Community Service Learning (CSL) is a form of experiential learning that connects course content with community engagement. Through CSL, students apply academic concepts in meaningful ways while contributing to community-identified opportunities. These connections help foster collaborations between Saint Mary’s University (SMU) and community organizations, empowering our community partners to become co-educators while benefiting from fresh perspective and volunteer-based support from SMU students.
SMU Community Partners (CP) are identified local organizations who have committed to providing Saint Mary's students with relevant learning opportunities, both in person and virtually. Working exclusively with not-for-profit organizations, publicly funded institutions and social enterprises, CSL pairs CPs with CSL-integrated courses in relevant fields for mutually beneficial experiences and impactful outcomes.
Collaborating with Saint Mary’s Community Service Learning program offers meaningful opportunities to support your organization’s goals while contributing to student learning and development.
Your expertise and mentorship are valued as a key part of the learning experience, helping students apply their knowledge in community-based settings while contributing to your mission.
CSL students can provide additional support to help advance projects, increase services, and accomplish goals within your organization.
Students bring creativity, enthusiasm and innovative thinking, offering new approaches and energy to the meaningful work Community Partners are engaged in.
Many CSL students develop strong ties to their placement organizations, with a remarkable 20% of CSL engaged students electing to continue volunteering with the CP beyond the course requirements.
Partnering through CSL helps foster ongoing collaboration with Saint Mary’s University, opening doors to future partnerships, resources and shared impact.
Are you interested in incorporating Community Service Learning into your organization? We would love to connect with you!
If you’re ready to get the process started to become a CSL Community Partner reach out to the Community Service Learning Placement Coordinator by email at novella.nicchitta@smu.ca. The Placement Coordinator will reach out to set up a time to meet and discuss ways to tailor CSL into your organization.
Are you interested in incorporating Community Service Learning into your course? The CSL office is here to support you!
If you are interested in incorporating CSL into your course, the Community Service Learning Placement Coordinator can provide support with everything, including but not limited to the following: