blog navigation

Honors College Announcements
Community Service

blog posts

  • Honors Service Activities for Spring 2014

    Interested in a Service Honors Activity for the Spring 2014 semester?  Applications are now available for the following options: 

     Questions?  Contact Sarah Gardiner at sarahg1@uic.edu

  • Honors Activity Option: Little Village READS Tutors

    Little Village READS is a new literacy initiative that pairs reading tutors with 1st through 3rd grade  students in the Little Village Community. All our students have been referred by their teachers for extra help outside the classroom, and they meet with tutors two days a week to work on building their reading skills. Tutors engage students in free reading, interactive games, and fun literacy activities.

    If you are interested in being a tutor we would love to hear from you! This is a great opportunity to gain some hands on experience working with an amazing group of kids. 

    During the School Year starting January 6th
    Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays 
    2:30-5:00pm

    contact: Rachel Serra, 773-542-7617, rserra@eriehouse.org
    address: 4225 W. 25th Street, Chicago, IL 60623

  • United States Hispanic Leadership Institute – Volunteers Needed 2/12 – 2/16

    USHLI is looking for Volunteers for their 32nd National Conference on February 12th- February 16th. This is a great opportunity to not only build your resume, but also to gain valuable skills that make you a better leader and a committed citizen. All applications will be considered. For more information about the conference, please visit http://ushli.org/events/index.php . Click on this post to learn more.

  • Teach for America Application Deadline Fri. 1/24

    How has your UIC experience transformed your life?  Join the movement that strives to give all students access to a transformational education. TEACH FOR AMERICA application deadline is January 24th.

    Join the 11,000 corps members teaching in 50 regions across the country, and the 32,000 alumni that are working from inside and outside the field of education to ensure that all children, regardless of zip code, receive an excellent education.  Click on the post to learn more.

  • Honors Activity Option: Aquinas Literacy Center Volunteers

    Become a volunteer English as a Second Language tutor at Aquinas Literacy Center! Since 1996, Aquinas Literacy Center, through English-language instruction, has enabled learners to transform their lives by acquiring skills to become successful parents, productive workers and responsible citizens.  Volunteer tutors are needed to instruct limited English proficient adult learners for 90 minutes per week at our Center, located at 3540 S Hermitage. 

    All instruction is one-on-one and training is provided.  Knowledge of a second language is not required; all instruction is in English. Join us for our two-part tutor training: Friday, January 24th (6pm - 9pm) and Saturday, January 25th (9am to 3pm). Tutors must attend both days for certification.

    For more information or to register for trianing, please contact Lori Rogers at 773.927.0512 or email aquinasliteracy@gmail.com.

  • Project Inspire – New Student Organization on Innovation and Change, Meeting Thurs. 1/30

    Would you like to develop an app to improve access to healthcare around the work? Or maybe use video technology to bring improvements to education in low-income areas? Or a whole lot more? Well join Project Inspire for the opportunity to join a global group of university students working to find INNOVATIVE solutions to social/ medical/ environmental issues around the world! You will have the chance to actually create a project! First meeting on Thurs. Jan 30 at 5:00 in Lecture Center A6 with food! Board positions also available. Anyone with an interest in Pre-Health, public policy, engineering, art, inventing, computer science, or volunteerism should come check us out. Contact projectinspire2013@gmail.com for questions.

  • Honors Activity Option: Project Esteem, Meeting Mon. 2/3

    Do you enjoy working with kids? Have a passion for science? Then Project ESTEEM is right for you!

    Project ESTEEM reaches out to children currently in the children's shelter, Lydia's Home (http://www.lydiahome.org) and The Rice Child and Family Center (http://www.childrenshomeandaid.org/page.aspx?pid=350), and teaches them science through exciting experiments and projects! Volunteers from all undergraduate colleges are welcome to join; you do not necessarily have to major in science and/or education in order to be a member of Project ESTEEM, nor do you have to be a member of the Honors College. However, Honors College students do have the ability to use Project ESTEEM as an Honors College Activity. 

    There will be an informational meeting on Monday, February 3 at 5:30 PM in the Honors College Quiet Study (BH121). If you are interested in working with Project ESTEEM or have any other questions, please e-mail Ashley Akkal: aakkal2@uic.edu or Haley Bohl: haleybohl@comcast.net.

