“Be not simply good; be good for something."
~ Henry David Thoreau

The programs of the Underwood Stryker Institute for Service-Learning strengthen the community and promote academic learning, personal growth and civic responsibility among our students. Some course-based service-learning projects only occur during a 10-week quarter; most projects are ongoing and take place within the context of reciprocal partnerships with not-for-profit agencies, public schools, government entities and grassroots efforts. Many partnership endeavors span both academic service-learning and co-curricular work in order to provide continuity and cohesiveness.

More than 600 Kalamazoo College students work in the community every year, most through service-learning courses. But each year approximately 200 students are engaged in ongoing projects outside of courses. They earn minimum wage through federal work study placements or work as “volunteers,” committing to at least three hours per week throughout the term. Most work the full academic year.  These ongoing co-curricular programs are coordinated (and frequently designed) by Kalamazoo College student leaders, who hold Civic Engagement Scholarships.   Many others also hold Americorps scholarships.  All students who participate in service-learning programs are required to attend structured reflection sessions and workshops in order to learn from their community experiences and connect them to issues of social justice.  

Two blocks from campus, K students tutor in the classroom and after school, prevent playground bullying, develop nutrition curriculum, and work with kids in the garden.

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