Volunteering & Service Learning
Washingtonians volunteer at higher rates than most Americans, and Whatcom County residents are especially generous with their time and talent. To find volunteer opportunities that are meaningful for you and for an issue you care about, explore the following resources.
- Contact an organization directly, and let them know your interests and skills.
- Check out the volunteer postings at the Whatcom Volunteer Center, or their searchable database at 1-800-Volunteer. The Whatcom Volunteer Center is the county's one-stop source for hundreds of volunteer opportunities, from one-time and group activities, to ongoing projects ranging from labor and clerical work, to direct service and professional-level experiences. They have special opportunities for Baby Boomers, youth, families and service groups.
- Are you a student or know one? A great way to integrate service and learning is...well...service learning. How is it different than volunteering or internships? Service learning accomplishes both academic goals for student learning, and provides a meaningful service to a community organization. Western Washington University's Center for Service Learning can direct students to all current classes at WWU that include a service element. For students at other colleges and high schools, ask about service learning in your admissions or academic counseling offices.