Service Learning

This semester’s Mercy College’s Faculty Conference day was about the importance of Service Learning and how to incorporate it into the classroom. In theory, it is learning is a cognitive process that takes place in a social context and can occur purely through observation or direct instruction, even in the absence of motor reproduction or direct reinforcement. (Source: Wikipedia).

Volunteering teaches:

• Gain confidence. 
• Make a difference.
• Meet people.
• Be part of a community. 
• Learn new skills. 
• Take on a challenge. 
• Have fun!

Many non-profits depend on volunteers to help with activities within their organization or the local community. A wise man once taught me, if you want a person to give, then be willing to give something in return.

At Guideposts, I definitely learned in the Outreach Ministry department to value a volunteer’s time given to help by rewarding them with recognition. For example, the gift doesn’t need to be elaborate, but just enough to say your listening and care. Whether it’s by a real phone call or by simply sending a thank you card of praise and affirmation for their service.

Each semester, as a teacher, I share about my different volunteer experiences with my students to encourage them to consider serving a worthy cause they feel compelled to help.

By blogging my volunteer reflections, others can read and understand the actual value of giving back. I found that this helps to see how far I come and the new relationships I have made along the way.

Service Learning reminds me of these two Bible verses:

Hebrew 13:16 Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.

Philippians 2:4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.