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The Importance of Community Service

Table of contents, fostering empathy and compassion, enhancing skill development, cultivating social responsibility, creating lasting change, connecting education to reality, building character and values, fostering lifelong commitment.

• Conclusion The importance of community service is an embodiment of humanity's capacity for compassion, empathy, and positive change. For students, community service offers a transformative journey that extends beyond the classroom, enriching their lives and the lives of those they touch. Through fostering empathy, enhancing skill development, cultivating social responsibility, creating lasting change, connecting education to reality, building character and values, and fostering a lifelong commitment, community service equips students with the tools and mindset needed to navigate an increasingly interconnected and complex world. As students engage in acts of service, they contribute to the creation of a more just, equitable, and compassionate society. They become agents of positive change, embodying the belief that even small actions can have a profound impact on the lives of others. In a world that often emphasizes individualism and competition, community service reminds us of our shared humanity and the power of collective effort. It serves as a reminder that each individual has a role to play in creating a better world, and that through service, we can leave a lasting legacy of kindness, empathy, and progress for generations to come.

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How to Write a Great Community Service Essay

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, writing an essay about community service.

I'm working on a college essay where I need to talk about my experiences related to community service. I've done some volunteering and projects, but I'm having a hard time putting it all into words. Any tips on how to approach this topic and make it impactful? Thanks in advance!

When writing an essay about community service, it's essential to focus on the impact of your experiences, personal growth, and how your service has contributed to the betterment of the community. Here are some tips on making your essay impactful:

1. Choose a specific experience: Instead of trying to cover all of your volunteer experiences, select one that has been particularly meaningful to you. This will allow you to delve deeper and provide more thoughtful insight into that particular experience.

2. Share your motivation: Include a compelling reason behind your involvement in community service. This can show your genuine interest in the cause and help your readers understand your dedication.

3. Show, don't tell: Use vivid imagery and descriptive language to paint a picture for your reader. Instead of simply listing your accomplishments, describe the emotions you felt, the people you interacted with, and the changes you observed.

4. Reflect on your growth: Discuss any challenges you faced during your community service and the lessons you learned. Share how the experience changed your perspectives, values, or beliefs, and how it has affected your personal and academic life.

5. Demonstrate the impact on the community: Highlight the tangible benefits your service provided to the community or individuals you served. This can be in the form of increased resources, improved quality of life, or educational opportunities.

6. Connect your experience to your future: Explain how your community service experiences have shaped your goals and aspirations. Show how your commitment to service will carry on into your college years and beyond, whether as part of your intended major, career, or lifelong dedication to giving back.

7. Edit and revise: Carefully proofread your essay to ensure it communicates your thoughts clearly. It's also a good idea to have someone else read your essay to offer feedback and suggestions.

By focusing on these aspects, your essay will stand out as a genuine and impactful account of your community service experience, showcasing your dedication to making a difference. Good luck with your essay!

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Tips for Writing a Standout Community Service Essay

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Through your college applications process, you’re likely to come across the term “community service” many times. In fact, you may be asked to write an essay about it. This post will cover the specifics of a community service essay and how to go about writing one, including what to cover and common mistakes to avoid. 

What is a Community Service Essay?

You may encounter the community service essay as you’re writing your supplemental essays for college. These are school-specific prompts that only go to the college that requests them, unlike the personal statement , which goes to every school you apply to. Not all schools require community service essays, but several do. It’s also a common requirement for scholarship applications, especially if it’s a school-specific merit scholarship. 

The community service essay is an essay that describes the initiatives you have taken outside of the classroom to benefit your community. In a 2018 survey of 264 admissions leaders across the US, 58% said that community service is a tie-breaker between students who are otherwise equally qualified. The community service essay offers you the opportunity to shine light on the work you have done to make an impact on the world and people around you, and is an additional way to help you stand out among other applicants. 

Approaching the Community Service Essay 

Understand the essay requirements  .

As with any essay, it’s important to first understand what is expected of your essay. For a start, elements to pay attention to include: 

• Length requirements
• Focus or subject of the essay prompt 
• Organization of the essay 

Although all community service essays ultimately have the same purpose of having you describe your local service activities, they can come with different types of prompts. Below are three sample prompts. Note the differences in topic specificity, length requirements, and breadth of the prompt. 

From the CGCS – Bernard Harris Scholarship Program: 

Please describe a meaningful volunteer or community service experience, including what you learned from participating.

From the University of California Application :

What have you done to make your school or your community a better place? (350 words).

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words.

Brainstorming for your community service essay 

Once you have an understanding of what is required of the specific you are to write, the next step is to brainstorm ideas for a specific topic. If you have various community-engaged service experiences under your belt, consider the following before you finalize your decision. 

The best topics:

Are substantial in length and scope. It’s better to cover a long-term commitment than a one-off afternoon at the food pantry or animal shelter. 

Are transformative or inspiring. Although community service is “others”-oriented, colleges are looking to learn more about you. The ideal community service essay topic should be an experience that changed or challenged your perspective, and was ultimately fulfilling. 

Illustrate personal qualities or passions that you want to highlight. Given the specific prompt, and taking the rest of your application into consideration, which personal interests do you want to highlight? Which activity illuminates the personal quality that you want to bring attention to? 

These are all elements to consider before you begin writing your essay. 

Tips for Writing Your Community Service Essay 

1. include anecdotes.

Anecdotes are a great way to begin your essay, not only as a way to grab your reader’s attention, but by launching right into the experience of your service activity. You can start with a line about a particularly busy afternoon at the orphanage, or a morning cleaning up the streets after a storm, or the sense of accomplishment you felt when you watched a dog under your care at the animal shelter get adopted. 

2. Show, don’t tell 

We’re sure you’ve heard this axiom of general writing before, but it applies to college essays just as much as with any other piece of writing. Opt for evocative examples over plain explaining whenever possible. Take this sentence: “There was a lot of food waste at our school cafeteria.” It’s not nearly as powerful as this description: “I peered into the tall, gray trash cans to inspect the mountain of Styrofoam trays and discarded food. There were countless pizza crusts, globs of green beans, and unopened cartons of milk.” 

Anyone could write the first sentence, and it’s not a unique experience. In the second description, we’re shown the scene of the writer’s lunchroom. We get a peek into their perspective and life, which makes the writing more vivid and relatable. Aim to bring your reader into your world as much as possible.

3. Share your responsibilities and accomplishments.

The more tangible your community service activities feel to the reader, the more powerful your essay will be. Concretize your work by stating the basic details of what kind of work you did and what your duties involved, where it was based, when you began working, and the amount of time you spent working. 

Be sure to quantify your work and accomplishments when possible; it’s better to say your fundraiser yielded 125 books than “a large number” of books. It’s important to also elaborate on why the work you did matters. Why was it important? Did the books you collected or purchased after the fundraiser expand the library of the local orphanage that they already had, or did it offer the children easy access to books that wasn’t available previously? Be specific and detailed.  

4. Highlight what you learned and how you’ll use those lessons moving forward. 

Towards the end of your essay, you’ll want to share how you benefited from the community service work you did. This is an important part of the essay, because it shows how you are able to distill your experiences to applicable lessons in your own life. 

Think of this section in two potential parts: skills you learned, and personal development. Did you gain any hard skills, such as public speaking, poster design, or funds management? Then think about how you developed as an individual. Are you more empathetic or patient now? 

Things to Avoid in Your Community Service Essay 

1. don’t list out everything that happened..

You want to keep your essay well-structured and concise. This isn’t a résumé, or a play-by-play of the entire experience. Stick to the most telling details and anecdotes from your experience. 