  • Honors Activity Service Option: Alternative Spring Break

    Alternative Spring Break is a student run volunteer organization here at UIC. We provide volunteer opportunities throughout Chicago and during spring break we send groups of students all over the country for a week of volunteer work. Join our listserv by emailing asbuic@gmail.com to learn about our upcoming events and application deadlines!

  • Center for Literacy Tutors Needed

    The Center for Literacy is recruiting volunteer tutors to support the reading and math improvement of Head Start parents. 

    How can you help?
    • Tutor English or Spanish speaking GED Students
    • Participate in orientation, training's, and observations as offered.
    • Be willing to commit to 2 hours per week for a minimum of one quarter

    Where can you help?
    • 10 South Kedzie 
    • 4314 South Cottage Grove 
    • 4800 South Paulina (Spanish GED site ) 

    When?
    • Now through February 2014
    • 9:00 am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm -3:00pm

    Learn more at http://cfl.uic.edu/volunteer/ .  Contact Sharon Osinaike at osinake@uic.edu or  312-413-9869 with questions.  This project was made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a division of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds designated for literacy.

  • Chancellor’s Student Service and Leadership Awards (CSSLA), Nominations Due 3/10

    The CSSLA program has recognized outstanding student leaders and student volunteers who, while maintaining high academic achievement, demonstrate a commitment to the UIC community through participation in student organizations and campus activities and throughout the greater Chicagoland area through active service and community engagement.

    2014 Nominations are now open and will close on March 10, 2014.  Visit the website to learn more: http://www.uic.edu/depts/sldvs/recognition.shtml 

    Students may be nominated for the following awards, presented each year

    at the CSSLA program:

    • The Chancellor’s Student Service Award (CSSA)
    • The Eugertha Bates Memorial Award
    • The President’s Volunteer Service Award
    • Campus Programs Annual Awards
    • Annual Awards of the University of Illinois Alumni Association.
  • Urban Prep Academies Fellowship Opportunity

    In Chicago, just one in forty African-American boys in public schools earns a college degree by age 25. But for four years in a row at Urban Prep Academies, the nation’s first network of all-male charter public high schools, 100% of seniors have gained admission to attend four-year colleges and universities.  Do you have the skills, passion and energy to help us to continue to prepare urban boys to succeed in college? If so, consider applying to join the Urban Prep Fellows Program, a distinctive full-time, one-year service fellowship opportunity for recent college graduates.  Urban Prep Fellows augment and support regular classroom learning by building bonds with first year students through academic and personal advising, managing after-school activities, communicating with families and leading a small-group seminar course. During their service year, Fellows are provided with housing, transportation, health and dental insurance and a monthly living stipend.  Click on the post to view more.

     

     

  • Become a Food Corps Service Member, Due 3/30

    Are you a leader passionate about healthy food, farms and kids?  Then we want you to be a FoodCorps Service Member!  Application is open now through March 30th, 2014.

    FoodCorps recruits talented leaders for a year of paid public service building healthy school food environments in limited-resource communities.  FoodCorps service members implement a three-ingredient recipe for healthy kids:

    • TEACH children about what healthy food is and where it comes from

    • BUILD and tend school gardens 

    • BRING quality local food into public school cafeterias

    As a service member, you will be placed with one service site for your year-long term. Service sites are community organizations that operate in partnership with one of our fifteen host sites, statewide organizations that help run FoodCorps in each of the places FoodCorps serves: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Hawai'i, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina and Oregon.

    Click on the post to learn more.

  • Teach for America Final Application Deadline, Thurs. 2/20

    Final Application Deadline: Thursday, February 20th

    16.2 million students live in low-income communities in the United States.  Only 1 in 12 will graduate from college.  TEACH FOR ALL 12.

    Teach For America is the national corps of outstanding recent college graduates and professionals - of all majors, backgrounds, and career interests - who commit to teach for two years in urban and rural public schools and become lifelong leaders in expanding educational opportunity. This year, 11,000 corps members are teaching in 48 regions across the country while 32,000 Teach For America alumni continue working from inside and outside the field of education for the fundamental changes necessary to ensure educational excellence and equity.

    Learn how you can make an immediate difference in the lives of your students right out of college, and then go on to be key player in social change in law, policy, medicine, business, and every field you can imagine by checking out ourgraduate school and employer partnerships,package of financial incentives, and the 50 regions in which you could make and impact toward educational justice. 

    Apply now at www.teachforamerica.org 

    Email UIC Recruiter Michele Ybarra at michele.ybarra@teachforamerica.org for more information.  

  • Chicago Volunteer Expo, Sun. 2/16

    The Chicago Volunteer Expo is a one-stop shop for Chicagoans looking for meaningful volunteer opportunities. There are so many ways to give back to your community in 2014.  Find the one that's right for you at the Chicago Volunteer Expo!  Visit over 75 nonprofit organizations from all over the city to learn how you can lend a hand.  Whether your passion is the environment, the arts, or social justice, there's a volunteer opportunity waiting for you. All ages welcome! It's free!

    Sunday, February 16th10:00 am - 3:00 pm

    Location: The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum - 2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago IL 60614

    Cost: Absolutely free! Expo attendees will also receive free admission to explore the Nature Museum exhibits, including the Butterfly Haven!
     

    Check out their website at http://chicagovolunteerexpo.com/. Email them at chicagovolunteerexpo@gmail.com.

  • One-time volunteer opportunity: STEM event for middle school girls, Sat. 3/22 (Registration required)

    Are you interested in helping inspire and empower middle school girls to pursue science and math careers? Expanding Your Horizons - Chicago could use your help! We are looking for volunteers to help out at the second Expanding Your Horizons - Chicago conference on Saturday, March 22nd at the University of Chicago in Hyde Park. We will need volunteers from approximately 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., but not all volunteer jobs have to last all day.  Example positions include helping with registration, setting up and assisting workshop leaders, ushering participants between locations, distributing lunch, and cleaning up facilities.  There will be a reception with food and refreshments for volunteers at the end of the day.  

    Chicago Expanding Your Horizons is a one-day conference where 200 middle school girls participate in hands-on science, technology, engineering, and math workshops. It is an exciting event for both the girls and volunteers, and we hope you will help us make this year’s conference a success! More information about the conference can be found on our website at https://sites.google.com/site/eyhchicago/.

    Volunteers will be expected to attend a mandatory orientation session the week before the conference at the University of Chicago campus.  The dates for training this year are March 15, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. or March 19, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.  We are trying to recruit around 50 volunteers to help the conference day run smoothly.   Are you interested? Do you know somebody who might be interested?  The volunteer registration form can be found at https://sites.google.com/site/eyhchicago/volunteer-sign-up.

    Contact Jon Yaggie at jyaggi2@uic.edu with questions.

  • Books for Africa Collection Drive, Until Wed. 3/19

    Student Leadership Development and Volunteer Services (SLDVS) announces its Annual Spring Collection Drive will take place across campus now until Wednesday, March 19. A donation bin is conveniently located in the lobby of the Honors College. 

    This semesters drive will support the Books for Africa Project, collecting book donations to re-stock the post-war libraries of Freetown, Sierra Leone. 

    Give a book, change a life! Consider donating any new or used:
    -Childrens books
    -Teen/Young Adult books
    -Adult fiction and non-fiction
    -University Textbooks
    -Scholarly Resources
    -Teaching Supplements of all levels

    Books for Africa recognizes that education is the great equalizer in the world, and books are the foundation of a strong educational system. For many people in Africa, the gift of books truly is a gift of hope. We all have something to share and we encourage you to contribute books that will help provide the tools of empowerment to the next generation of parents, teachers, and leaders in Africa. Please contact Casey at clowma2@uic.edu for questions or information.

  • ASB Spring Break Volunteer Applications Due Fri. 2/28

    Alternative Spring Break is looking for volunteers interested in spending their spring break giving back! We have organized 7 volunteer trips across the U.S. that students can apply for using the online application at asb-uic.org. Trip details and information are also available on the website. Applications will be due February 28th. 

  • Paid tutoring position with Empowerment through Education and Exposure

    Empowerment Through Education and Exposure is hiring part-time tutors for children.  The tutor will work about 4 hours per week at one of several locations throughout the metro Chicago area.  The position pays $15/hour.  Some tutoring sites continue through the end of the semester while others may end in March and/or April.  See the attached flyer for a complete job description and list of required qualifications.  Contact Erica Earnest at eearnest@eeeyouth.org with questions.

  • Vote for ASB's Hurricane Katrina Relief Project in this nationwide contest! Winner receives $2500!

    Vote for Alternative Spring Break in this nationwide contest held by Cengage on Facebook! https://apps.facebook.com/alternabreak/contests/330790/voteable_entries/69002390  ASB's Hurricane Katrina Relief project is a spring break project that could receive $2500 of funding towards the cause. Hurry and vote today!  Contact asbuic@gmail.com with questions.

  • Chicago Childcare Collective Seeking Volunteers

    The Chicago Childcare Collective (ChiChiCo) is a group of volunteers who support the participation of parents, especially mothers, in racial and economic justice work. The collective matches volunteers with community organizations across the city to have fun with kids while their parents participate in and lead organizing efforts to defend their rights and build a better Chicago.  ChiChiCo is currently seeking volunteers to provide childcare for kids.  More information about ChiChiCo, including the simple process for getting involved, is available at www.chichico.org.  Contact Isaac Stewart-Silver at istewart@macalester.edu with questions.

  • Illinois College Advising Corps (ICAC) position for May graduates, Due 3/28

    The mission of the Illinois College Advising Corps (ICAC) is to assist, educate, lead and inspire first generation, low-income, underrepresented youth in the enrollment and completion of post-secondary education. ICAC advisers are appointed to an Illinois high school and work alongside the school’s college/academic counselors. They lead senior high school students through the college application process, but more importantly, they strengthen the college-going culture at their respective high schools.

    Applicants must be recent graduates of one of the three University of Illinois campuses with a bachelor’s degree awarded in either May 2014*, December 2013, August 2013 or May 2013*August 2014 graduates are not eligible.

    The job posting can be found by clicking on the following link.  The posting closes on 3/28/14.

    https://uajobs.hr.uillinois.edu/employment/search-jobs/details?jobID=39534&job=visiting-college-access-counselor-multiple-2014 

    View the website at icac.uillinois.edu. Contact Rodrigo Lopez at rlopez28@uillinois.edu or (224) 381-9056 with questions.

  • Volunteer to be an ESL Tutor at Aquinas Literacy Center, Training on Fri. 5/2-5/3

    Become a volunteer English as a Second Language tutor at Aquinas Literacy Center! Volunteer tutors are needed to instruct limited English proficient adult learners for 90 minutes per week at our Center, located at 3540 S Hermitage.

    All instruction is one-on-one and training is provided. Knowledge of a second language is not required; all instruction is in English.

    Join us for our two-part tutor training: Friday, May 2 (6pm - 9pm) and Saturday, May 3 (9am to 3pm). Tutors must attend both days for certification.

    View the website at http://aquinasliteracycenter.org/.  For more information and to RSVP, please contact Lori Rogers at 773.927.0512 or email aquinasliteracy@gmail.com

    Since 1996, Aquinas Literacy Center, through English-language instruction, has enabled learners to transform their lives by acquiring skills to become successful parents, productive workers and responsible citizens.

     

  • Volunteer Judges Needed for Elementary School Science Fair, Thurs. 5/15

    Skinner West Elementary School is looking for volunteers for their science fairs next week.

    1st Grade Science Fair: Thursday, May 15th at 9:30 am

    3rd Grade Science Fair: Thursday, May 15th at 2:15 pm

    5th Grade Science Fair: Friday, May 16th at 2:15 pm

    As it is 1st - 5th grade science fair projects, no need to be a rocket scientist! But if you are one, they would love to have you too.  Interested?  Contact Veronica Arreola, Director of the Women in Science and Engineering Program at via@uic.edu or 312.355.1813.

    Skinner West
    1260 West Adams Street
    Chicago


  • Social Justice engagement: FREEDOM SUMMER '64 events

    The Social Justice Initiative at UIC invites Honors College students to get actively involved in the FREEDOM DREAMS...FREEDOM NOW Conference that is coming up May 28-May 30 This is a three-day gathering in honor of the 50th anniversary of Freedom Summer '64 and will include activists, community leaders, students, scholars and artists and UIC faculty and students, and will feature a keynote address by Julian Bond (Co-Found of SNCC and first President of the Southern Poverty Law Center). Check out the full list of speakers here: http://chicagofreedomsummer.org/speakers/ 

    Student volunteers will help prepare for the conference, run it, attend sessions and be included in special pre-conference and post-conference events with the guests and participants. This is a great foundation for a summer Honors Activity or an for beginning work on a related capstone. Act now to get involved. Send an email expressing your interest in the subject and the planned events immediately to Associate Dean Sara Hall at sahall@uic.edu . 

    All the information you need can be found here: http://chicagofreedomsummer.org/freedom-dreams-freedom-now/ 

    If you are not familiar with the history of Freedom Summer, this is a good place to start: http://www.history.com/topics/black-history/freedom-summer 

  • Arts of Life Volunteer Opportunities

    The Arts of Life (http://artsoflife.org/) is a Chicago organization comprised of two professional arts studios working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  They have an ongoing need for volunteers and (un-paid) interns.  This is a wonderful opportunity for students of all academic backgrounds to participate in volunteer activities benefiting the disabled populations in Chicago.

    Please visit Arts of Life's website and contact Ms. Catie Norcott (cnorcott@artsoflife.or) if you are interested in volunteer and internship opportunities.

  • Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health Youth Leadership Council, Application Due Mon. 6/23

    The Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health (ICAH) is a network of empowered youth and allied adults who transform public consciousness and build the capacity of systems to support the sexual health, identity and rights of youth. ICAH’s priorities
    include:
    • Reduce stigma and shame around youth sexuality and decision making
    • Increase access to accurate sexual health information and to health care
    • Increase youth voice within systems that impact their lives
    • Foster mutually-respectful relationships between youth and adults
    • Increase access to safe relationships and environments that promote a positive perception of self.

    Members of the Youth Leadership Council learn how to organize and educate peers and adults within their communities. They lead ICAH’s peer education work in schools and programs, organize in school, family and healthcare systems, and implement new media campaigns that transform public consciousness around youth sexual decision-making.

    See the flyer and application below for more information.  Contact Nikki Zaleski at nikki@icah.org with questions.  Applications are due Monday, June 23.

  • CDOT Seeking Volunteers to Count Pedestrians

    The Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) Pedestrian Program seeks volunteers to help count pedestrian traffic at key locations across the city. Reliable pedestrian counts provide critical data for assessing and improving pedestrian safety and walkability as well as tracking city-wide trends in walking to work, school, and transit.

    The count contributes to the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Project (http://bikepeddocumentation.org/) and helps meet goals set out in Chicago’s Pedestrian Plan (http://chicagocompletestreets.org/pedestrianplan/).

    When:  July 8-10, 2014, 4:30-7 PM
    Where: Various locations around downtown Chicago

    CDOT appreciates your assistance in helping to develop this pedestrian initiative. Please email your interest to Eric Hanss, Pedestrian Program Project Manager, at eric.hanss@activetrans.org 

  • Center for Literacy Seeking Tutors for GED Students

    The Center for Literacy is looking for enthusiastic literacy tutors to support the reading and math improvement of Head Start parents. If you are reading this you could be a tutor!

    How can you help?
    • Tutor English or Spanish speaking GED Students
    • Participate in orientation, training's, and observations as offered.
    • Be willing to commit to 2 hours per week for a minimum of one quarter

    Where can you help?
    • 10 South Kedzie 
    • 4314 South Cottage Grove 
    • 4800 South Paulina (Spanish GED site ) 
    • other locations not listed 

    When?
    • Now through July 2014
    • 9:00 am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm -3:00pm

    Benefits?
    • Make a difference in the lives of others
    • Gain work experience
    • Develop new skills
    • Meet interesting people
    • Possibly become volunteer of the month 

    Volunteer and Make a difference - 312-413-9869
    This project was made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a division of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds designated for literacy.

  • Honors Activity Option: Apply to be an HON 101 TA! Apply by 7/31

    Did you enjoy your HON 101 course?  Do you have experience in tutoring, leading discussion groups, or assisting your professors?  The Honors College is seeking motivated, energetic Teaching Assistants for its Fall HON 101 courses.  Submit your application by July 31.

  • Tutoring Volunteer Opportunity at Metro Achievement Center for Girls and Midtown Center for Boys

    VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY AT METRO, 310 S. Peoria Street OR MIDTOWN, located in BUCKTOWN Opportunity:  

    One-on-One tutoring/mentoring for 4th, 5th, or 6th grade students
        Metro uses all female tutors
        Midtown uses all male tutors

    Location:    Metro – 310 S. Peoria Street (just over the expressway from UIC)
                     Midtown-1819 N. Wood (a few minutes from the Damen stop on the blue line)

    Time commitment: 2 hours, 1 night a week (semester to semester basis)
        Metro – 6-8 PM on Monday or Wednesday
        Midtown – 6:30-8:30 PM Monday or Thursday, 10-12 on Saturday

    Contact:  
        Metro: Christina Gibson     cgibson@midtown-metro.org  or 312-226-4886 x 232
        Midtown: Oscar Calderon   ocalderon@midtown-metro.org or 773-292-2662

    Visit our website and apply online at www.midtown-metro.org/apply or call/e-mail respective contact person.

  • New Life Volunteering Society Tutoring Recruitment

    Who: Any interested incoming and returning Honors College students
    What: Recruitment for new tutors for the New Life Volunteering Society to tutor disadvantaged Chicago public school students after school at no cost to the student being tutored.
    When: During the semester, the tutor will pick one or more of the numerous time slots available. The sessions are Monday through Friday and there are two sections each day that are each 1.5 hours long. The usual times are 4-5:30 pm or 5:30-7 pm but the tutor can adjust it to fit his or her schedule.
    Where: Burnam Hall Room 220 is where tutoring takes place during the semester.
    Why: To help promote education and improve the quality of learning for students who need it the most.
    How: Contact the NLVS Co-Chairs, Rafid Rahman or Niyati Patel, at nlvstutoring@gmail.com

  • Volunteer Opportunity to work with young adults with autism

    The Julie+Michael Tracy Family Foundation/Urban Autism Solutions is looking for young, energetic students to be a part of the community of Project 1212, a new residence for young adults with disabilities in the University Village neighborhood. They are seeking students who can fill the role of mentor or community guide to a young adult with autism or related communication disability during the afternoon or weekends.
     
    Their residents travel to their health clubs, Starbucks, church and other community locations and need some initial direction and supervision. They have one or 2 residents who would also enjoy walking and running with you. The organization offers cooking classes as well as movie nights and meet-ups at Pompeii for young adults with autism, and would love to have your company.
     
    The Julie+Michael Tracy Family Foundation/Urban Autism Solutions is dedicated to addressing challenges facing young adults with autism. They are creating fully integrated community lives for our participants right in your neighborhood!  Please let us know if you are interested in volunteering with us.
     
    Call or email: Julie@jmtf.org or Tara@jmtf.org for more information
  • Honors Activity Option: Aquinas Literacy Center Tutor, Training on 8/22-8/23

    Become a volunteer English as a Second Language tutor at Aquinas Literacy Center! Volunteer tutors are needed to instruct limited English proficient adult learners for 90 minutes per week at our Center, located at 3540 S Hermitage. All instruction is one-on-one and training is provided. Knowledge of a second language is not required; all instruction is in English. Join us for our two-part tutor training: Friday, August 22nd (6pm to 9pm) and Saturday, August 23rd (9am to 3pm). Tutors must attend both days for certification. Pre registration is required. For more information and to register for training, please contact Lori Rogers at 773.927.0512 or email aquinasliteracy@gmail.com. Since 1996, Aquinas Literacy Center, through English-language instruction, has enabled learners to transform their lives by acquiring skills to become successful parents, productive workers and responsible citizens.

  • Erie READS Youth Tutor Program Seeking Volunteers

    Erie READS Youth Tutor

    Organization Description:

    Erie Neighborhood House is a community service agency founded in 1870 that promotes a just and inclusive society by strengthening the local community through skill-building, access to critical resources, advocacy and collaborative action.

    Position Responsibilities:

    Youth involved in the READS program will work one-on-one with school age students to build critical thinking and language skills. Youth and students will collaborate, reading books about social justice and community action and extending those books through art, role-play and kinetic activities. Youth will be asked to read a book out loud occasionally and must be willing to engage younger students thru conversation, art and activities.

    Youth in the program will be encouraged to bring their own ideas and activities to the program as well as any thoughts on improvement. Many of our school age students are bilingual; bilingual youth comfortable communicating in Spanish and English are welcome! Any students interested in local and historical social justice movements are encouraged to participate.

    The program will be structured thru the beginning of February, at which time youth and students will be encouraged to create their own curriculum for the remainder of the year. The Reading Specialist will be available to aide in any curricula building effort; and backup plans will be available to provide a space where creation is welcome but not mandatory.

    Preference will be given to youth who are able and willing to attend for at least one semester. Youth are encouraged to volunteer the entire school year to build relationships with students.

    Location: 2 locations

    Erie Neighborhood House (2 blocks east of Ashland Ave., 2 blocks south of Chicago Ave.)
    1347 West Erie Street
    Chicago, IL 60622

    Erie Charter School (2 blocks east of California Ave., 2 blocks south of North Ave.)
    1405 North Washtenaw St.
    Chicago, IL 60622  

    Days & Hours:

    Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday
    3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

    If interested, please contact:

    Dan Adams
    Reading Specialist
    Erie Neighborhood House
    312 666 3430  ext. 2126
    dadams@eriehouse.org
    www.eriehouse.org

  • Project: Vision seeking After-School Tutors

    Seeking After School Tutors

    Project: VISION (www.projectvisionchicago.org) is a small grassroots organization serving youth age 12-18 in Chicago's Chinatown & Bridgeport neighborhoods. We are seeking paid and volunteer tutors for our After School Homework Tutoring Program. Tutors will assist students in grades 6-12 with homework and provide enrichment activities to help students develop academic skills and knowledge. Each tutor will work with 4-5 students each afternoon and assist the Program Coordinator with maintaining student records. We are seeking tutors with strong personal academic records and enthusiasm and passion for teaching!

    Qualifications:

    -Must be at least college sophomore
    -Strong academic record (undergraduate GPA of at least 3.3/4.0) and confident in subjects including English, history, and higher math (i.e. algebra, geometry, advanced alegebra, pre-calculus), and sciences (i.e. biology, chemistry and physics).
    -Good communication skills
    -Reliable, punctual, self-motivated and able to work well with a team
    -PAID TUTORS must be available to work 10-20 hours/week (in minimum 3 hour blocks).
    -VOLUNTEER TUTORS must be available to work at least one 3 hour block per week. Shifts are available Mondays-Fridays 3-7pm and Saturdays 10a-1p. 
    -All tutors must be able to commit to working the entire academic year (through 6/15/15)
    -Experience working with youth in the 12-18 age group is preferred.

    Please refer to our Idealist post for further details:
    http://www.idealist.org/view/job/PnSb9Phx3w8d/

    To apply, please send a resume (and cover letter for paid position candidates) to us via email at: staff@projectvisionchicago.org

    Thank you for your interest!
    --

    -----
    Project:VISION, Inc.

    staff@projectvisionchicago.org

     

    Our VISION is a world with new generations of independent, fulfilled individuals centered in their strengths and committed to global responsibility.

    http://www.projectVISIONchicago.org/

  • First Project ESTEEM Meeting, Mon. 9/8

    Project ESTEEMs first meeting of the semester will be September 8th at 5:30 in the Honors College quiet study room! Please join us if you enjoy science, teaching, kids, or fun! It can be an option for an honors activity, provided you meet the requirements listed in the Honors Handbook. If you'd like more information, email project.esteem13@gmail.com!

  • GIVE (Growth International Volunteer Excursions) Info Meeting, Wed. 9/3

    VOLUNTEER IN NICARAGUA, THAILAND, AND TANZANIA WITH GIVE AND “BE THE ROOTS OF CHANGE”!
     
    **Note: This is not a UIC organization or a direct exchange program connected with UIC, so students should see their adviser in their degree granting college and the financial aid office to plan academically and financially if interested.**
     
    Immerse yourself in a foreign culture and help the community drive sustainable change while earning academic credit by joining Growth International Volunteer Excursions (GIVE)GIVE is having information sessions on Wednesday, September 3rd about unique volunteer opportunities and our fully accredited academic course in Central America, Southeast Asia, and Africa this upcoming winter and summer. We hope to see you there!
     
