About Service Learning Background Image

About Service Learning

CONTACT, HOURS & APPOINTMENTS

 

Hello MiraCostans:

Due to the CDC guidance regarding COVID-19, our Service Learning & Volunteer Center staff is continuing to work remotely for the fall 2021 semester; we are ready to assist you! Please contact us at 760.795.6616 or servicelearning@miracosta.edu. All calls and emails will be returned within 24 hours. If you would like to set-up a Zoom virtual meeting please email us so that we can get that set up for you. We hope you are being safe and taking good care of yourself.

In Unity,
Service Learning & Volunteer Center Team
Get up-to-date information on MiraCosta College COVID-19 Updates

Remote Office Hours

Monday-Thursday 8:00-4:30 p.m. & Friday 8:00-3:00 p.m.

Staff

Common Questions Related to Service Learning & Volunteer Program

The service learning placement (organization) has terminated all volunteers, how will this impact my grade?

Please connect with your faculty, they will adjust your assignment accordingly. Your instructor may offer you the alternative assignment. If your service learning was mandatory the instructor will offer you a new option that aligns with moving courses online.

I completed part or most of my hours, will I receive credit for these hours?
Make sure all of your completed hours are submitted to your instructor or emailed as pdf to the service learning & Volunteer Center via email to servicelearning@miracosta.edu. The center will update the reports that are sent to your instructor. If you have questions please email us or call 760-795-6616. All calls will be returned within a 24 hour period.
I completed part of my hours but I can’t get them verified by the organization?
Email your concern to servicelearning@miracosta.edu and copy your instructor. The program manager will reach out to the organization. All emails will be acknowledged within a 24 hour period, but the resolution might take longer due to some organizations being closed.
Will I still get my certificate of service learning if I submitted proof of hours?
Yes, all certificates will be processed as usual, unless the college is closed. Students who complete at least 15 hours for one organization, for one class, will receive a certificate of service learning participation. Make sure that your mailing address is up to date in your SURF account. All Agreement Forms and Time Sheets must be submitted. If you are having difficulties getting hours signed please call or email the service learning & volunteer center prior to the deadline set by your instructor.
How do I get a copy of all of my service hours to apply for a scholarship, transfer application, or employment.

Send an email request with your student ID, first and last name, and indicate if you want your service history emailed or mailed. Please allow 3-5 business days for all service histories.

I was planning to apply for the 50 and 100 volunteer certificate. Will this still be honored?
Yes, all hours that are submitted for the volunteer certificates will be honored, however we are not sure at this time if the celebration of service will still continue. In the event the celebration of service is cancelled all certificates will be mailed.
I had planned to apply for Student Advocate (peer worker in the service learning & Volunteer Center,) will the center still recruit?

Yes, we will update our Service Learning Page and the Career Center’s JAIN Account, please check both, or email us with inquiries regarding potential openings for the fall 2021. The college has compiled a FAQ Sheet which contains a list of some of the most common questions and answers across campus departments.

What is Service Learning?

Service learning is a form of experiential education that partners academic instruction with community service. Students learn through participation in thoughtfully organized service activities that are course relevant and meet actual community needs.  Each semester approximately 60 courses at MiraCosta College offer a service component either as an option or a requirement. Students are placed in non-profit organizations and public schools where they provide a variety of support services. These placements allow students to apply course theory in real world settings while making valuable community contributions. The Service Learning & Volunteer Center also houses an emergency food pantry, available to current MiraCosta students.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Service Learning and Volunteer Center is to support and promote student success and student engagement through curricular and co-curricular community service. The center facilitates applied learning opportunities that enhance student learning while increasing personal civic responsibility, community awareness, personal growth, and cultural competency.

Our foundation is CASE: Community, Advocacy, Service, and Education.

Student Advocates

The center hires a student leadership team of service oriented students who are passionate about education, community, advocacy, social justice, and equity. Student Advocates are assigned to a local Title I school or a local non-profit that supports a local Title I school. Their role is to assist the school with literacy and STEAM activities that promote higher learning. Advocates also work in the center and use their paid office hours as an opportunity to share service opportunities with other college students. Advocate tasks include: office hours, promoting program services, assisting students with food pantry services, and helping coordinate service projects that raise awareness on issues connected with education, community, social justice, and equity.