2. Avoid using a pretentious or privileged tone.

Humility goes a long way, and entitlement can be smelled from afar. The purpose of this essay is not to paint yourself as a savior of any kind, but rather to show what’s important to you in your non-academic life, and how you approach solving real-world and interpersonal problems. 

3. Avoid clichés.

It may be tempting to quote famous people, but doing so can easily seem like a shortcut, plus it shows little of who you are. Try also to steer clear of trite and vague life lesson lines such as “I learned that people can be happy with so little,” or “I learned the importance of giving back.” Not only do they carry a tone of privilege, they are also sweeping general conclusions and don’t convey anything specific of what you learned. 

Community service is only a part of the college application process, which can be daunting and confusing. CollegeVine will help you navigate each step of the process, from building a college list, to calculating your chances at each school using our chancing engine. Create your free account and get started now !

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Importance of Volunteerism Essay

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Need to write an essay about volunteering? Community service is a truly hot topic! This argumentative essay about the importance of volunteerism contains everything necessary to inspire you!

Introduction

Importance of volunteering.

It is so disappointing that many people within our societies do not know, understand or value the importance of services in the community by volunteering. Serving society is very important in helping to solve many problems, especially those that have been neglected by the government and other social programs.

Volunteering to serve the community is not only beneficial to the individuals involved, but it is necessary in creating better societies for all. For instance, community members may volunteer to clean up a town near them or feeder roads.

This way, all members benefit by living in a clean environment that is free from illnesses related to sanitation. By cleaning the compounds surrounding them, society members help promote the health of their young ones who are always playing, during which time they can eat anything on the ground which would have otherwise caused them serious infections.

Community work does not always revolve around environmental work, but it is equally important for the fortunate members of society to help those who are less fortunate. Community members may volunteer to offer gifts and other services to help the less fortunate ones.

For example, people may contribute goods such as clothes and food to help the street children who have no homes or take them to children’s homes from where they can be provided for. This way, the members of society will have helped others live a more and better comfortable life.

Especially young children will feel the love that they never got from their parents. This is essential in the growth and development of a child, and the assistance and love they receive from society will surely help them grow to be better adults in society (Landry 1).

Volunteer work in our societies basically involves sharing and friendship through which people can find out what others need so that they can work on assisting them in all ways possible. Through volunteer work, many people’s lives are changed, be it through words or material assistance.

For instance, a community may volunteer to help young people addicted to drugs where they organize meetings with them, and doctors or psychiatrists volunteer to talk to them about the effects of drugs as the community helps them avoid the vise by giving them jobs to keep them busy.

Being responsive to the needs of other people makes us realize and appreciate humanity and spiritual being, as well as feeling good for changing someone’s life. This can even help shy people gain self-esteem. Volunteering in society work helps in promoting and building our social obligations as human beings.

Through community volunteer work, people are able to respect each because they work together without any discrimination. Volunteerism can be thought of as a social capital where everyone is concerned for the well-being of others. It also helps create trust and confidence between society members and brings society together (McHenry 1).

A society where people volunteer and work together always faces fewer problems since all the members tend to get along well and support each when they are in need.

The security of society is also improved, especially through the rehabilitation of street children and drug addicts who are more likely to cause insecurity in society. By supporting each other, society members can live in harmony and be happier than those societies that do not work together.

Importance of Volunteering: FAQ

• What Is Volunteer Work? Volunteering is unpaid work done by a person to benefit the community. In other words, volunteering means that someone is giving their time to help an individual, a group of people, or a non-profit organization.
• Why Is Volunteerism Important? Volunteer work develops and improves the community. Besides, it is helpful for the one who deals with it. Volunteering can improve one’s mental health, reduce stress, and give meaning to their life.
• How Does Volunteerism Benefit the Community? Volunteering is related to the need for people to participate in their community and be important to others. Imbued with such values as reciprocity, solidarity, and mutual trust, it significantly improves the quality of life.

Works Cited

Landry, L. “The importance of volunteering.” 2002. Web.

McHenry, W. “ The Importance of Community Service . ” 2000. Web.

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Community Service Essays

Community service is a valuable and rewarding experience for many people. It allows individuals to give back to their communities, learn new skills, and make a positive impact on those in need. One of the key components of community service is choosing the right essay topic that will allow you to effectively communicate your experiences and the impact it has had on you. In this article, we will explore some of the best community service essay topics, and provide tips on how to write an essay that will resonate with your audience.

Choosing a Topic

When choosing a community service essay topic, it is important to consider the impact that the experience has had on you. Reflect on the skills you have developed, the people you have met, and the ways in which you have made a difference. These aspects will help you to choose a topic that is meaningful and impactful, and will allow you to effectively communicate your experiences to your audience.

Volunteering at a Homeless Shelter

One of the most popular community service essay topics is volunteering at a local homeless shelter. This experience allows individuals to work directly with those in need, and provides a firsthand look at the challenges facing the homeless population. When writing about this topic, it is important to focus on the ways in which you have made a difference, and the impact that the experience has had on you personally. You can also discuss the challenges you have faced, and the skills and knowledge you have gained as a result of your work at the shelter.

Working with Children in an After-School Program

Another popular community service essay topic is working with children in an after-school program. This experience allows individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of young people, and provides an opportunity to develop valuable skills in leadership, communication, and mentorship. When writing about this topic, it is important to focus on the ways in which you have helped the children, and the ways in which the experience has helped you to grow as a person. You can also discuss the challenges you have faced, and the lessons you have learned as a result of your work with the children.

Participating in a Community Clean-Up Project

One unique community service essay topic is participating in a community clean-up project. This experience allows individuals to work with others to beautify and improve their local community, and provides an opportunity to develop skills in teamwork, organization, and environmental stewardship. When writing about this topic, it is important to focus on the ways in which you have made a difference in your community, and the ways in which the experience has inspired you to become more environmentally conscious. You can also discuss the challenges you have faced, and the sense of pride and accomplishment you have gained as a result of your work on the clean-up project.

Community service is a valuable and rewarding experience that allows individuals to make a positive impact on their communities and develop valuable skills. When choosing a community service essay topic, it is important to consider the impact that the experience has had on you, and to choose a topic that is meaningful and impactful. By using relevant keywords and phrases, and writing a well-structured and organized essay, you can increase the likelihood that your work will be found and shared by others. By choosing the right community service essay topic, you can effectively communicate your experiences and the impact it has had on you.

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103 Community Service Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Community service is a fulfilling and impactful way to give back to society. It allows individuals to contribute their time, skills, and efforts for the betterment of their communities. Engaging in community service not only benefits the community but also provides personal growth and development opportunities. If you are required to write an essay on community service, choosing the right topic is crucial. To help you get started, here are 103 community service essay topic ideas and examples to inspire you:

