General Position Responsibilities

**Please note that these are generalities, not requirements

  • Plans and executes community service and philanthropy activities for the house (at least one per semester).
  • Develops a calendar of philanthropies and community service events each semester.
  • Informs house members of other philanthropy and community service activities on campus

Philanthropy/Community Service Chair FAQs

What is the difference between philanthropy and community service?

  • Philanthropy involves raising money through an activity or fundraising that supports a charitable cause.
  • Community service involves hands-on service to an organization, cause, or community.
  • Both are important and worthwhile!

How can I locate community service projects?

  • Visit the Volunteer Center in the East Student Office Space (Memorial Union)
  • Consult with service organizations
  • Talk with local churches and synagogues.
  • Talk to the Volunteer Center of Story County

What are some ideas for community service projects?

  • Volunteer to host a game night or dance for a local nursing home.
  • Volunteer at a soup kitchen or homeless shelter.
  • Adopt-A-Highway.
  • Do a “sweep” of a neighborhood and pick up all the litter and trash.
  • Plant a tree or perform landscaping work.
  • Volunteer at a daycare or a home for troubled youth.
  • Habitat for Humanity.
  • Perform “random acts of kindness.”
  • Make blankets for project linus
  • Serve coffee or hot chocolate on a cold day.
  • Volunteer to paint a building.

How do I set up a philanthropy project?

The following steps can help you set up a philanthropy project:

  1. Determine the cause for which the money will be raised. It’s best to do this at a house meeting, so everyone has input.
  2. Develop a philanthropy/community service committee.
  3. This committee should generate a list of possible activities and events that could be held to raise money.
  4. This list should be brought before the entire house for their input and a vote.
  5. Hold the event.
  6. Evaluate the event and reflect on what could be improved for the next time.

How do I set up a community service project?

The following steps can help you set up a philanthropy project:

  1. Develop a philanthropy/community service committee.
  2. This committee should generate a list of possible service activities.
  3. This list should be brought before the entire house for their input and a vote.
  4. Determine a date and time for the service project.
  5. Arrange transportation.
  6. Hold the event.
  7. Evaluate the event and reflect on what could be improved for the next time.

How can I increase involvement in community service?

  • Some residents may need an extra push, like a personal invitation to the service project.
  • Explain how the service project will benefit the resident.
  • Reward residents who get involved.
  • Try to get a newspaper article or some publicity for your activity. The residents may feel a desire to participate in projects that receive recognition and are noticed by others.

What are some good service links?