Center for Community Engagement & Service Learning: General Information

History of The Center

In May of 2005, two former university-based programs, the Community Action Program (CAP) and the Center for Service Learning and Civic Engagement (CSLCE) merged to create the new Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning.

The Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning is an important next step in DU’s evolution to becoming “a great private university dedicated to the public good.” The Center is charged with providing seamless support and coordination for all of DU’s public good work. Our staff is dedicated to sharing their expertise with students, faculty, staff and members of the community.

The Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning is a University-wide organization dedicated to the creation, design, development, processing and implementation of public good work. In this capacity, the Center:

Directs academically-based community service at DU by:

• Cultivating service-learning opportunities for students, supporting faculty efforts to incorporate service-learning experiences into their courses, and facilitating the systematic integration of service learning throughout the University;

• Providing technical assistance to faculty who integrate community-based research and/or service learning into their courses; managing the University’s pilot Marsico Engaged Department Program.

Oversees the University’s co-curricular community programs by:

• Developing domestic and international Alternative Break programs for spring break and winter and summer interterms;

• Connecting students with opportunities to obtain financial aid through involvement in AmeriCorps, the Community Work Study program, and the Puksta Scholars program;

• Managing all aspects of DU volunteerism, including development and implementation of campus-based activities and coordination of programs, events or projects conducted off-site;

• Advising issue-based student organizations and providing input on issue-based initiatives.

Enhances the University’s ties to the local and global communities by:

• Developing long-term, strategic partnerships with community organizations;

• Working with community partners to create programs and initiatives that address community needs;

• Providing opportunities for students, faculty and staff to do public good work;

• Enhancing awareness of global and community issues through lectures and special events.

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