The purpose of the Student Volunteer Center (SVC) is to enhance volunteer opportunities by establishing a cooperative effort between the community and EIU, encouraging a heightened awareness toward social responsibility and promoting practical service learning experiences integrating Catholic Social Teaching.
After School Program
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
3:30p.m. - 5:00p.m.
Volunteers work to develop young children ages 4-12 with active and creative minds, a sense of understanding and compassion for others, and the courage to act on their beliefs. Attention is given to the total development of each child: spiritual, moral, intellectual, social, emotional, and physical.
Alternative Spring Break
Students, faculty, and community members spend one week serving others in areas throughout the United States. The various sites offer such opportunities as: working with the homeless, working in schools and camps, serving immigrants, and working to improve and maintain forests. ASB applications will be available by November at the SVC office.
Amigos and Friends
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
10:00p.m.
Volunteers work to embrace our non-English-speaking community by teaching English as a Second Language. We provide extended support to our students and understand the cultural and educational differences that may obstruct the learning process. As an open-minded and accepting organization, all individuals are encouraged to participate in the program as students or as teachers.
Mission Trips
In the spirit of solidarity and compassion for the downtrodden, students are encouraged to participate in mission trips to various locations in and outside of the United States. Past groups have traveled to New Orleans, St. Louis, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Mexico, and Haiti, offering their hands and hearts in an effort to work for justice and peace. Opportunities will be advertised on a regular basis.
Nursing Home Visits
Volunteers enjoy time with seniors through going for walks, playing games, reading with them, singing, sharing meals, and good conversation. Visits are once a week with a 'special event' one Saturday a month.
Open Arms
Students and community members organize and participate in various advocacy events, working to inspire others to embrace life as they touch hearts through their works and prayers.