Our Mission

The mission of the Community Service and Civic Engagement Program at Champlain College is to provide the encouragement, resources and support that allow our students to become responsible, respectful and engaged citizens—locally, nationally and globally.

Leadership

Our students have the energy, creativity and competencies to make a very real and lasting contribution to our world. As leaders, Champlain students nourish and evoke the best qualities—creativity, commitment and caring—in others as well as in themselves.

Service

Service gives students an understanding of how to become effective professionals and global citizens by contributing their time and talent for the betterment of the community. It is a very personal practice of self-examination as students discover what they really care about and what gives meaning to their work.

Mentorship

Champlain students have a wealth of life experiences to share. By being good listeners and by paying attention, they model positive choices and promote personal and academic success.

Partnership

Through shared leadership and reciprocity, students learn to become active members of the community and make a positive contribution. They work together with other individuals and groups to understand the pressing issues of their community such as poverty, hunger, homelessness, illiteracy, injustice and health and environmental issues.

Reflection

Action is only one step in creating change. After students perform active service, they take time to reflect upon their experiences to learn from them and to ensure that their actions align with their commitments.

Dialogue

With the goal of creating a safe and just community, students engage in simple conversation that involves truly listening to one another. The art of dialogue allows each person to hear and to be heard.