• The impact of community service on personal development.
• How community service can bridge the gap between different social classes.
• The role of community service in reducing crime rates.
• The benefits of community service for mental health.
• How community service can help address homelessness.
• The impact of community service on youth empowerment.
• The role of community service in promoting environmental sustainability.
• The benefits of community service in building strong communities.
• The impact of community service on reducing substance abuse.
• How community service can help combat food insecurity.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local animal shelter.
• The role of community service in promoting education.
• The impact of community service on reducing social isolation among the elderly.
• How community service can promote cultural diversity and inclusion.
• The benefits of community service in disaster relief efforts.
• The role of community service in addressing domestic violence.
• The impact of community service on reducing teenage pregnancy rates.
• How community service can promote gender equality.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local hospital.
• The role of community service in promoting sustainable development.
• The impact of community service on reducing racial inequality.
• How community service can help individuals with disabilities.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local library.
• The role of community service in promoting healthy lifestyles.
• The impact of community service on reducing bullying in schools.
• How community service can promote access to healthcare.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local community center.
• The role of community service in promoting peace and harmony.
• The impact of community service on reducing juvenile delinquency.
• How community service can help veterans reintegrate into society.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local nursing home.
• The role of community service in promoting civic engagement.
• The impact of community service on reducing child poverty.
• How community service can promote entrepreneurship.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local food bank.
• The role of community service in promoting social justice.
• The impact of community service on reducing school dropout rates.
• How community service can help individuals with mental disabilities.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local youth center.
• The role of community service in promoting intergenerational connections.
• The impact of community service on reducing substance abuse among teenagers.
• How community service can promote access to clean water.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local homeless shelter.
• The role of community service in promoting human rights.
• The impact of community service on reducing income inequality.
• How community service can help individuals with autism.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local sports club.
• The role of community service in promoting disaster preparedness.
• The impact of community service on reducing gang violence.
• How community service can promote access to education for underprivileged children.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local community garden.
• The role of community service in promoting digital literacy.
• The impact of community service on reducing teenage suicide rates.
• How community service can help individuals with physical disabilities.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local arts organization.
• The role of community service in promoting sustainable transportation.
• The impact of community service on reducing human trafficking.
• How community service can promote access to affordable housing.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local after-school program.
• The role of community service in promoting cultural preservation.
• The impact of community service on reducing school violence.
• How community service can help individuals with learning disabilities.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local environmental organization.
• The role of community service in promoting gender equity.
• The impact of community service on reducing elder abuse.
• How community service can promote access to technology.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local museum.
• The role of community service in promoting renewable energy.
• The impact of community service on reducing human rights violations.
• How community service can help individuals with addiction.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local senior center.
• The role of community service in promoting cultural exchange.
• The impact of community service on reducing youth crime.
• How community service can promote access to affordable healthcare.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local community theater.
• The role of community service in promoting sustainable agriculture.
• The impact of community service on reducing discrimination.
• How community service can help individuals with mental health issues.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local youth mentoring program.
• The role of community service in promoting interfaith dialogue.
• The impact of community service on reducing child labor.
• How community service can promote access to clean energy.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local women's shelter.
• The role of community service in promoting peacebuilding.
• The impact of community service on reducing hate crimes.
• How community service can help individuals with chronic illnesses.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local sports camp.
• The role of community service in promoting sustainable tourism.
• The impact of community service on reducing political polarization.
• How community service can promote access to legal representation.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local children's hospital.
• The role of community service in promoting cultural integration.
• The impact of community service on reducing drug addiction.
• How community service can help individuals with visual impairments.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local community radio station.
• The role of community service in promoting water conservation.
• The impact of community service on reducing child abuse.
• How community service can promote access to vocational training.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local animal rescue organization.
• The role of community service in promoting intercultural understanding.
• The impact of community service on reducing gang recruitment.
• How community service can help individuals with hearing impairments.
• The benefits of volunteering at a local environmental clean-up initiative.

Remember, when choosing a topic for your community service essay, it is essential to select one that resonates with your interests and values. This will allow you to write passionately and authentically about the topic, making your essay more impactful and compelling. Happy writing!

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How to write the community service essay

Whether in an interview or an essay, all college applicants should be prepared to talk about the ways they have worked to improve their schools and communities. No college wants to admit a passive recipient of community, they would all much prefer to admit an active and engaged citizen who understands that community requires contribution. Use this essay to define a community (see the community essay for more examples of this) and then talk specifically about how you helped to make that community better. You have a lot of latitude here to define your terms and to define the boundaries of your engagement. Don’t pass up any opportunity to share your active citizenship. These essays will vary in length but are often a “mid-size” supplement of 250-350 words.

Example Community Service Questions:

• U of California: What have you done to make your school or community a better place?
• MIT: At MIT, we bring people together to better the lives of others. MIT students work to improve their communities in different ways, from tackling the world’s biggest challenges to being a good friend. Describe one way in which you have contributed to your community, whether in your family, the classroom, your neighborhood, etc.  
• Princeton: Princeton has a longstanding commitment to service and civic engagement. Tell us how your story intersects (or will intersect) with these ideals.

LET'S BREAK DOWN THE ESSENTIAL POINTS YOU NEED TO HIT WHEN RESPONDING TO THIS SUPPLEMENT:

This is an important question! If you have an option to select an essay question among several prompts, choose to write this essay! Why? Colleges want to know that you have made your community a better place. This makes you a compelling applicant. Why else? Because you have done something that can answer this question – even if to you, right now, it looks small in comparison to solving global challenges.

“Community” can be defined however you choose! Be sure to use a few words of this essay to outline the boundaries of the community you identify.

THINGS TO AVOID:

Additional tips and tricks:.

• Column 1: Identify the problem. Describe the challenge you were (or are currently) facing. The problem could be something global, like an environmental issue, or something more local, like a lack of creative opportunities in your high school.
• Column 2: Raise the stakes. Help us understand: Why was (or is) overcoming this challenge important? What might happen if this problem went (or goes) unchecked?  
• Column 3: Articulate the vision. What might the world look like if this problem were solved? Inspire us to dream with you.
• Column 4: Describe what you did. Tell us the specific things you (or you and your team) did to solve the problem.
• Column 5: Clarify your role.   Describe your particular involvement. Why were (or are) you crucial to the project’s or club’s success?
• Column 6: Share the impact you had, lessons you learned, or values you gained. Provide specific evidence that gives us a sense that your work mattered.

Don't forget to use active verbs! Additionally, you can absolutely re-use this essay (being mindful of word count) to respond to multiple community service prompts from different schools.

Elise holds a BA in Political Philosophy from Williams College and an MEd in Administration & Social Policy from Harvard. She has spent the past twenty years working in top-tier independent schools.

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Previous satellite ground architectures were custom designed for each satellite system. This methodology is typically called stove-piped architecture. Although there may have been valid reasons in the past for custom design of every satellite ground system, the newer trend is to design enterprise ground services (EGS), resulting in a common services infrastructure.

An EGS takes advantage of commonalities between seemingly different systems. This does not imply all future systems should be constrained to be identical; there will always be differences between systems requiring some degree of mission-unique software (MUS). The objective is to create a resilient, scalable, secure EGS for all aspects of the EGS, including flight operations as well as data processing and archival.

Once set up, the EGS will result in cost savings as new missions are added. For example, an EGS should contain established firewalls, software, etc., with security accreditations and approvals. Follow-on missions will benefit from the reduced cost of accomplishing accreditation and the accompanying reduced risk of schedule delays. Additionally, mission-unique capabilities and interfaces involving command/telemetry databases and space-ground communications can be simplified by common approaches across multiple missions to standards-based interfaces, including Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) recommendations and XML Telemetric & Command Exchange (XTCE). This discussion will look at methodologies to improve cost effectiveness of EGSs.

Essay About Service: Top 5 Examples and 9 Writing Prompts

Everyone has different meanings for what service is. If you want to write an essay about service by exploring its various definitions, here are helpful examples and ideas to consider.

Service is divided into three categories: personal, social, and business. First, personal services, such as recreational and restaurant services, are offered to customers depending on their needs. Second, non-government organizations or individuals give social services to help others in need. Lastly, companies offer business services to conduct their work activities.

Knowing and understanding these categories will assist you in creating high-quality essays on service. For example, your essay can include volunteerism and the effect of helping others. You can also write about the impact of good or bad customer service on businesses and others.

Do you want to be more convincing when writing your essay? Check out this guide on persuasive writing .

