CSS students can make a difference in the community through Service Learning. From intergenerational projects and community activities to sustainability enterprises, students are challenged to become change agents while developing critical-thinking skills, knowledge and values in preparation of future leadership roles.
Ranging from large programs to individual site placements ranging from a few hours to hundreds of hours per semester, these high-impact options include community-based research, service learning, fieldwork, practicum and internships that enable students to apply classroom learning in real-world settings and to reflect on their experiences – all while emphasizing ʻāina-based approaches to Hawaiian and Oceanic places of learning. A few popular programs include:
- Mālama I Nā Ahupuaʻa (MINA) – Work with elders and stewards of the land to care for Native Hawaiian cultural sites, protect native ecosystems and to learn about sustainability and food security from an indigenous perspective.
- Pālolo Pipeline – Support the education pathway and community building by Pacific Islanders and Southeast Asian youth and their families – many of whom are recent immigrants.
- No Mo’ Haus’ – Support dignity for the houseless and work with them and their service providers to mentor and tutor children and youth, serve meals, and care for urban food gardens.
- Oceanic Connections – Help improve living conditions for Pacific native and immigrant groups in Hawaiʻi – primarily by challenging racism and discrimination, and by improving their health, education, housing and employment.
- Policy and Social Justice – Learn about political and social processes by assisting groups engaged in championing social change. Work with government agencies and institutions, as well as community organizations dedicated to social change and social movement documentation.
Next Steps
Let us help you find the right site. View current Service Learning and Civic Engagement opportunities available to CSS students, see us at the office (Dean Hall 6) or email us at csssl@hawaii.edu.
- Both new and returning service-learning students must register online at the start of each semester.
- The registration form will give you additional information and access to the program’s Laulima site, which is the repository for the documents required for doing service learning. There, you will also find detailed information to help you complete your service-learning experience.
- Feel free to contact us with questions and suggestions.
Organizations interested in establishing Service Learning or Civic Engagement programs, or faculty interested in incorporating these options within their academic courses, may contact the program directly.
For questions about Service Learning, please contact:
