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Learn and Serve America: Higher Education
This grants program supports college students in service-learning
programs organized by institutions of higher education and nonprofit
organizations.
What are examples of Higher Education
Service-learning programs?
Service learning programs involve students in organized community
service that addresses local needs, while developing their academic
skills, their sense of civic responsibility, and their
commitment to the community.
For example, as part of a public policy course on school reform, college
students might work with teachers at a local school to develop
service-learning curricula appropriate for K-12 students. Or to meet a
clinical requirement, nursing students might help operate a community
health center serving low-income people. In connection with a weekly
seminar on environmental issues, students might help local residents
reduce toxins in their homes.
What kinds of organizations are eligible to apply
for Learn and Serve America funds?
Institutions of higher education, consortia of institutions of higher
education, nonprofit organizations, and public agencies working in
partnership with colleges and universities are eligible to apply for
Learn and Serve America: Higher Education funds.
How may funds be spent?
Grants may be used to cover the costs of program staff, participant
support, recruitment, placement, training, and limited amounts of
equipment and administrative costs. Institutions and organizations
that sponsor programs must match Corporation grants in cash or in kind,
dollar for dollar.
How are Learn and Serve America programs
selected and funded?
Programs are selected and funded directly by the Corporation through a
national competition. The Corporation awards one-year grants, with
renewal funding contingent upon program performance and
availability of appropriations.
What do successful proposals have in common?
Successful applicants demonstrate clear understanding of how a program
benefits communities while enhancing students' academic and civic
education. Ideal programs allow students and community
members to participate fully in their design and implementation. They
also focus on a specific area of community need and specify how results
will be demonstrated.
How do higher education institutions apply?
Applications are available from the Corporation. Call (202) 606-5000
ext. 117 for information on the application deadline.
![[Photo: Learn and Serve workers]](/WH/EOP/cns/images/ls7.gif)
This grants program supports college students in service-learning
programs organized by institutions of higher education and nonprofit
organizations.
![[Photo: Learn and Serve worker in clinic setting.]](/WH/EOP/cns/images/ls2.gif)
For example, as part of a public policy course on school reform, college
students might work with teachers at a local school to develop
service-learning curricula appropriate for K-12 students. Or to meet a
clinical requirement, nursing students might help operate a community
health center serving low-income people. In connection with a weekly
seminar on environmental issues, students might help local residents
reduce toxins in their homes.