1. My Experience with Community Service by Tasha Flowers

2. the importance of customer service by anonymous on 123helpme.com, 3. helping others by geraldine bates, 4. community service isn’t just words by david lazar, 5. product and service by samantha patton, 9 essay prompts on service to write about, 1. service: defined, 2. the different categories of services, 3. benefits of excellent customer service, 4. why adapting to customer’s preference is important when providing services, 5. steps on how to deliver a great customer service, 6. interpret a community or social service, 7. your experiences in providing social or community services, 8. services in our daily lives, 9. lessons learned after providing services.

“I truly believe every cliche there is about volunteering: the giver receives even more than she gives, giving time can be more important than giving things, I believe it all.”

Flowers’ essay discusses her experience providing community service in the Kalaunan waste dump, where settlers, including children, need to scavenge garbage to sell. Her group’s community service is to teach children basic writing, reading, and introducing the gospel. The author notes that she will never forget the children’s smiles and thank yous.

“Customer service is taking care of your customers. Every customer needs to be treated the same with excellent customer service no matter the business or the customer’s age.”

In this essay, the author discusses why employees need to adapt to various customers to deliver the best experience. For example, poor customer service can make the company lose sales. In contrast, excellent customer service attracts more customers through positive word of mouth and recommendations.

“Altruism involves true selflessness. The sacrifice of one’s own welfare for the welfare of another is what this theory is about.”

Bates talks about two theories in her essay: Egoism and Altruism. Egoism is a theory that a person should only help another when he can receive something in return. Meanwhile, altruism is a belief that a person should take away the pain of others. When helping or providing services to others, one can’t be entirely egoistic or wholly altruistic. It’s a mix of the two theories.

“Community service isn’t just words, but an opportunity in life to contribute one’s time to helping others and making a difference in society, and thus a better place to live for all.”

Lazar notes how sharing what he learned in his life positively impacts other people’s lives. So, as he strives to become more educated and become a doctor, he hopes to give back by serving the community. People need support, and that’s what life is all about.

“A service is an intangible economic activity, not stored, and does not result in ownership. Services nowadays are becoming more important and growing faster, and consumers are more apprehensive with performance and satisfaction when they use a service or buy a product.”

Patton considers the difference between a product and a service. For a company to become successful, it must develop a strategy to enhance its profit through its product or services.

After reading the examples above, it’s now your turn to express and explore your view regarding the various types of services. Use the following essay prompts to help you find a specific track when writing about services:

Service is a very broad term. In your essay, you can discuss what service means to you and include other people’s definitions of service. You can ask people with varying experiences, such as your parents, teachers, or friends. Then, collate their meanings and yours to develop an integrated service definition.

You can be more precise with this prompt and choose a specific service category. For example, you can write about service from the point of view of a volunteer (social service) versus the perspective of a businessman (business service), then compare them – is one type of service better than the other? Why?

In today’s world, customers are more attracted to buy products or services when they are provided with excellent customer service. If you want to write an essay about business success, it’s vital to include the importance of customer service. Customer satisfaction has a significant impact on the success of the business. A customer’s feedback can either increase or decrease business sales.

Although some businesses have great products, if they have unreliable and unhelpful customer service, they’ll lose customers. Since different people may have various issues or will have different reactions to problems, you can write an essay about how and why customer service providers will need a more personalized approach when interacting with their customers.

Customer service has a significant impact on the buying decision of customers and attracts more potential sales. With that in mind, you can create an essay on how to deliver excellent customer service. This essay will be helpful for business owners and employees to enhance their services further.

What is considered community service? Is it still considered “volunteering” when imposed as a punishment? Feel free to incorporate instances when community service is not done right or not done at all.  If you don’t have personal experiences with this service, you can read or watch videos about other people’s experiences or stories to give substance to your essay.

Writing about your personal experiences makes your readers relate to you more. For instance, you can talk about your community or situation, its struggles, and how you helped alleviate those problems through teamwork.

You can also write from the viewpoint of someone who was given aid. Your essay can help those in the same circumstances know that asking for help and services from different organizations is not something they should be ashamed of.

Are you unsure of how to deliver your personal experiences? See What Is A Personal Essay to know more about it.

You can see service in your daily life. Talk about services in the small things your readers might not realize are happening around them. Namely, the utilities you’re enjoying daily, such as water, transport, electricity, and communication – are public needs made available through public service.

You can also take the subject from a different angle, such as doing someone else a favor, helping an old individual cross the street, or generally being kind to others.

Providing services, be it for business or the community, will affect not only the person who received it but also the person who provided it. For example, suppose you are a business owner or customer service representative, and you had a bad experience in the past when providing services. In that case, you can write about it and include the lessons you learned. This also goes if providing social or community services positively impacted your life as an individual.

Writing about the effect of social services on an individual or community can inspire others to volunteer or help others in their ways.

If you are interested in learning more, check out our essay writing tips !

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An in-depth essay exploring the importance, benefits, and impact of engaging in community service activities.

Engaging in community service can be a transformative experience that goes beyond simple acts of kindness. It acts as a catalyst in not only empowering individuals but also in fostering a sense of belonging and empathy within a community. Community service offers a unique platform where one can contribute their skills and energy to create positive change.

One of the remarkable things about community service is how it instills a sense of purpose and personal fulfillment. It allows individuals to connect deeply with others and make a real difference in the lives of those in need. The act of volunteering challenges one’s perspectives and expands their horizons, enabling them to see the world from a different lens.

Moreover, community service provides an opportunity to develop essential life skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving. As individuals engage in various projects and initiatives, they learn to work collaboratively, adapt to different situations, and think critically. These skills are not only valuable in personal growth but also in professional settings.

By actively participating in community service, individuals also become acutely aware of the social issues and challenges faced by their local communities. This increased awareness leads individuals to develop a greater understanding of societal problems and motivates them to take action, ultimately creating a ripple effect that brings about positive change. Community service is not just about giving, but also about creating a sense of responsibility and driving collective impact.

Personal growth and development through community service

Engaging in community service can have a profound impact on personal growth and development. By actively participating in volunteer activities, individuals have the opportunity to expand their horizons, gain new perspectives, and develop valuable skills.

Participating in community service exposes individuals to diverse communities, cultures, and experiences. Whether it’s working with children in an underprivileged school, volunteering at a local shelter, or assisting with environmental conservation efforts, individuals are able to step outside of their comfort zones and interact with people from different walks of life. This exposure fosters empathy and understanding, broadening their worldview and helping them develop a greater appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of others.

Furthermore, community service allows individuals to acquire and develop crucial skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Whether it’s organizing an event, leading a team of volunteers, or finding creative solutions to challenges, individuals are able to refine their abilities in a real-world setting. These skills not only benefit individuals in their volunteer work, but also in their personal and professional lives.

In addition to gaining new perspectives and developing skills, community service also provides individuals with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Contributing to the well-being of others and making a positive difference in the community can be incredibly rewarding. Engaging in acts of service allows individuals to tap into a deeper sense of meaning and connect with something greater than themselves.

Overall, participating in community service is not just about fulfilling a specific need or providing assistance to others. It offers individuals the opportunity for personal growth and development, allowing them to broaden their perspectives, develop valuable skills, and find fulfillment in making a positive impact on their communities.

Building strong relationships and fostering a sense of community

One of the remarkable advantages of engaging in community service is the opportunity to build strong relationships and create a sense of connection among individuals. By working together towards a common goal, people can form bonds and develop meaningful friendships that go beyond superficial interactions. Participating in community service activities allows individuals to meet and interact with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives, thereby fostering a sense of unity and understanding.

