve Challenge begin!
This week, more than 71,000 young people, educators, community partners, civic leaders, and business partners will participate in activities to build awareness and public support for service-learning through the National Learn & Serve Challenge.
For two years, the National Learn & Serve Challenge was an opportunity to dedicate one week each year to promote and spotlight service-learning success stories around the country. This was made possible with support from the State Farm® Companies Foundation. Today, we are pleased to announce that the National Learn & Serve Challenge is now a nine-month initiative designed to increase service-learning in our nation's schools and communities.
This week, we continue to celebrate and spotlight service-learning in schools and communities nationwide. Check out the Challenge map to locate kick-off week events and activities in your state or local communities.
In addition, we will also kick off a national call to action that builds on President Obama's national call to service by challenging schools, college campuses, faith-based partners and youth-serving organizations to commit to engaging young people in service-learning this school year.
Through the Challenge, young people--from elementary to college age--will help rebuild and renew their local or global community by using the content knowledge and skills learned in the classroom or a community-based program to create and implement innovative solutions to problems within five priority areas:
* Community renewal, including responding to the economic crisis
* Education, including literacy and keeping kids in school
* Energy and the environment
* Health and nutrition
* Safety and security
Join this national grassroots effort to create more opportunities for young people to learn and serve.
Accept the Challenge. Let us know you are ready to engage young people in service-learning in your classroom, youth group, club, school, campus, faith-based or community organization. Invite your friends and colleagues to do the same.
Once you've accepted the Challenge, gear up for service-learning success. Access free online resources, lesson plans, planning tools and virtual professional development opportunities. Join us on Facebook to learn from and connect to others.
Click here for an overview of new National Learn & Serve Challenge, how it works and how you can get involved.
Accept the Challenge today.
It's not too late to do something this week to spread the word about service-learning in your school or community. Access the Challenge Kick-Off Week Toolkit for quick ideas and easy-to-implement activities you can use to promote service-learning this week.
Over the next several days, we'll continue to share updates and service-learning news stories from around the country as well as opinions and commentary from field leaders and voices from the field. Visit our Online Newsroom for the latest news and information.
Thank you for all you do to advance service-learning. Stay tuned for more information.
Nelda
Nelda Brown, Partnership Executive Director
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership at the Academy for Educational Development and made possible with support from the State Farm® Companies Foundation. The Challenge is supported by more than 100 local, state and national organizations. Click here for a complete list.
Let the 2009-2010 National Learn & Serve Challenge begin!
This week, more than 71,000 young people, educators, community partners, civic leaders, and business partners will participate in activities to build awareness and public support for service-learning through the National Learn & Serve Challenge.
For two years, the National Learn & Serve Challenge was an opportunity to dedicate one week each year to promote and spotlight service-learning success stories around the country. This was made possible with support from the State Farm® Companies Foundation. Today, we are pleased to announce that the National Learn & Serve Challenge is now a nine-month initiative designed to increase service-learning in our nation's schools and communities.
This week, we continue to celebrate and spotlight service-learning in schools and communities nationwide. Check out the Challenge map to locate kick-off week events and activities in your state or local communities.
In addition, we will also kick off a national call to action that builds on President Obama's national call to service by challenging schools, college campuses, faith-based partners and youth-serving organizations to commit to engaging young people in service-learning this school year.
Through the Challenge, young people--from elementary to college age--will help rebuild and renew their local or global community by using the content knowledge and skills learned in the classroom or a community-based program to create and implement innovative solutions to problems within five priority areas:
* Community renewal, including responding to the economic crisis
* Education, including literacy and keeping kids in school
* Energy and the environment
* Health and nutrition
* Safety and security
Join this national grassroots effort to create more opportunities for young people to learn and serve.
Accept the Challenge. Let us know you are ready to engage young people in service-learning in your classroom, youth group, club, school, campus, faith-based or community organization. Invite your friends and colleagues to do the same.
Once you've accepted the Challenge, gear up for service-learning success. Access free online resources, lesson plans, planning tools and virtual professional development opportunities. Join us on Facebook to learn from and connect to others.
