special events and learning relationships -- Providence Community Media Forum

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Subject: special events and learning relationships

Author:
Dmitri Seals

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Date Posted: 19:44:49 09/14/01 Fri
In reply to: Seth Pipkin 's message, "Media coalitions (and student roles)" on 16:35:19 09/14/01 Fri

>And secondly, given that local nonprofits are in such
>a struggle for resources, time, and man- (or woman-)
>power, how can they best integrate motivated college
>students who are on very limited schedules and
>transportation constraints?

Speaking as a college student, I've found that the greatest draws for students in the organizations I work with have been special events (e.g., a computer set-up day, or a community fair to staff) and mentoring relationships (both being mentored and mentoring others).

The first is a good draw for quick manpower, but the second can create the deep bonds between students and community that will make for devoted long-term volunteers. Like many folks, students like to build personal connections with people they respect, people who are leaders in their community -- and as they build these connections they learn the whys and hows of serious community involvement.

When the time comes to mentor or help others, students are primed to practice the model of community involvement they observed from their mentor(s). They can spread this to fellow volunteers, members of the community, anyone -- the cycle builds on itself.

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