How to Start a Student Community Service Group

Service groups give students a great way to give back to their communities and to make a difference in the lives of others. There are many different types of service groups.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Telephones
• Card Tables
• Art And Graphics Software
• E-mail

1. Form a small group of people who share your interest in community service.

2. Brainstorm ideas about how the group will be run and decide which services you'd like to focus on.

3. Start assigning positions. Choose one person to act as the president and sole representative of the group. Delegate other responsibilities, such as financial oversight, recruitment and publicity.

4. Contact your school administration to find out how to register a student group. This work may involve writing a constitution, filling out paperwork or attending one or more orientation meetings.

5. Publicize the group to increase participation. Flyers, information tables and e-mail announcements are effective methods of recruiting people on campus.

6. Contact local charities or other service institutions in need of volunteers. Ask about volunteer opportunities and how people can get involved. Be sure to explain that you're organizing a campus service group.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that homeless shelters, food banks and retirement homes often need volunteers. YMCAs and elementary schools often have after-school programs that require assistance.