Engaging in community service provides a platform for individuals to collaborate and cooperate with others, leading to the formation of strong bonds and friendships. Through shared experiences and the mutual desire to make a positive impact, individuals can develop a sense of trust and reliance on one another. These relationships can provide not only emotional support but also serve as a valuable network for future opportunities and resources.

Additionally, community service activities often involve working closely with other volunteers, organizers, and community leaders. This collaboration cultivates a sense of teamwork and encourages individuals to communicate effectively, solve problems together, and contribute towards a common cause. Building such collaborative relationships is essential for creating a strong and resilient community that can address social issues and bring about positive change.

Furthermore, community service provides individuals with the opportunity to learn from those they serve, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding. By engaging with individuals who may have different life experiences or face various challenges, individuals can develop a broader perspective and a deeper appreciation for the diversity within their community. This understanding can lead to a more inclusive and compassionate society, where everyone feels valued and supported.

• Community service activities encourage individuals to connect and form relationships with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.
• Participating in community service helps build strong bonds and friendships based on shared experiences and a common goal.
• Collaborating with others during community service activities fosters teamwork and effective communication skills.
• Engaging in community service promotes empathy and understanding by exposing individuals to different life experiences and challenges.
• The relationships formed through community service can provide emotional support and serve as a valuable network for future opportunities.

Gaining new skills and experiences

Engaging in community service provides individuals with the opportunity to acquire new skills and gain valuable experiences that can greatly benefit them in various aspects of their lives. Participating in community service not only allows individuals to contribute to their community, but also offers them the chance to develop personal and professional skills, broaden their perspectives, and cultivate meaningful connections.

Overall, participating in community service allows individuals to gain new skills and experiences that can enrich their personal and professional lives. Whether it’s developing empathy and compassion, acquiring leadership and teamwork skills, broadening perspectives, or building meaningful connections, community service provides a platform for personal growth and development.

Making a positive impact on the community

Contributing to the betterment of society is a rewarding experience that allows individuals to create positive change within their communities. By actively engaging in various community service initiatives, individuals can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and foster a sense of unity and belonging. Whether through volunteering at local organizations, participating in charitable events, or advocating for important causes, each person has the power to have a lasting impact and create a ripple effect of positive change.

Engaging in community service not only benefits others, but also brings personal fulfillment and growth. It allows individuals to develop important skills such as empathy, leadership, and problem-solving. By actively participating in community service projects, individuals can broaden their perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by different members of society. This exposure to diverse experiences helps build a more compassionate and inclusive community.

Furthermore, community service provides an opportunity for individuals to give back and express their gratitude for the support they have received. It allows them to use their skills, passions, and resources to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Whether it is spending time with the elderly, tutoring underprivileged children, or organizing clean-up campaigns, each act of service contributes to the overall well-being and growth of the community. By actively participating in community service, individuals become agents of positive change and role models for others.

Moreover, community service creates a sense of collective responsibility and unity within a community. When individuals come together for a common cause, they create powerful networks and connections that transcend barriers and divisions. Working alongside others who share a similar passion for making the world a better place fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. It empowers individuals to realize that their actions, no matter how small, can collectively make a significant impact on society.

In conclusion, making a positive impact on the community is an essential aspect of community service. By actively engaging in various initiatives, individuals can create a ripple effect of positive change and foster a sense of unity within their communities. Through their acts of service, individuals not only benefit others but also experience personal growth and fulfillment. By working together, individuals can create a more compassionate, inclusive, and supportive community for all.

Developing empathy and understanding for others

Enhancing our ability to relate to and understand the experiences of others is a fundamental aspect of engaging in community service. When we step outside of our own lives and devote our time and energy to assisting those in need, we inevitably gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and struggles that people face. Through this process, we develop empathy, which is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others.

By volunteering and engaging in community service projects, we expose ourselves to a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. This exposure enables us to break down stereotypes and preconceived notions about certain groups of people. It allows us to see beyond the surface-level differences and recognize the shared humanity that connects us all. When we interact with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic statuses, we gain a greater appreciation for the richness and complexity of the human experience.

In addition to gaining empathy, community service also helps us develop a deeper understanding of the structural issues that contribute to inequality and social injustices. Through our hands-on involvement in addressing these issues, we become more aware of the systemic factors that perpetuate inequality and the importance of working towards long-term solutions. This knowledge equips us with the tools to become active agents of change, advocating for policies and practices that promote social justice and equal opportunities for all.

Furthermore, engaging in community service fosters a sense of connection and solidarity with others. When we work alongside individuals who share a common goal of improving the community, we develop bonds and connections that transcend superficial differences. These experiences remind us of the interconnectedness of human beings and the power of collective action. They inspire us to continue working towards a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Enhancing college and job applications through community service

Volunteering and giving back to your community can have a significant impact not only on personal growth and development, but also on your college and job applications. By engaging in community service activities, you not only demonstrate your commitment to making a difference in the world, but also showcase valuable skills and qualities that are highly sought after by colleges and employers alike.

When universities and colleges review applications, they look for more than just good grades and test scores. They seek well-rounded individuals who possess qualities such as leadership, empathy, and a strong sense of social responsibility. By dedicating your time and energy to community service, you can demonstrate these traits and stand out among other applicants. Furthermore, community service can provide you with unique experiences and insights that can be woven into your college essays and interviews, making your application more memorable and impactful.

Additionally, many scholarship programs and grants prioritize applicants with a robust community service background. By actively engaging in volunteer work, you not only increase your chances of receiving financial aid, but also strengthen your application for other forms of merit-based scholarships. Demonstrating your commitment to community service shows that you are willing to go above and beyond and truly make a difference in the lives of others.

Furthermore, community service can also enhance your job applications. Employers value individuals who possess a strong work ethic, the ability to work well with others, and a willingness to give back to the community. By showcasing your community service experiences on your resume and during interviews, you demonstrate these desirable qualities and set yourself apart from other job applicants.

Community service can also provide valuable networking opportunities that can potentially lead to job offers. Through volunteering, you can connect with professionals in your field of interest and gain insight into different career paths. These connections can open doors to internships, mentorship opportunities, and job recommendations, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

In conclusion, community service is not only personally rewarding, but it can also greatly enhance your college and job applications. By showcasing your commitment to making a difference, you demonstrate valuable qualities and skills that colleges and employers are seeking. Engaging in community service can provide you with unique experiences, networking opportunities, and set you apart from other applicants, ultimately helping you achieve your academic and career goals.

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Attacks on Walz’s Military Record

By Robert Farley , D'Angelo Gore and Eugene Kiely

Posted on August 8, 2024 | Corrected on August 9, 2024

Este artículo estará disponible en español en El Tiempo Latino .

In introducing her pick for vice presidential running mate, Kamala Harris has prominently touted Tim Walz’s 24 years of service in the Army National Guard. Now, however, GOP vice presidential nominee JD Vance and the Trump campaign are attacking Walz on his military record, accusing the Minnesota governor of “stolen valor.”

We’ll sort through the facts surrounding the three main attacks on Walz’s military record and let readers decide their merit. The claims include:

• Vance claimed that Walz “dropped out” of the National Guard when he learned his battalion was slated to be deployed to Iraq. Walz retired to focus on a run for Congress two months before his unit got official word of impending deployment, though the possibility had been rumored for months.
• Vance also accused Walz of having once claimed to have served in combat, when he did not. While advocating a ban on assault-style weapons, Walz said, “We can make sure that those weapons of war that I carried in war, is the only place where those weapons are at.”
• The Republican National Committee has criticized Walz for misrepresenting his military rank in campaign materials. The Harris campaign website salutes Walz for “rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major.” Walz did rise to that rank, but he retired as a master sergeant because he had not completed the requirements of a command sergeant major.

A native of West Point, Nebraska, Walz joined the Nebraska Army National Guard in April 1981, two days after his 17th birthday. When Walz and his wife moved to Minnesota in 1996, he transferred to the Minnesota National Guard, where he served in 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery.

“While serving in Minnesota, his military occupational specialties were 13B – a cannon crewmember who operates and maintains cannons and 13Z -field artillery senior sergeant,” according to a statement released by Army Lt. Col. Kristen Augé, the Minnesota National Guard’s state public affairs officer.

According to MPR News , Walz suffered some hearing impairment related to exposure to cannon booms during training over the years, and he underwent some corrective surgery to address it.

On Aug. 3, 2003, “Walz mobilized with the Minnesota National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 125th Field Artillery … to support Operation Enduring Freedom. The battalion supported security missions at various locations in Europe and Turkey. Governor Walz was stationed at Vicenza, Italy, during his deployment.” Augé stated. The deployment lasted about eight months.

“For 24 years I proudly wore the uniform of this nation,” Walz said at a rally in Philadelphia where he was announced as Harris’ running mate on Aug. 6. “The National Guard gave me purpose. It gave me the strength of a shared commitment to something greater than ourselves.”

Walz’s Retirement from the National Guard

In recent years, however, several of his fellow guard members have taken issue with the timing of Walz’s retirement from the National Guard in May 2005, claiming he left to avoid a deployment to Iraq.

Vance, who served a four-year active duty enlistment in the Marine Corps as a combat correspondent, serving in Iraq for six months in 2005, advanced that argument at a campaign event on Aug. 7.

“When the United States of America asked me to go to Iraq to serve my country, I did it,” Vance said. “When Tim Walz was asked by his country to go to Iraq, you know what he did? He dropped out of the Army and allowed his unit to go without him, a fact that he’s been criticized for aggressively by a lot of the people that he served with. I think it’s shameful to prepare your unit to go to Iraq, to make a promise that you’re going to follow through and then to drop out right before you actually have to go.”

In early 2005, Walz, then a high school geography teacher and football coach at Mankato West High School, decided to run for public office. In a 2009 interview Walz provided as part of the Library of Congress’ veterans oral history project, Waltz said he made the decision to retire from the National Guard to “focus full time” on a run for the U.S. House of Representatives for Minnesota’s 1st Congressional District (which he ultimately won in 2006). Walz said he was “really concerned” about trying to seek public office and serve in the National Guard at the same time without running afoul of the Hatch Act , which limits political speech by federal employees, including members of the National Guard.

Federal Election Commission records show that Walz filed to run for Congress on Feb. 10, 2005.

On March 20, 2005, Walz’s campaign put out a press release titled “Walz Still Planning to Run for Congress Despite Possible Call to Duty in Iraq.”

Three days prior, the release said, “the National Guard Public Affairs Office announced a possible partial mobilization of roughly 2,000 troops from the Minnesota National Guard. … The announcement from the National Guard PAO specified that all or a portion of Walz’s battalion could be mobilized to serve in Iraq within the next two years.”

According to the release, “When asked about his possible deployment to Iraq Walz said, ‘I do not yet know if my artillery unit will be part of this mobilization and I am unable to comment further on specifics of the deployment.’ Although his tour of duty in Iraq might coincide with his campaign for Minnesota’s 1st Congressional seat, Walz is determined to stay in the race. ‘As Command Sergeant Major I have a responsibility not only to ready my battalion for Iraq, but also to serve if called on. I am dedicated to serving my country to the best of my ability, whether that is in Washington DC or in Iraq.'”

On March 23, 2005, the Pipestone County Star reported, “Detachments of the Minnesota National Guard have been ‘alerted’ of possible deployment to Iraq in mid-to-late 2006.”

“Major Kevin Olson of the Minnesota National Guard said a brigade-sized contingent of soldiers could be expected to be called to Iraq, but he was not, at this time, aware of which batteries would be called,” the story said. “All soldiers in the First Brigade combat team of the 34th Division, Minnesota National Guard, could be eligible for call-up. ‘We don’t know yet what the force is like’ he said. ‘It’s too early to speculate, if the (soldiers) do go.’

“He added: ‘We will have a major announcement if and when the alert order moves ahead.’”

ABC News spoke to Joseph Eustice, a retired command sergeant major who served with Walz, and he told the news organization this week that “he remembers Walz struggling with the timing of wanting to serve as a lawmaker but also avoiding asking for a deferment so he could do so.”

“He had a window of time,” Eustice told ABC News. “He had to decide. And in his deciding, we were not on notice to be deployed. There were rumors. There were lots of rumors, and we didn’t know where we were going until it was later that, early summer, I believe.”

Al Bonnifield, who served under Walz, also recalled Walz agonizing over the decision.

“It was a very long conversation behind closed doors,” Bonnifield told the Washington Post this week. “He was trying to decide where he could do better for soldiers, for veterans, for the country. He weighed that for a long time.”

In 2018, Bonnifield told MPR News that Walz worried in early 2005, “Would the soldier look down on him because he didn’t go with us? Would the common soldier say, ‘Hey, he didn’t go with us, he’s trying to skip out on a deployment?’ And he wasn’t. He talked with us for quite a while on that subject. He weighed that decision to run for Congress very heavy. He loved the military, he loved the guard, he loved the soldiers he worked with.”

But not all of Walz’s fellow Guard members felt that way.

In a paid letter to the West Central Tribune in Minnesota in November 2018, Thomas Behrends and Paul Herr — both retired command sergeants major in the Minnesota National Guard — wrote, “On May 16th, 2005 he [Walz] quit, leaving the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion and its Soldiers hanging; without its senior Non-Commissioned Officer, as the battalion prepared for war. His excuse to other leaders was that he needed to retire in order to run for congress. Which is false, according to a Department of Defense Directive, he could have run and requested permission from the Secretary of Defense before entering active duty; as many reservists have.”

“For Tim Walz to abandon his fellow soldiers and quit when they needed experienced leadership most is disheartening,” they wrote. “When the nation called, he quit.”

Walz retired on May 16, 2005. Walz’s brigade received alert orders for mobilization on July 14, 2005, according to the National Guard and MPR News . The official mobilization report came the following month, and the unit mobilized and trained through the fall. It was finally deployed to Iraq in the spring of 2006.

The unit was originally scheduled to return in February 2007, but its tour was extended four months as part of President George W. Bush’s “surge” strategy , the National Guard reported. In all, the soldiers were mobilized for 22 months.

Responding to Vance’s claim that Walz retired to avoid deploying to Iraq, the Harris-Walz campaign released a statement saying, “After 24 years of military service, Governor Walz retired in 2005 and ran for Congress, where he was a tireless advocate for our men and women in uniform – and as Vice President of the United States he will continue to be a relentless champion for our veterans and military families.”

Walz on Carrying a Weapon ‘in War’

Vance also called Walz “dishonest” for a claim that Walz made in 2018 while speaking to a group about gun control.

“He made this interesting comment that the Kamala Harris campaign put out there,” Vance said, referring to a video of Walz that the Harris campaign posted to X on Aug. 6. “He said, ‘We shouldn’t allow weapons that I used in war to be on America’s streets.’ Well, I wonder, Tim Walz, when were you ever in war? What was this weapon that you carried into war given that you abandoned your unit right before they went to Iraq and he has not spent a day in a combat zone.”

