There are many opportunities for students to volunteer their services in the community. The mission of the Edward E. Carlson Leadership and Public Service Center, located in 34 Communications Building, is to foster the preparation of undergraduates for effective lives as engaged citizens. The office coordinates the University's service learning programs, co-curricular tutoring programs and a clearinghouse of internship and community service opportunities. Service learning integrates community service into a number of UW courses in a broad variety of departments including geography, ethnic studies, chemistry, English, and sociology. In these courses, students have the option to volunteer at an agency whose work relates to the course themes.
In the co-curricular tutoring programs, administered through the Pipeline Project, teams of students work with elementary school children in several local schools which serve homeless and other children who are at risk.
The internship and community service clearinghouse is a self-help resource guide to opportunities with hundreds of organizations, including government agencies, businesses, nonprofits and schools in all sectors of the community, locally, nationally and internationally.
Weekly orientation sessions provide students guidance in identifying volunteer or internship opportunities that are related to their goals, interests and availability, and explain how to earn academic credit. The office encourages student service initiatives and collaborates with student groups in the development of service projects and programs. For more information, contact the Carlson Center at 543-2618 or e-mail leader@u.washington.edu.