Click here for an overview of new National Learn & Serve Challenge, how it works and how you can get involved.
Accept the Challenge today.
It's not too late to do something this week to spread the word about service-learning in your school or community. Access the Challenge Kick-Off Week Toolkit for quick ideas and easy-to-implement activities you can use to promote service-learning this week.
Over the next several days, we'll continue to share updates and service-learning news stories from around the country as well as opinions and commentary from field leaders and voices from the field. Visit our Online Newsroom for the latest news and information.
Thank you for all you do to advance service-learning. Stay tuned for more information.
Nelda
Nelda Brown, Partnership Executive Director
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership at the Academy for Educational Development and made possible with support from the State Farm® Companies Foundation. The Challenge is supported by more than 100 local, state and national organizations. Click here for a complete list.
October 05, 2009
Kick Off Day 1: National Learn & Serve Challenge
Today is the start of the third annual National Learn & Serve Challenge! We have news stories rolling in - please make sure that you send your stories to us at nslp@aed.org!
If you have not done so, make sure to register your Kick Off events here. We want to be able to capture all of the great things you all are doing out there!
Also, if your organization/school has not done so, be sure to join the Proud Partners list! You can do so here.
Click here to watch the President of National Education Association, Dennis Van Roekel, Accept the Challenge!
Be sure to tune in here for more exciting news during the Challenge Kick Off Week!
************************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
America's Promise Alliance, American Association of State Colleges and Universities, Campus Compact, Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse, DECA, National Alliance for Faith and Justice, National Community Education Association, National Education Association, National Youth Leadership Council, National Parent Teacher Association, SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network, Usher's New Look Foundation, Youth Service America.
If you have not done so, make sure to register your Kick Off events here. We want to be able to capture all of the great things you all are doing out there!
Also, if your organization/school has not done so, be sure to join the Proud Partners list! You can do so here.
Click here to watch the President of National Education Association, Dennis Van Roekel, Accept the Challenge!
Be sure to tune in here for more exciting news during the Challenge Kick Off Week!
************************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
Lead Organizing Partners include:
America's Promise Alliance, American Association of State Colleges and Universities, Campus Compact, Learn and Serve America's National Service-Learning Clearinghouse, DECA, National Alliance for Faith and Justice, National Community Education Association, National Education Association, National Youth Leadership Council, National Parent Teacher Association, SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network, Usher's New Look Foundation, Youth Service America.
September 22, 2009
Countdown to the 2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge Kick Off!
Dear Service-Learning Supporters,
We are only a few weeks away from the 2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge Kick Off, October 5-11, 2009. This year, the Challenge kick off will issue a national call to action to schools, college campuses and youth-serving organizations to commit to engaging a significant number of young people in service-learning activities that address the tough problems facing the country during the 2009-2010 school year.
In the past, the Learn & Serve Challenge focused on a week of publicity and outreach. Now, it is becoming a sustained, collaborative and focused effort to promote opportunities for elementary, middle, and high school age youth to be engaged learners and active contributors to society year-round.
The Challenge will kick off on October 5. It is not too late for you to join. Below are a few ways you can participate in the Learn & Serve Challenge today.
Register your Challenge Kick Off Event and become a participating Proud Partner. This will express your support for service-learning and Learn and Serve America.
Gear Up for the Kick Off
1. Host a service-learning t-shirt or button day at your school or organization. Visit the Learn & Serve Challenge Online Store where you may purchase buttons, t-shirts, and other items on an as-needed basis. Use the Host a Button or T-Shirt Day Activity Tip Sheet for more planning hints and good ideas.Host a Button or T-Shirt Day Tip Sheet
If you're looking for a cost-effective way to show your service-learning pride, create your own stickers using labels. Just email us to receive a copy of the Learn & Serve Challenge logos that you can use to create your own stickers, buttons, or t-shirts.
2. Make a presentation to your local school board and/or city council. Make sure service-learning is not the best kept secret in your school or community. Use the Challenge as an opportunity to make key leaders aware of how service-learning is transforming lives and improving schools and communities right in their own backyard. Download the Make a Presentation Activity Tip Sheet to learn more.
Board Presentation Tip Sheet
3. Include a service-learning update in your school or organization's newsletter or website. Download sample text for newsletters, email announcements, and website features.
Sample Text
4. Show the Bring Learning to Life Public Service Announcement or another service-learning video during an upcoming staff or board meeting. Make plans to show the video to local community leaders and civic or service clubs, such as the Chamber of Commerce, Lions, Kiwanis, or Rotary Clubs. Download the public service announcement to your computer or request a free copy today.
Accept the Challenge today!
Sincerely,
2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge Organizing Team
******************************************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation’s schools, college campuses, and communities. Lead Organizing Partners include:
America's Promise Alliance
American Association of State Colleges and Universities
Campus Compact
Learn and Serve America’s National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
National Alliance for Faith and Justice
National Community Education Association
National Education Association
National Youth Leadership Council
National Parent Teacher Association
SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
Usher’s New Look Foundation
Youth Service America
Find the 2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge on Facebook.
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
We are only a few weeks away from the 2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge Kick Off, October 5-11, 2009. This year, the Challenge kick off will issue a national call to action to schools, college campuses and youth-serving organizations to commit to engaging a significant number of young people in service-learning activities that address the tough problems facing the country during the 2009-2010 school year.
In the past, the Learn & Serve Challenge focused on a week of publicity and outreach. Now, it is becoming a sustained, collaborative and focused effort to promote opportunities for elementary, middle, and high school age youth to be engaged learners and active contributors to society year-round.
The Challenge will kick off on October 5. It is not too late for you to join. Below are a few ways you can participate in the Learn & Serve Challenge today.
Register your Challenge Kick Off Event and become a participating Proud Partner. This will express your support for service-learning and Learn and Serve America.
Gear Up for the Kick Off
1. Host a service-learning t-shirt or button day at your school or organization. Visit the Learn & Serve Challenge Online Store where you may purchase buttons, t-shirts, and other items on an as-needed basis. Use the Host a Button or T-Shirt Day Activity Tip Sheet for more planning hints and good ideas.Host a Button or T-Shirt Day Tip Sheet
If you're looking for a cost-effective way to show your service-learning pride, create your own stickers using labels. Just email us to receive a copy of the Learn & Serve Challenge logos that you can use to create your own stickers, buttons, or t-shirts.
2. Make a presentation to your local school board and/or city council. Make sure service-learning is not the best kept secret in your school or community. Use the Challenge as an opportunity to make key leaders aware of how service-learning is transforming lives and improving schools and communities right in their own backyard. Download the Make a Presentation Activity Tip Sheet to learn more.
Board Presentation Tip Sheet
3. Include a service-learning update in your school or organization's newsletter or website. Download sample text for newsletters, email announcements, and website features.
Sample Text
4. Show the Bring Learning to Life Public Service Announcement or another service-learning video during an upcoming staff or board meeting. Make plans to show the video to local community leaders and civic or service clubs, such as the Chamber of Commerce, Lions, Kiwanis, or Rotary Clubs. Download the public service announcement to your computer or request a free copy today.
Accept the Challenge today!
Sincerely,
2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge Organizing Team
******************************************************
The Learn & Serve Challenge is a signature event of the National Service-Learning Partnership in collaboration with the Corporation for National and Community Service. It is made possible with support from State Farm® Companies Foundation.
The Challenge is supported by nearly 100 local, state, and national organizations committed to engaging in service-learning in our nation’s schools, college campuses, and communities. Lead Organizing Partners include:
America's Promise Alliance
American Association of State Colleges and Universities
Campus Compact
Learn and Serve America’s National Service-Learning Clearinghouse
National Alliance for Faith and Justice
National Community Education Association
National Education Association
National Youth Leadership Council
National Parent Teacher Association
SEANet - the State Education Agency K-12 Service-Learning Network
Usher’s New Look Foundation
Youth Service America
Find the 2009 National Learn & Serve Challenge on Facebook.
For more information, visit the Challenge website or call (202) 884-8982.
September 14, 2009
Gear up for Giving with the Case Foundation!
Calling all nonprofits! NSLP invites you to Gear Up for Giving!