In the video , Walz, who was campaigning for governor at the time, talked about pushing back on the National Rifle Association and said: “I spent 25 years in the Army and I hunt. … I’ve been voting for common sense legislation that protects the Second Amendment, but we can do background checks. We can do [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] research. We can make sure we don’t have reciprocal carry among states. And we can make sure that those weapons of war that I carried in war, is the only place where those weapons are at.”

But, as Vance indicated, there is no evidence that Walz carried a weapon “in war.”

As we said, Augé, in her statement, said Walz’s battalion deployed “to support Operation Enduring Freedom” on Aug. 3, 2003, and “supported security missions at various locations in Europe and Turkey.” During his deployment, Walz was stationed in Vicenza, Italy, and he returned to Minnesota in April 2004, Augé said. There was no mention of Walz serving in Afghanistan, Iraq or another combat zone.

In the 2009 interview for the veterans history project, Walz said he and members of his battalion initially thought they would “shoot artillery in Afghanistan,” as they had trained to do. That didn’t happen, he said, explaining that his group ended up helping with security and training while stationed at an Army base in Vicenza.

“I think in the beginning, many of my troops were disappointed,” Walz said in the interview. “I think they felt a little guilty, many of them, that they weren’t in the fight up front as this was happening.”

In a statement addressing his claim about carrying weapons “in war,” the Harris campaign noted that Walz, whose military occupational specialties included field artillery senior sergeant, “fired and trained others to use weapons of war innumerable times” in his 24 years of service.

Walz’s National Guard Rank

The Republican National Committee has criticized Walz for saying “in campaign materials that he is a former ‘Command Sergeant Major’ in the Army National Guard despite not completing the requirements to hold the rank into retirement.”

Walz’s biography on the Harris campaign website correctly says that the governor “served for 24 years” in the National Guard, “rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major.” 

Walz’s official biography on the Minnesota state website goes further, referring to the governor as “Command Sergeant Major Walz.”

“After 24 years in the Army National Guard, Command Sergeant Major Walz retired from the 1-125th Field Artillery Battalion in 2005,” the state website says. 

Walz did serve as command sergeant major , but Walz did not complete the requirements to retire with the rank of command sergeant, Augé told us in an email. 

“He held multiple positions within field artillery such as firing battery chief, operations sergeant, first sergeant, and culminated his career serving as the command sergeant major for the battalion,” Augé said. “He retired as a master sergeant in 2005 for benefit purposes because he did not complete additional coursework at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy.”

This isn’t the first time that Walz’s National Guard rank has come up in a campaign. 

In their 2018 paid letter to the West Central Tribune, when Walz was running for governor, the two Minnesota National Guard retired command sergeants major who criticized Walz for retiring before the Iraq deployment also wrote: “Yes, he served at that rank, but was never qualified at that rank, and will receive retirement benefits at one rank below. You be the judge.”

Correction, Aug. 9: We mistakenly said a 2007 “surge” strategy in Iraq occurred under President Barack Obama. It was President George W. Bush.

Editor’s note: FactCheck.org does not accept advertising. We rely on grants and individual donations from people like you. Please consider a donation. Credit card donations may be made through  our “Donate” page . If you prefer to give by check, send to: FactCheck.org, Annenberg Public Policy Center, 202 S. 36th St., Philadelphia, PA 19104. 

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Army breaks ground on $100 million modernized barracks at JBLM

Assistant Army Secretary Paul Farnan, Rep. Marilyn Strickland, D-Wash., and Army Col. Kent Park, Joint Base Lewis-McChord garrison commander, pick out hard hats and shovels for groundbreaking ceremony of a new barracks using sustainable building materials and environmentally friendly construction techniques. The pilot program could be replicated at Army bases around the world. (Derick Fennell/U.S. Army)

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. — The Army on Wednesday broke ground on a one-of-a-kind barracks at the base that service officials said will be the future home of a relatively new combat unit.

The $100 million barracks will open in 2027 to house 168 soldiers of the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, the Army said in a statement about its plan.

Lewis-McChord was chosen out of 130 Army installations around the world for the Sustainable Building Material Pilot Program, according to Paul Farnan, principal deputy assistant secretary of the Army for installations, energy and environment.

“We are proving that we can build better, we can save money and increase our resilience and lower our emissions and still deliver the very highest levels of quality for our soldiers,” he said.

Representatives from the Pentagon, White House, Congress and regional Army leaders took part in the ceremonial shovel turning that officially began work on the barracks.

While 21 of the 88 barracks at Washington’s Joint Base Lewis-McChord date from before the 1970s, some of the most modern additions have incorporated college and residential architectural design, such as the Jackson Avenue Barracks designed in 2008. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers)

It’s designed to use new sustainable building techniques and materials to reduce its carbon impact by 30%.

The 89,000-square-foot, three-story facility features a “twin-barracks” style for unaccompanied soldiers, with two 44,500-square-foot structures. It will have a mix of four-bed, two-bath apartments, and two-bed, one-bath apartments.

The new barracks are also being built to enhance soldier privacy with some single-occupancy rooms, while having communal kitchens and living spaces where soldiers can gather.

“We are certainly building a better future for our soldiers,” said Maj. Gen. Matthew McFarlane, I Corps deputy commander.

Rep. Marilyn Strickland, D-Wash., whose district includes Lewis-McChord, has advocated for more on-base housing and higher housing allowances to offset a shortage of residences for the 45,000 service members at the base.

Stickland said a state statistic showing 7% of residents in the southern Puget Sound area of Seattle-Tacoma are affiliated by job, family or residence with Lewis-McChord.

Strickland said she and Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., who represents areas with large military populations on the Kitsap Peninsula, have done a “deep dive” into what soldiers desire in housing accommodations.

“To no surprise of anyone — housing affordability, housing access, spousal employment and child care rose to the top,” she said.

Improvements in living conditions at Lewis-McChord are part of that mix, Strickland said. According to the Army, 21 of the 88 barracks on the base were built prior to 1970.

“Investing in service members is one of the ways we can invest in the challenges we are having with recruitment and retention of those who join the military,” she said. “To take care of those who are serving is showing our patriotism in the best possible way.”

Col. Kathryn Sanborn, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the Seattle district, said part of the work for the pilot project will be measuring the amount of energy saved, alternative materials used and transportation distances covered to see whether the 30% carbon reduction is met.

Success would likely mean the design template could be used for the construction of other future Army barracks. The Army uses a standardized design, then makes alterations based on location.

“You’re not going to have the same building at Fort Moore, Ga., as you are in Fairbanks, Alaska,” Sanborn said.

She said Lewis-McChord is the site for a second pilot project that will use mass timber — super-compressed wood that advocates say has the load-bearing strength of steel — as a main construction element in a new barracks.

With suppliers in Oregon and Montana, the project can take advantage of regional — and likely lower — materials costs that will improve the efficiency of the new building.

Farnan said bids on the initial work have come in under cost projections.

“We can save taxpayer’s money, too,” he said.

related stories

• ‘A game-changer’: House panel outlines quality-of-life improvements for troops for 2025 defense bill

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Gaining ground in a competitive market

The eagle reports on usps ground advantage at the 1-year mark.

Since the introduction of USPS Ground Advantage last year, the Postal Service has experienced a 375 percent increase in volume for packages over 1 pound, The Eagle magazine reports in its summer issue.

Package volume has grown every fiscal quarter since Ground Advantage was launched in July 2023. The product’s simplicity, dependability and affordability have proven attractive to businesses.

Another article explains how the organization’s Customer Experience Vision Activation pilot, which will be rolled out at sorting and delivery centers and will empower employees to better meet customer needs.

