Community and Social Development through Service
Community service and involvement are
integral parts of development in an individual’s life. My own life
has been shaped widely by committing myself to public service, and
earlier this year I spent four months living and volunteering in the
country of Uganda. That experience coupled with the many other ways I
have been involved in service in my local community have shaped my
ambitions for the future. Because of these experiences I have come to
the conclusion that it is imperative that we continue to make people
aware of service and involvement opportunities in the hopes of
securing a bright future for ourselves and our communities.
Involvement in service programs and
organizations benefits more than the interest group being served. The
individual who gives their time and efforts to volunteer receives, in
return, invaluable experiences and compassion for his or her
community creating a well-balanced and positive citizen. A large
number of volunteer and service hours are registered every year
according to the Corporation for National and Community Service Fact
Sheet. Also, service learning, as a part of our curriculum in high
schools and colleges, sets an unparalleled standard that develops
truly global citizens. The facts speak for themselves.
*Research shows:
- When young people participate in service, they are more likely to continue on a pathway of lifelong civic engagement.
- Service learning contributes to students’ success and has a positive impact on their social behavior, habits, and attitudes.
Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the
change you want to see in the world.” For this reason I have
decided to pursue a career in Public Service. I know that through my
desire to serve I can influence others to do the same.
That is the kind of change that I want to be in the world. I
have witnessed first hand while living in a third world country that
if we can affect even a small difference on a local level, the change
that takes place will serve as a catalyst for larger works that can
have an effect on our national and international community.
*Community Service and Service
Learning in America’s Schools. A Report by the Corporation for
National and Community Service.
