Explore meaningful ways to give back to the community, grow personally, and build lasting connections.
Be Good. Do Good.
Understanding the Differences
Community Service vs. Service Learning vs. Philanthropy
- Community Service:
- Volunteerism and community service performed by students for community benefit. This service can be, but is not necessarily integrated with a particular program of study. This may include structured projects (days of service), smaller group projects, fund-raising events, or individual volunteerism, which is acknowledged by the campus.
- Service Learning:
- A credit-bearing educational strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience and strengthen communities.
- Contact the Office of Experiential Learning to learn more about Service learning
- A credit-bearing educational strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience and strengthen communities.
- Philanthropy:
- Most commonly associated with monetary donations or resource contributions. Philanthropy supports charitable causes, nonprofit organizations, and long-term solutions to social issues. While it may not always involve direct engagement like community service, philanthropy plays a critical role in sustaining the organizations and initiatives that make service possible.
Benefits to participating in service opportunities
- Personal Growth
- Builds leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Civic Engagement
- Encourages lifelong habits of service and social responsibility.
- Career Development
- Help students explore career paths and build upon résumés.
- Networking
- Connects students with peers, faculty, staff and local organizations.
Looking to Get Involved in Service?
Explore community and service learning opportunities both on and off campus through Laker Life.
💬 Questions? Reach out to Jennifer Joyce or Kevin O'Connor—They're here to help!
Signature SUNY Oswego Service Programs
Annual Events
- Fall and Spring Days of Service: Join other Lakers in local projects that support SUNY Oswego and Oswego County nonprofits and community partners.
- MLK Day of Service: The Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service is a day of volunteerism held every spring semester, encouraging students, faculty and staff to honor Dr. King’s legacy by engaging in acts of service that strengthen and advance our communities.
