Civic Engagement

What is Civic Engagement?


Civic engagement consists of students, faculty, and staff voluntarily engaging in opportunities to address a wide variety of social issues and support under-served groups and communities.

Excerpts from Civic Responsibility and Higher Education, edited by Thomas Ehrlich, published by Oryx Press, 2000.

Civic engagement means working to make a difference in the civic life of our communities and developing the combination of knowledge, skills, values and motivation to make that difference. It means promoting the quality of life in a community, through both political and non-political processes.
Preface, page vi

Volunteerism


Volunteerism is just one part of civic engagement, but it plays a significant role here at Sam Houston State University - where our motto is "The measure of a Life is its Service". Through on-campus organizations and offices, Bearkats are able to find numerous opportunities to work with various community partners.

JustServe’s database provides opportunities to get involved. Search for a specific location, organization, or project at JustServe.org.

If you are a student looking for other ways to volunteer, you can contact Leadership Initiatives. You can also check out these SHSU programs that are involved in the community.