Bodwell Center for Service and Volunteerism
The mission of the Bodwell Center for Service and Volunteerism is to create civic mindedness by building an engaged campus through the promotion of service learning and volunteerism to students, faculty, and staff in order to strengthen our local, national, and global communities. The Bodwell Center connects students and staff with various volunteer opportunities and charitable programs such as Red Cross blood drives, Black Bear Tutors, and the Black Bear Exchange. There are various opportunities for students to experience service learning or participate in Alternative Breaks. For more information about the Bodwell Center, please contact 207-581-3091, um.bodwellcenter@maine.edu, or Memorial Union, Room 120, Orono, ME, 04469. Feel free to reach out on Facebook (UMaine Bodwell Center).
Service Learning
Service-learning is a teaching method which combines community service with academic instruction as it focuses on critical, reflective thinking and civic responsibility. Service-learning programs involve students in organized community service that addresses local needs, while developing their academic and personal skills, sense of civic responsibility, and commitment to the community.
Alternative Breaks
Alternative Breaks (AB) is a non-profit, volunteer, student-led organization that promotes community involvement. The University of Maine’s Black Bear Chapter of AB focuses on volunteering throughout the United States, with occasional international trips. Small groups of students each focus on a different social issue and participate in a number of service learning, fundraising, and bonding activities throughout the year, culminating in a week-long service trip during spring break selected by the site leaders. AB is not just another student organization- it’s a real community. It’s a wonderful place to gain leadership skills and build lasting friendships.