New to Twitter? Want to start a Cause on Facebook but not sure where to begin?
We know how daunting social media tools can be. That's why we're pleased to announce "Gear Up for Giving," a month-long series of social media tutorials for nonprofits, presented by the Case Foundation.
The training and resources, including live Q&A sessions with "Giving Gurus," online tools and other tips and tricks, are free and available to any nonprofit or individual.
Learn how to use social media to galvanize your network, raise awareness for your cause, and increase donations. Check out the schedule now and mark your calendar for the upcoming sessions!
The live online training sessions start September 10th and run until October 1st. Don't miss out!
Visit the Case Foundation for more information.
New to Twitter? Want to start a Cause on Facebook but not sure where to begin?
We know how daunting social media tools can be. That's why we're pleased to announce "Gear Up for Giving," a month-long series of social media tutorials for nonprofits, presented by the Case Foundation.
The training and resources, including live Q&A sessions with "Giving Gurus," online tools and other tips and tricks, are free and available to any nonprofit or individual.
Learn how to use social media to galvanize your network, raise awareness for your cause, and increase donations. Check out the schedule now and mark your calendar for the upcoming sessions!
The live online training sessions start September 10th and run until October 1st. Don't miss out!
Visit the Case Foundation for more information.
September 11, 2009
Remembering 9/11
Today is a day to remember and serve. Since others are doing a much better job at capturing what is happening today, I will simply post the links today:
Wisconsin Radio Network, September 11, 2009
WNCT, September 11, 2009
The Daily Orange, September 10, 2009
Greenville Sun, September 10, 2009
Business Wire, September 9, 2009
PNN Online, September 9, 2009
Point Pleasant Register, September 9, 2009
IT News Online, September 8, 2009
Press Connects, September 8, 2009
AJAX World Magazine, September 8, 2009
Wisconsin Radio Network, September 11, 2009
WNCT, September 11, 2009
The Daily Orange, September 10, 2009
Greenville Sun, September 10, 2009
Business Wire, September 9, 2009
PNN Online, September 9, 2009
Point Pleasant Register, September 9, 2009
IT News Online, September 8, 2009
Press Connects, September 8, 2009
AJAX World Magazine, September 8, 2009
September 10, 2009
National Conference on Citizenship: 09/09/09
For those of you who are superstitious, I hope that yesterday brought you good luck! I was fortunate enough to attend the National Conference on Citizenship yesterday. It warmed my heart to see so much social media being utilized. People blogged during the conference and tweeted at #NCoC. Sadly, I am behind the times with my phone, so I was unable to participate in the Twitter-fest.
Just a few observations about the day:
Former Senator Harris Wofford gave a tribute to the late Senator Edward Kennedy. Even though I really wanted to see Chris Matthews speak, former Senator Wofford did an admirable job - given the fact that he had very little notice.
In the Social Innovation in Civic Life panel, it was good to see the inclusion of fellow millennials like Barbara Bush and Justin Rockefeller, but I want to know if it is more difficult for those who do not have the same upbringing and connections to pursue their dreams and goals in civic life. As a side note, just a quick shout out to panelist Sonal Shah (the head of the White House Domestic Policy Council's Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation) - a fellow University of Chicago grad, who is doing great things in the Civic Engagement field!
Civic Health in Hard Times panel highlighted the Civic Health Index, which was much bleaker than the Volunteering in America report. More on this later. The highlight was former Senator Bob Graham explaining a great project. As I sat there, I realized that he was describing (good) service-learning without naming it! Yes!!
Conversation with Associate Justice Antonin Scalia was extremely interesting, not just because of his association with the University of Chicago (professor)! He said that all citizens should read the following the Constituation, the Federalist Papers, and de Tocqueville's Democracy in America. I will be posting parts of the conversation on our YouTube channel.
Naturalization Ceremony was incredibly moving, partially due to the fact that I was unable to attend my father's naturalization ceremony last summer. More pictures will be posted on the Partnership's facebook page.
Just a few observations about the day:
Former Senator Harris Wofford gave a tribute to the late Senator Edward Kennedy. Even though I really wanted to see Chris Matthews speak, former Senator Wofford did an admirable job - given the fact that he had very little notice.