The magazine’s latest edition also explores how inflation affects not only consumers, but USPS, too.

The effectiveness of Political Mail and the safeguards around Election Mail are also covered in this issue.

The Postal Service mailed The Eagle to employees’ homes this month. It is also available on Newsroom , a USPS online news hub.

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Weather service now confirms 4 Cleveland-area tornadoes; here’s what we know

• Updated: Aug. 09, 2024, 1:06 a.m.
• | Published: Aug. 08, 2024, 3:10 p.m.

Residents and work crews have spent days cleaning debris from a storm that rolled through Northeast Ohio on Tuesday afternoon. This scene is from near West 153rd Street and Edgecliff Avenue in Cleveland. David Petkiewicz, cleveland.com

• Zachary Smith, cleveland.com

CLEVELAND, Ohio - The National Weather Service has confirmed that at least four tornadoes occurred in the Cleveland area Tuesday, traveling across parts of Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Summit counties, hitting multiple cities, leaving property damage, uprooting trees and knocking out power for days .

Late Thursday afternoon, the weather service confirmed two more tornadoes, one in Summit County and crossing into Cuyahoga County, and the other traveling from Lake County to Geauga County. This was in addition to tornadoes confirmed Wednesday for Avon Lake to Rocky River, and Brook Park to Bedford.

The path of each tornado can be found at this link .

But what else do we know about these tornadoes and is the weather phenomenon occurring more frequently in Northeast Ohio?

Tornado 1 - Avon Lake to Rocky River

The first tornado formed on the eastern part of Avon Lake in Lorain County at 3:45 p.m. on Tuesday before swiftly traveling through Bay Village and dissipating in Rocky River at 3:56 p.m., covering a distance of 8.42 miles.

This tornado was 200 yards wide and had estimated peak winds of 110 mph, classifying it as an EF-1 tornado on the Enhanced Fujita Scale which ranges from zero to five , with five being the most severe.

Tornado 2 - Brook Park to Bedford

The second tornado occurred moments later, at 3:59 p.m., in Brook Park, from where it traveled 17 miles to Bedford, passing through Parma, Parma Heights, Seven Hills, Independence and Valley View. It disappeared 25 minutes later at 4:24 p.m.

This tornado was 350 yards wide and had estimated peak winds of 104 mph, also classifying it as an EF-1 tornado.

Tornado 3 - Brecksville to Peninsula

The third tornado started at 4:20 p.m. in Brecksville, where it traveled 3.32 miles to Peninsula, passing through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It disappeared five minutes later at 4:25 p.m.

This tornado was 150 yards wide and had estimated peak winds of 104 mph, also classifying it as an EF-1 tornado.

Tornado 4 - Waite Hill to Chester Township

The fourth tornado started at 4:31 p.m. in Waite Hill. It then traveled southeast 4.79 miles to Chester Township, crossing from Lake County and into Geauga County. It ended seven minutes later at 4:38 p.m.

This tornado was 200 yards wide and had estimated peak winds of 110 mph, also classifying it as an EF-1 tornado.

The National Weather Service said late Thursday afternoon that it no longer had tornado survey teams in the field, but said it is still possible more tornadoes will later be added to Tuesday’s total.

Previous tornadoes

The last time a tornado hit Northeast Ohio was earlier this year, when a tornado occurred in Windham in Portage County near the intersection of Ohio Route 303 and Stanley Road, traveling through a number of roads and crossing the Ohio Turnpike before dissipating near Silica Sand Road.

Then, nearly a year ago on Aug. 24, 2023 , there were nine tornadoes between Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina counties, including one in Cleveland and another in Warrensville Heights and Bedford Heights.

Tornadoes aren’t influenced much by rural or urban landscapes, but the reason more rural areas seem to get the weather phenomena is because they occupy more space than a more condensed area like a city.

“It’s just a numbers game,” said Jim Sullivan, a meteorologist with Cleveland’s National Weather Service.

More tornadoes

But if you think tornadoes are occurring more often in Ohio, Sullivan says you would be correct.

This year, Ohio has seen the most tornadoes on record in the state, with the 63rd tornado of the year confirmed on June 29. The previous record of 62 tornados was set in 1992. The most recent tornadoes will not be part of the official total until later in the year.

In Northeast Ohio, 19 tornadoes occurred from 2020 to 2024 before the ones from this week, less than halfway through the decade. In comparison, there were just 24 tornadoes from 2010 to 2019, and 13 from 2000 to 2009.

A few of these have been in Cuyahoga County.

Before last year the most recent tornado in Cuyahoga County was on June 16, 2019, when an EF-1 tornado occurred east of the Interstate 270 and I-480 intersection and traveled two miles to Glenwillow.

The only other tornado that occurred in Cuyahoga County since 2000 was on July 20, 2013, when a tornado was confirmed near the Ursuline College campus in Pepper Pike and crossed Fairmount Boulevard.

Zachary Smith is the data reporter for cleveland.com . You can reach him at [email protected] .

Stories by Zachary Smith

• One-quarter of Cuyahoga County still without power, with full recovery not expected until next week, FirstEnergy reports
• Northeast Ohio drought conditions slightly improve but severe drought persists in southern counties
• FirstEnergy says it may take until Wednesday night to restore power in many Greater Cleveland cities
• SNAP benefits used on spoiled food due to storm can be replenished
• Weather service confirms tornado in southeast Cleveland suburbs; more than 300,000 still without power

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Tim Walz's military record: What to know about potential VP's National Guard service

Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate on Tuesday, choosing a progressive yet plain-spoken VP candidate from America’s heartland to help her win over rural, white voters.

“I’m pleased to share that I’ve made my decision: Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will join our campaign as my running mate,” Harris said via text to supporters. “Tim is a battle-tested leader who has an incredible track record of getting things done for Minnesota families. I know that he will bring that same principled leadership to our campaign, and to the office of the vice president.”

We look at Walz, a 60-year-old U.S. Army National Guard veteran, and his military career over the years.

More: Tim Walz is Kamala Harris' VP pick: Minnesota governor named running mate: Live updates

How long was Walz in the military?

Walz served in the military for 24 years, enlisting in the Nebraska National Guard at 17 in 1981 and then transferring to the Minnesota National Guard in 1996. He retired in 2005 to begin his successful run for the U.S. House, representing Minnesota as command sergeant major, among the highest ranks for enlisted soldiers. His battalion went on to deploy to Iraq shortly after Walz's retirement.

Walz specialized in heavy artillery and had proficiency ribbons in sharpshooting and hand grenades.

But during the 21 years that Walz spent working with large artillery pieces, he suffered hearing loss and tinnitus in both ears, Minnesota Public Radio reported. He was allowed to continue his service after undergoing surgery, which partially resolved his hearing loss.

Where did Walz serve, and what did he do in the National Guard?

During his service, Walz responded to natural disasters, including floods and tornadoes in Minnesota and Nebraska, and was deployed overseas for months at a time, according to MPR.

In 2003, he was sent to Italy, where he served with the European Security Force to support the war in Afghanistan. He was also stationed in Norway for joint training with other NATO militaries.

Walz told MPR that he reenlisted in the National Guard after the September 11 attacks but never saw active combat in his years in the military.

Stars and Stripes reported in 2020 that Walz credited his Army experience with helping him steer Minnesota through the COVID-19 pandemic as governor.

As governor of Minnesota, Walz is commander in chief of the 13,000-soldier Minnesota National Guard. “I’m certainly proud of my military service, but it’s one piece of me,” he told Minnesota Public Radio in 2018. “It doesn’t define me.”

Reuters and USA TODAY reporter Tom Vanden Brook contributed to this story.