About Service Learning

Service learning is a teaching method that supports students to learn and apply academic, social, and personal skills to improve the community, promote personal and professional growth, and become better citizens. The ICYF offers service learning experiences that prepare students for careers with or on behalf of children, teens, adults, and people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Service learning recognizes that people learn best by applying knowledge and theory to practice. Students do this by serving the community, while learning from experienced service providers and from the clients and community members themselves.

The Institute for Children, Youth & Families, in cooperation with the Division of Family Studies and Human Development, offers a service learning internship for FSHD majors and minors. The internship matches students with community agencies serving children, teens, and families.

ICYF service learning programs help students to:

• Gain valuable experience working with individuals and families
  
• Apply classroom knowledge to practical problems in the field
  
• Address important social issues
  
• Enhance professional and personal growth
  
• Earn credits toward graduation
  
• Complete a competitive career experience to include on a résumé
  
• Work toward career or personal goals
  
• Reflect on experiences through writing, speaking, discussion, and special projects

For more information about ICYF Service Learning Programs, please explore our website. Learn what it is like to work in the field by reading stories by our interns. Get the application for an internship, learn more about our partner organizations, or get information about upcoming workshops. You may also contact our Service Learning Coordinator for more information.