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The Volunteer Connection Center strives to enhance student development through the promotion and advancement of civic engagement.  The Center offers a wide range of service initiatives, which provides students with the opportunity to connect with their community, increase their level of social consciousness, explore the causes of different social issues, and gain cultural competence. 

Through direct service, education and reflection, it is intended that students will realize and understand the importance of civic responsibility, explore ways in which they can impact their community and society, and become active citizens.

While serving as the clearinghouse for service opportunities and as a campus resource, the Center empowers students, faculty and staff to create initiatives that will address the assets and needs of the greater Springfield communities.  To model sustainable social change, emphasis is also placed on creating mutually beneficial partnerships with local agencies.   Such relationships demonstrate the College’s commitment to working with the community to educate students about the complexities of the world in which they live.

If you are interested in volunteering by yourself, with a group or with a club or organization, you can stop by my office or set up an appointment to learn about the different service opportunities in the Springfield area. 

Campus Center, room 249B
rgage@wnec.edu
413-782-1638 (from campus dial extension 1638)

Since there are over 100 different community service agencies in this area, I would recommend the following:

  • Think about the issues that you would like to explore (i.e. children and adolescents, hunger and homelessness, etc.)
  • How many people are interested in participating in service?
  • How long would you or members of your organization like to participate in service (one-time event vs. ongoing)?
  • Are you interested in fulfilling one of your LBC requirements through service?
  • What would you like to gain from this experience?

I look forward to talking with you soon!!

Rose Gage
Assistant Director of Learning Beyond the Classroom (Community Involvement)