Service learning is a method by which young people learn and develop through active participation in a thoughtfully organized service experience.

• That meets actual community needs.
• That is coordinated in collaboration with the school and community.
• That is integrated into each young person’s academic curriculum.
• That provides structured time for a young person to think, talk and write about what he or she did and saw during the actual service activity.
• That provides young people with opportunities to use newly acquired academic skills and use knowledge in real life situations in their own communities.
• That enhances what is taught in the school by extending student learning beyond the classroom.
• That helps to foster the development of a sense of caring for others.
• That provides opportunities for school-to-college or school-to-career transitions.