Community Service Learning

Community Service Learning (CSL) is a type of experiential learning in which students engage in purposeful and structured learning experiences in partnership with non-profits or public organizations that meet a need identified by the community. The experiences provide reciprocal benefits for both the students and their community partners, and enhance students’ learning and development through the practice of critical self-reflection. The aim is to provide opportunities for students to extend their learning into the community and contribute to addressing social issues by applying their skills and knowledge. We do this through curricular and co-curricular programs.

Co-curricular

Co-curricular Community Action Projects occur outside of registered courses and are open to any current students. Opportunities come in a variety of durations, with different expectations and responsibilities.

Reading Break volunteer program

Will you be staying in Kelowna over the November reading break? Join other UBC students in making a difference in the community by volunteering!

Opportunities are open to all current students; no previous experience required. Volunteering allows you to build connections, gain experience, and help strengthen your community.

Registration for November reading break is now closed. Check back with us soon for opportunities over the winter break.

Action for Climate Team (ACT)

Our Action for Climate Team (ACT) facilitates projects that foster human and environmental wellbeing. Community Service Learning and the Sustainability Office are partnering with additional departments and community organizations to develop opportunities for UBC students at the Okanagan campus to contribute to meeting campus emissions reduction goals, and to tackle climate change as a community. ACT volunteers can participate in events, activities, and projects of their choosing, and may have a chance to create a project of their own.

Registration is now closed. Please reach out us at cslp.okanagan@ubc.ca for more information.

Donation Drive for Pop-Up Free Store

Want to support a circular economy and give back to the UBCO community? The Action for Climate Team is collecting new or gently-used items for our Winter Pop-Up Free Store. This Pop-Up Free Store is looking for warm clothing and accessories particularly, but also accepting small household items, games, school supplies, etc.  The Winter Free Store will be held November 16 and 17 in Sawchuk Family Theatre. Please bring donations to one of our donation bins on campus, located in:

• UNC first floor, near main staircase
• The Gym, across from the front desk area
• Commons, across the hall from Comma Cafe
• EME first floor, near Tower 1 staircase
• CCS first floor, near ramp
• Fipke first floor, near staircase

Live in residence? We have a donation bin in Nechako near the mailboxes. We also have donation bins located in Veda Living buildings on Academy Way for your convenience.

Curricular

Curricular projects are done in partnership with faculty and community organizations to offer CSL opportunities as part of coursework, meaning that students participating in a course with a CSL component will earn credit for their projects.

Check the Course Schedule for current CSL curricular offerings.

Recent courses that have included CSL projects include APSC 176, CORH 321, and SUST 202.