Community Service-Learning | Housing

Community-Service Learning 

Want to make a difference in your local, national, and global community? Take advantage of the awesome opportunities, events, and programs through Community Service-Learning (CSL). The mission of CSL is to “prepare the JMU community to be educated and enlightened citizens committed to positive social change by providing reflective experiential opportunities with diverse community partners”. So, what does that mean, exactly? Service-learning is different than community service and is an excellent way to apply what you’re learning in the classroom to what’s happening outside the classroom. Let’s take a look at a few of the ways in which you can learn, serve, and engage within the Harrisonburg community and beyond.

Alternative Break Program

The Alternative Break Program (ABP) facilitates and supports student-led groups to participate in short-term service trips to locations through the United States and abroad. Although the majority of these trips fall over Spring Break, trips are offered during every JMU academic break. If an extended traveling experience isn’t ideal for you, CSL also coordinates Alternative Weekend Break trips. To learn more about the ABP options and to sign up, check out the ABP website.

Community Service Placements 

If you’d like to make a commitment to a semester- or year-long opportunity to serve in the local Harrisonburg community, this is your chance! CSL has identified a variety of local community agencies in need and categorized them into areas: Aging and Health Services, Community Wellness and Environmental, Disability Services, Early and Elementary Education, Environmental Stewardship, Exceptional Education, Hunger and Housing, and Youth Education and Services.

Housing

Tuesday Tips: Where will you live next year?

Even though it seems like the year just started, it’s time to start planning for the 2015-2016 school year. 

1. If you are interested in living on campus next year, submit a Housing Application! Housing Applications go live on Monday, October 6 at 1:15 pm. By submitting a Housing Application, you are letting the Office of Residence Life know you are interested in living on campus next year, and you can be made a Housing Contract offer by our office. If you choose to sign a Housing Contract, you will be able to pick your room and your suitemates/roommates in the spring! Plus, there’s no security deposit to pay!

2. Check Out The Apartments on Grace Street. Our brand new apartment style building is a great option for students who want to experience apartment living with all the benefits of living on campus. Each apartment comes with a kitchen, fully furnished living room and bedroom(s), and either 1 or 2 bathrooms. Plus, all units are wifi and cable ready, and all utilities are included in your room rent! . Read more here: http://www.jmu.edu/orl/our-residence-halls/apartments-on-grace-street.shtml

3. Don't Rush Into a Lease. If you are unsure of where you want to live or if you are unsure of where to start contact Off Campus Life. OCL can answer your questions about all the housing options in Harrisonburg. 

4. Check out the Off-Campus Housing Fair taking place on October 6 from 11a-2pm in the Festival, Lower level to ask questions and learn about all the off-campus housing options in Harrisonburg.