In the Social Innovation in Civic Life panel, it was good to see the inclusion of fellow millennials like Barbara Bush and Justin Rockefeller, but I want to know if it is more difficult for those who do not have the same upbringing and connections to pursue their dreams and goals in civic life. As a side note, just a quick shout out to panelist Sonal Shah (the head of the White House Domestic Policy Council's Office of Social Innovation and Civic Participation) - a fellow University of Chicago grad, who is doing great things in the Civic Engagement field!
Civic Health in Hard Times panel highlighted the Civic Health Index, which was much bleaker than the Volunteering in America report. More on this later. The highlight was former Senator Bob Graham explaining a great project. As I sat there, I realized that he was describing (good) service-learning without naming it! Yes!! Conversation with Associate Justice Antonin Scalia was extremely interesting, not just because of his association with the University of Chicago (professor)! He said that all citizens should read the following the Constituation, the Federalist Papers, and de Tocqueville's Democracy in America. I will be posting parts of the conversation on our YouTube channel.
Naturalization Ceremony was incredibly moving, partially due to the fact that I was unable to attend my father's naturalization ceremony last summer. More pictures will be posted on the Partnership's facebook page.
Free Training: Community-Based Service-Learning - Sept 21 @ 2 PM Eastern Time
National Service-Learning Partnership and Youth Service California invite you all to participate in the Innovation Spotlight Series for Community-Based Service-Learning. This series focuses on the value and utility of service-learning in community organizations and faith-based groups who want to engage youth more effectively through service. This is an entirely free, online series running through September and will remain available online into the future. Here's how to engage in this series:
1) Visit NSLP Connections and join the Affinity Group for Community-Based Service-Learning. Create a profile to join this online community.
2) At the Affinity Group, you will see links to two YouTube videos to start the series:
Community-Based Service-Learning and Youth Development
and
Faith-Based Service-Learning
It is highly recommended to watch the Community-Based video first and then the Faith-Based video as the Faith-Based video builds on the first.
3) After you have watched these, please view the PowerPoint presentations, which you can download, use, and share with your colleagues--they can be found in the Documents section of the Affinity Group main page.
4) After watching the videos and PowerPoints (or whenever you feel moved), please take part in the discussions happening at the Affinity Group main page and at Youth Service California™s Blog. Questions will be posted periodically and feel free to pose your own!
5) Finally, as a capstone to the Innovation Series, we will host a Webinar on Sept. 21, 2009 at 2 PM Eastern Time, during which we will discuss the issues brought forth during the month and consider visions for the future. To participate on this day, follow these steps on Sept. 21st:
1. Go here.
2. Enter your name and email address.
3. Enter the meeting password: spotlight
4. Click "Join".
In addition, Youth Service California will archive all this information at its website.
For any questions or concerns, emailemail or call (510-302-0553) Brian Seilstad.
1) Visit NSLP Connections and join the Affinity Group for Community-Based Service-Learning. Create a profile to join this online community.
2) At the Affinity Group, you will see links to two YouTube videos to start the series:
Community-Based Service-Learning and Youth Development
and
Faith-Based Service-Learning
It is highly recommended to watch the Community-Based video first and then the Faith-Based video as the Faith-Based video builds on the first.
3) After you have watched these, please view the PowerPoint presentations, which you can download, use, and share with your colleagues--they can be found in the Documents section of the Affinity Group main page.
4) After watching the videos and PowerPoints (or whenever you feel moved), please take part in the discussions happening at the Affinity Group main page and at Youth Service California™s Blog. Questions will be posted periodically and feel free to pose your own!
5) Finally, as a capstone to the Innovation Series, we will host a Webinar on Sept. 21, 2009 at 2 PM Eastern Time, during which we will discuss the issues brought forth during the month and consider visions for the future. To participate on this day, follow these steps on Sept. 21st:
1. Go here.
2. Enter your name and email address.
3. Enter the meeting password: spotlight
4. Click "Join".
In addition, Youth Service California will archive all this information at its website.
For any questions or concerns, emailemail or call (510-302-0553) Brian Seilstad.
September 08, 2009
Enter Your School in the 2010 State Farm Companies Foundation Award for Service Learning Excellence in Teacher Education
Deadline: December 15, 2009
Teachers are at the heart of any successful effort to initiate, expand, or sustain service-learning in K-12 schools and communities. Teachers must be inspired and prepared to use service-learning as an instructional strategy in their classrooms.
As an increasing number of undergraduate programs and graduate schools of education begin to actively prepare educators to use service-learning as a pedagogy, we are learning more about effective practice and policies needed to support the implementation of service-learning in teacher education.
The National Service-Learning Partnership is pleased to join with the State Farm Companies Foundation and the International Center for Service-Learning in Teacher Education (ICSLTE) to honor teacher education programs that make a significant commitment to improving the quality of teaching and learning in preparing teachers and schools leaders to use service-learning as an instructional strategy.
The State Farm Companies Foundation Award for Service-Learning Excellence in Teacher Education acknowledges and honors outstanding teacher education programs that demonstrate significant interest and support for service-learning. This award recognizes exemplary practices, which include, but are not limited to:
- The demonstration of service-learning as a pedagogy in preparing teachers
- The development of P-12 school/teacher education partnerships that provide student teaching experience with service-learning.
- The effective teaching and implementation of K-12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice. Please see here for the official standards.
- The use of service-learning experiences with pre-service teachers in p-12 and/or other community settings
- The production of data that demonstrate the impact of service-learning on student outcomes
- The relationship of service-learning to the Principles of Good Practice for Service-Learning in Preservice Teacher Education.
Teachers are at the heart of any successful effort to initiate, expand, or sustain service-learning in K-12 schools and communities. Teachers must be inspired and prepared to use service-learning as an instructional strategy in their classrooms.
As an increasing number of undergraduate programs and graduate schools of education begin to actively prepare educators to use service-learning as a pedagogy, we are learning more about effective practice and policies needed to support the implementation of service-learning in teacher education.
The National Service-Learning Partnership is pleased to join with the State Farm Companies Foundation and the International Center for Service-Learning in Teacher Education (ICSLTE) to honor teacher education programs that make a significant commitment to improving the quality of teaching and learning in preparing teachers and schools leaders to use service-learning as an instructional strategy.
The State Farm Companies Foundation Award for Service-Learning Excellence in Teacher Education acknowledges and honors outstanding teacher education programs that demonstrate significant interest and support for service-learning. This award recognizes exemplary practices, which include, but are not limited to:
- The demonstration of service-learning as a pedagogy in preparing teachers
- The development of P-12 school/teacher education partnerships that provide student teaching experience with service-learning.
- The effective teaching and implementation of K-12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice. Please see here for the official standards.
- The use of service-learning experiences with pre-service teachers in p-12 and/or other community settings
- The production of data that demonstrate the impact of service-learning on student outcomes
- The relationship of service-learning to the Principles of Good Practice for Service-Learning in Preservice Teacher Education.
September 02, 2009
News Roundup: September 2, 2009
It is relatively quiet on the home front as we prepare for National Day of Service and Remembrance and the National Learn & Serve Challenge Kick Off week, but there is an undercurrent of excitement as we quickly approach these days.
Before I go into the selected news from the past week, I will quickly address some comments that have been posted to this blog. I understand that people are up in arms about anything related to service. Yes, you technically have the freedom of speech to call President Obama a socialist and/or communist. However, this sort of "speech" only further divides people and addresses no issues. Let's get a two things straight. First, socialism and communism are NOT the same thing. Secondly, we are a SERVICE-LEARNING blog! In this field, we are dedicated to service and public good. If we are offending you, then please, do not read this blog.
For those who are still interested in service-learning news:
Washington Post, August 30, 2009 - We are realizing more often that the faith based community has a huge influence on their constituents - especially with volunteerism. It's great to see United We Serve tackling this with Interfaith Service Week!
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, August 27, 2009 - This is great news! More people need to get involved in the National Day of Service and Remembrance - please see MyGoodDeed for more information.
Western News, August 27, 2009 - This group is not based in the United States, but it's still great to see more news about universities taking service and civic engagement seriously.
