Purpose of Service Programming for PLU Residential Life:
Service programming is an opportunity to engage and involve yourself and your residents in a dynamic community experience that provides insight and perspective into the life of another person, creating a deeper understanding of self, world, and community.
Service is easy when you have a GOAL:
The following model can be used as a planning tool for the RA service program component. It is by no means a required format to follow; it is, however, strongly encouraged to utilize throughout the year. The Office of Residential Life holds the expectation that each RA plans 1 service program during each semester. RA’s can partner with ONE additional RA in the planning of a service program, but both RA’s must conduct his/her own reflection process. Talk to your RD about specific requirements within your area.
Gather (Weeks 1-6 of semester)
In the gathering phase, the RA assesses what her/his residents would like to do for a community service project. Gathering can include developing questionnaires/surveys, bringing speakers in from local service organizations to talk about service at location, as well as having individual conversations with people about past service involvement. RA’s are also strongly encouraged to utilize the 1st year student survey as well.
Organize (Weeks 7-10 of semester)
The organizing phase involves detailed planning of the service event. The RA will use the information from the gathering phase to determine a project and location for service. It is important to check in with your RD, as they can be a good resource in helping you stay on track. Also, make sure that your project is feasible in the remaining time for the semester, and that it aligns with what your RD will accept for a service related project.
Act (Weeks 11-12 of semester)
This phase is when the community service project takes place.
Link (Remaining weeks of semester)
The final phase, link, involves some form of evaluation with your residents, combined with a personal reflection paper. The evaluation with your residents can include either a survey or extensive dialogue/reflection activity with the project participants (see ‘Socratic questions’ and ‘group reflection suggestions’ handout for reflection recommendations). The RA will use the information collected from the dialogue or surveys, as well as their own personal experience, to construct a reflection paper (see service reflection paper guidelines handout for specifics). The personal reflection paper is due 7 days after the project has been completed.