Become engaged in the community around you.
- Have you been serving all throughout your life with an organization? Let us connect you with the Columbus-area affiliate.
- Do you have an interest in volunteering with a specific population or for a certain cause? We know the communities partners in those areas.
- Have no idea where to start? Let us introduce you to hundreds of opportunities.
Want to find out more?
Visit the Student and Community Engagement office in the Harry C. Moores Student Union.
Sign up for weekly emails about upcoming service projects and volunteer days.
Like us on Facebook to get the most current information on service opportunities.
What kinds of opportunities are there?
Student and Community Engagement Fair
Join the SCE each fall for an evening of 'meeting and greeting' at our annual SCE Fair. Student organizations and community partners alike will set up tables with information about membership, volunteering and local outreach opportunities.
Saturday Service Series
You provide the service, we provide the transportation. Saturday Service events are an easy way to get started with community service. A member of the SCE team leads each Saturday Service experience at a variety of locations several times a month. Past locations have included the YWCA, The Open Shelter, Lutheran Social Services Food Pantry and the Ronald McDonald House.
Homelessness and Hunger Awareness Week
Each fall we come together as a University to explore the critical issues of homelessness and hunger, in the Greater Columbus area, nationally and globally. Activities are designed to raise awareness and help students become part of the solution. This week is also home to the famous Capital Cardboard City, where students spend a night outside with cardboard boxes as their only protection from the elements.
Coat Drive and Tree Lighting
Throughout the month of November, the SCE hosts the annual Coat Drive for faculty, staff and students to donate new or gently used coats, gloves, hats and scarves. The Capital University Tree Lighting is the culminating event where all goods collected are donated to The Open Shelter.
World AIDS Day
This event coincides with the national date in December and may include various AIDS awareness activities such as free HIV testing, speakers, movies and discussions and a candlelight vigil.
MLK Day Service Project
Each year, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion brings the campus and community together to celebrate the life and message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In 2012, the SCE and First English Lutheran Church came together to host a community breakfast on MLK Jr. Day to provide a meal for those who may not have any other options for this holiday when many local agencies are closed.
Crusader Day of Service
Held annually in April, Crusader Day of Service is our end-of-year community service celebration. Students, faculty and staff connect with various community partners to provide service throughout the city of Columbus.
Alternative Spring Break Trips
Spend Spring Break in service. Trip destinations and purposes change annually.
Ladies of Distinction Mentorship Program
Capital University partners with Mifflin Middle School to provide mentorship to middle school girls in seventh and eighth grades. Mentors and their students meet weekly and discuss a range of topics including self-esteem and self-image, goals/future plans, respect for others and more.