2.  Service-learning is a method of teaching, learning and reflecting that combines academic classroom curriculum with meaningful service, frequently youth service, throughout the community. http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/service+learning

3.  Increase your understanding of the class topic  Gain hands-on experience (possibly leading to an internship or job later)  Explore or cement your values and beliefs

4.  Have opportunities to act on your values and beliefs  Develop critical thinking and problem- solving skills  Grow your understanding of diverse cultures and communities  Learn more about social issues and their root causes

5.  Improve your ability to handle ambiguity and be open to change; become more flexible  Develop or enhance your skills, especially in the areas of communication, collaboration, and leadership  Test out your skills, interests, and values in a potential career path, or learn more about a field that interests you

6.  Connect with professionals and community members who you will learn from  Grow a professional network of people you might connect with again later for jobs or internships  Satisfy your urge toward public service or civic participation http://www.servicelearning.umn.edu/info/benefits.html

7.  The Doug Henderson III Memorial Fund was founded in memory of a young man who lost his fight with cancer in 2003. But through support from family, friends, and the community; Doug’s legacy will be one of the great contributions of spirit and gifts to his hometown.  In the golf tournament’s first 6 years, it has raised over $210,000 in donations that went back into Valdosta’s community.

8.  Vallotton is a place where young kids play different sporting events. It has playgrounds and refreshment stands.  The experience of volunteering with Vallotton was great. I got to clean the park making it clear the pollution from liter. I also had the advantage of helping some of the younger children by practicing t-ball. I loved working with the kids.

9.  By doing community service through service-learning I have gained experience in areas I would otherwise know nothing about. I have enjoyed working with my own community through ways of helping others.