Service Learning Program
Service Learning immerses elementary, middle, and high school students in experiences that enhance their awareness and engagement with community needs. By integrating projects that complement the school curriculum with specific lessons on relevant topics, students learn to identify community issues and take informed actions to address them.
Participating in these projects helps students enhance their social awareness, self-esteem, and relationship skills through constructive peer interactions. These activities also develop critical thinking and creativity by encouraging students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world challenges. Students not only acquire practical skills and explore new interests that could influence their future career paths, but they also witness the tangible impact of their contributions to their community. This hands-on involvement fosters a sense of satisfaction from helping others and deepens their connection to their local community, reinforcing the principles of responsible citizenship.
For more information about partnering with HandsOn Suburban Chicago on a Service Learning Project, contact Montana Lechner, Manager of School Programs, at montana@handsonsuburbanchicago.org. Please provide your group’s size and age range, budget, and timeframe. HOSC will work with you to find a project that meets your parameters. Projects can be as small as a lesson plan or as large as a school-wide day of service.
Service Learning projects support students’ volunteer hours to qualify for scholarships and assist in qualifying for the Harper Promise Scholarship.
Service Learning Benefits
Community Impact
Our Service Learning Program proudly partners with Wheeling Community Consolidated School District 21, Consolidated Community School District 15, and Township High School District 214.
Personal Growth
Through service learning, students cultivate character values, responsible behavior, and a sense of civic responsibility. They gain social awareness, empathy, and compassion by interacting directly with real-life challenges and individuals.
Academic Enhancement
Incorporating service projects into the curriculum improves learning outcomes. Students develop problem-solving skills and apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. This hands-on experience also sharpens their critical thinking abilities.
Leadership and Communication
Service learning enhances leadership qualities and communication skills. Students work collaboratively with diverse groups, learning about teamwork and effective interaction..
Our Partners
Our Service Learning Program proudly partners with Wheeling Community Consolidated School District 21, Consolidated Community School District 15, and Township High School District 214.
HOSC School Programs
Our school programs provide equitable opportunities for low-income, high-risk elementary and middle school students to succeed in high school. These programs improve the grades, attendance, and social and emotional well-being of students – many of whom have limited English proficiency and receive special education – leading to successful transitions to high school. We achieve this by holistically addressing student and family needs with an integrated multi-tier support system combining tutoring, mentoring, behavioral health services, and case management in collaboration with community partners.