Service-Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities. service-learning Me and my girlfriend spending time with a camper.

 Through service-learning, young people—from kindergarteners to college students—use what they learn in the classroom to solve real-life problems. They not only learn the practical applications of their studies, they become actively contributing citizens and community members through the service they perform.  Service-learning can be applied in a wide variety of settings, including schools, universities, and community-based and faith- based organizations. It can involve a group of students, a classroom or an entire school. Students build character and become active participants as they work with others in their school and community to create service projects in areas such as education, public safety, and the environment.  Community members, students, and educators everywhere are discovering that service-learning offers all its participants a chance to take part in the active education of youth while simultaneously addressing the concerns, needs, and hopes of communities. service-learning

 Service learning is very beneficial and it has helped me adapt to helping young children.  Benefits for Youth Participants  Youth who participate in high-quality community-based service- learning are likely to benefit in a number of ways (Chung, 1997; Coe-Regan et al, in press; Lewis-Charp et al., 2003; Tannenbaum, S. C., 2007; and YMCA of the USA, 2004):  Young people gain access to the range of supports and opportunities (or developmental assets) they need to grow up healthy, caring, and responsible. One study of youth civic activism found that these settings had particular strength in cultivating youth and community involvement (Lewis-Charp et al., 2003).  based-service-learning Hanging Out

 Increased sense of self-efficacy as young people learn that they can impact real social challenges, problems, and needs.  Higher academic achievement and interest in furthering their education.  Enhanced problem-solving skills, ability to work in teams, and planning abilities.  Enhanced civic engagement attitudes, skills and behaviors. Many leaders in public service today speak about how they were nurtured, inspired, and shaped in early experiences in community service or volunteering. benefits-community-based-service-learning

 My service-learning project was done at Camp Little River in Pearson, GA. I was a counselor at the camp and spent time with children throughout the week. It was very fun, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Camp Little River

 Service-learning not only allows you to help others but it also allows you to work with others.  Service-learning helps a person understand the needs of others. Me and a camper playing air hockey.

 I really enjoyed service-learning, and I really hope to help out with more service-learning projects.  Service-learning was fun and I enjoyed every minute of it. I think that it is something that everyone should do. Spending time with campers

 Learning to help children.  Working with other counselors.  Using teamwork to watch over the children and keep everybody safe. Helping a camper up a slide.