Michigan State University News, August 26, 2009 - The University will host service activities during this academic year and emphasized the importance of civic responsibility to their incoming freshmen. Kudos to all of the colleges and universities embracing service!
Before I go into the selected news from the past week, I will quickly address some comments that have been posted to this blog. I understand that people are up in arms about anything related to service. Yes, you technically have the freedom of speech to call President Obama a socialist and/or communist. However, this sort of "speech" only further divides people and addresses no issues. Let's get a two things straight. First, socialism and communism are NOT the same thing. Secondly, we are a SERVICE-LEARNING blog! In this field, we are dedicated to service and public good. If we are offending you, then please, do not read this blog.
For those who are still interested in service-learning news:
Washington Post, August 30, 2009 - We are realizing more often that the faith based community has a huge influence on their constituents - especially with volunteerism. It's great to see United We Serve tackling this with Interfaith Service Week!
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, August 27, 2009 - This is great news! More people need to get involved in the National Day of Service and Remembrance - please see MyGoodDeed for more information.
Western News, August 27, 2009 - This group is not based in the United States, but it's still great to see more news about universities taking service and civic engagement seriously.
Michigan State University News, August 26, 2009 - The University will host service activities during this academic year and emphasized the importance of civic responsibility to their incoming freshmen. Kudos to all of the colleges and universities embracing service!
The Kennedy Edition (November 7, 1962 – August 25, 2009)
August 25, 2009 was an extremely sad day for the service field (in my opinion, for the world as well), as we lost one of our most vocal and supportive champions. Senator Edward M. Kennedy will be greatly missed, and we can honor his memory by moving forward with the work. The below articles will show that, with all of his faults aside, he was beloved, respected, admired, and that his work will carry on.
USA Today, August 29, 2009 - This profiles several of Senator Kennedy's former staffers who followed him into public service.
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, August 27, 2009 - Shirley Sagawa, who the Partnership loves, writes about Senator Kennedy's legacy and her own interactions with him.
ServiceNation, August 27, 2009 - Be The Change, Inc. CEO Alan Khazei's statement.
The Examiner, August 27, 2009 - Liz Barrett's tribute to Senator Kennedy.
Wausau Daily Herald, August 27, 2009 - Tribute to Senator Kennedy.
Corporation for National and Community Service, August 26, 2009 - CNCS Board Chair Alan Solomont's Official Statement.
Youth Today, August 26, 2009 - Senator Kennedy's legislative legacy.
Huffington Post, August 26, 2009 - A touching article about how Senator Kennedy inspired Deborah Weinstein.
The Examiner, August 26, 2009 - Senator Kennedy and the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
StandardNet, August 26, 2009 - Interesting article about Senator Hatch and his opinion on the health care reform bill and the impact of losing Senator Kennedy.
The Chronicle of Higher Education, August 26, 2009 - Remembering the impact of Senator Kennedy on the higher education world.
USA Today, August 29, 2009 - This profiles several of Senator Kennedy's former staffers who followed him into public service.
The Chronicle of Philanthropy, August 27, 2009 - Shirley Sagawa, who the Partnership loves, writes about Senator Kennedy's legacy and her own interactions with him.
ServiceNation, August 27, 2009 - Be The Change, Inc. CEO Alan Khazei's statement.
The Examiner, August 27, 2009 - Liz Barrett's tribute to Senator Kennedy.
Wausau Daily Herald, August 27, 2009 - Tribute to Senator Kennedy.
Corporation for National and Community Service, August 26, 2009 - CNCS Board Chair Alan Solomont's Official Statement.
Youth Today, August 26, 2009 - Senator Kennedy's legislative legacy.
Huffington Post, August 26, 2009 - A touching article about how Senator Kennedy inspired Deborah Weinstein.
The Examiner, August 26, 2009 - Senator Kennedy and the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
StandardNet, August 26, 2009 - Interesting article about Senator Hatch and his opinion on the health care reform bill and the impact of losing Senator Kennedy.
The Chronicle of Higher Education, August 26, 2009 - Remembering the impact of Senator Kennedy on the higher education world.
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