Academic Civic Engagement

Welcome to the Academic Civic Engagement Resource Center!

The civic engagement initiative works to forge connections between the academic curriculum and the Portland community.

We define Civic Engagement as a "course-based, credit-bearing educational experience that allows students to (a) participate in an organized service activity that meets identified community needs and (b) reflect on the service activity in such a way as to gain further understanding of course content, a broader appreciation of the discipline, and an enhanced sense of civic responsibility." - Bringle & Hatcher, 1995

Contact: Katelyn Hale, Civic Engagement Coordinator sponsored by Americorps VISTA.

Why Civic Engagement?

Students Gain:

• Knowledge, skills, and practical "real world" experience

• Opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world settings

• Exposure to career choices and vocational directions

• On-site training

• Networking opportunities with staff, clients, community members, and fellow volunteers

• A chance to make a difference and contribute to efforts that benefit the Portland community

Community-Based Organizations Gain:

• Enthusiastic, intelligent, capable, and creative volunteers

• Partnership with Lewis and Clark

• Access to resources

• Input on how to target services to youth, young adults, and their communities

• Opportunity to educate students about the mission and work of the organization

• Positive exposure in the community

Lewis and Clark Gains:

• Motivated students

• Expanded learning opportunities

• Partnerships with community-based organizations

• Access to community resources

• Positive exposure in the community

(Based off of Serve Minnesota's "Partner Power" Manual)