Many student organizations are formed with specific projects and activities in mind, yet others are looking for exciting, meaningful service projects to tackle. Picking such a project is a very important task and should be well thought out, discussed and agreed upon by all members involved.

Brainstorming possible service projects and benefactors is one way to stimulate involvement. Be creative, yet practical, when discussing what type of service project your organization wants to undertake and to whom you will offer this service. Keep in mind that projects can be on-going or one-time-only, group or individual efforts and that donations need not be monetary. They can be in the form of volunteer hours, use of a vehicle or building, articles and items no longer of use to you but still useful and usable, canned food collections, bucket drives, return bottle money, etc. All it takes is a friendly phone call notifying the establishment that you are interested in volunteering your services and/or donation. It is hard to refuse a friendly voice offering something free.

Possible Benefactors
Nursing homes, children homes, retirement homes, senior citizens programs and adult day care facilities welcome regular or periodic visitors. It is always a pleasure to receive visitors and an even bigger surprise when they come on a "regular" day; visiting need not be limited to holidays. Help with outings, visits to doctors and shopping expeditions may be appreciated too. Be sure to check about liability. Many day care centers and nursery schools are in need of volunteer assistance. These establishments may be able to use help in the form of labor, (i.e., painting, moving, spring cleaning, holiday decorating, entertainment) or companionship (depending on licensing and liability risks) to help with outings or field trips; tickets and passes to sporting events are also welcome by others.
Local churches, synagogues, religious organizations, service clubs and schools are always holding fund-raisers of one type or another.
Don't forget to check with other organizations right here on campus - perhaps they could use help with a phone-a-thon, bucket drive, blood drive or some other service project. Many of the above mentioned projects can be done either in a group or as an individual and can be fun events where everyone involved can experience personal satisfaction.

Consult with a staff member in the Student Activities Office or Student Leadership Programs for assistance.