    Become a part of our volunteer community and empower local villages abroad in Northern ThailandNicaragua, and Tanzania. You might earn university academic credit by participating in a unique, accredited experiential learning course that will provide you with life changing professional and personal growth!
     
    GIVE is dedicated to creating opportunities for community development and service learning overseas through education, sustainable infrastructure projects, and environmental conservation. As a GIVE volunteer, you will build schools out of recyclable materials, implement fresh water projects, teach English, complete marine and environmental conservation projects, and help to protect critically endangered species. 


    In conjunction, you will get the chance to immerse yourself in the culture of your host country and participate in incredible adventure travel within the region. This includes (but is not limited to): overnight safaris in Africa, sand-boarding down an active volcano in Nicaragua, scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming with dolphins and sharks in tropical waters, surfing, cave exploration, volunteering at elephant sanctuaries in Thailand, and much more!   
     
    GIVE is committed to using best practices in sustainable development. Our development approach is supported and vetted by numerous experts in the field, and is designed to empower our host communities.  For example, GIVE volunteers constructed an entire secondary school out of 15,000 plastic bottles recycled straight from the community, and is funding desperately needed technical education initiatives for a fishing village in rural Nicaragua.
     
    Not only will you have a hands-on experience, you will also have the opportunity to learn about sustainable development and cross-cultural relations through our UNIV 304 International Sustainable Development course offered in partnership with Central Washington University! 
     
    Now it’s your turn to be part of more innovative, relevant, and unique projects that will change your life and the lives of the locals you are assisting as well. Make the world your classroom, make an impact overseas, and be the roots of change!
     
    Come meet us to learn more about volunteering abroad for credit!  Meetings are this Wednesday, September 3rd in the Student Center East on the 7th floor, room 712! Meetings start at 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00pm!
     
    Feel free to stay for the whole meeting or come and go as you please!  You can also visit our website for more information at www.givevolunteers.org.
     
    Cheers!  
    The GIVE Team
    Growth International Volunteer Excursions (GIVE)
    (206) 973-7791  I skype: Info.Give
    2442 NW Market St. #425, Seattle, WA 98107  
    "Be the Roots of Change"
  • Honors Activity Option: Volunteer to be a Lab Assistant for a visually-impaired UIC student

    The UIC Disability Resource Center in need of two students (one for each class) to serve as the lab assistant for a student who is blind.  The lab assistant would be responsible for attending each weekly lab session and describing any visual aspects of the lab or completing any physical aspects of the lab the student needs assistance with.  There is no formal training needed for the position.  The student should just be a good listener, willing to help, and able to collaborate with the student to make sure that his/her needs are being met.

    Here is information on each of the labs:

    OPTION 1:PHYS 112 Astronomy and the Universe

    Duties: Lab Assistant will help a student with a visual impairment complete the PHYS 112 labs. Duties will vary depending on lab but expect to help a student with the physical and visual aspects of the astronomy labs.  The student would be responsible for informing the assistant what tasks are needed such as filling out or reading tables aloud, describing images in detail.

    DAYS AND TIMES TBD 

    Contact Info: If interested please contact Sara Vogt at svogt1@uic.edu or 312-413-9467

    OPTION 2: EAES 101 Global Environmental Change

    Duties: Lab Assistant will help a student with a visual impairment complete the EAES 101 labs. Duties will vary depending on lab but expect to help a student with the physical and visual aspects of the astronomy labs.  The student would be responsible for informing the assistant what tasks are needed such as filling out or reading tables aloud, describing images in detail.

    Wednesdays, 8-9:50 am in SEL – East room 1099 

    Contact Info: If interested please contact Sara Vogt at svogt1@uic.edu or 312-413-9467

  • Fall Leadership and Service Expo, Thurs. 9/11

    Are you looking for a short term or long term volunteer opportunity? Wondering how you can use your skills and interests to help out those in need?

    Join us for UIC’s annual LEADERSHIP & SERVICE EXPO on THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11!

    OVER 50 non-profit agencies will be in attendance at this event and they are in need of your wonderful talents!  Stop by to learn about volunteer and internship opportunities in and around Chicagoland.

    Thursday, September 11, 2014
    11:00am to 1:00pm
    Lecture Center Plaza/the Quad

    All students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to stop by the Expo, and it’s a great chance to connect with local non-profit organizations.  A wide variety of agencies will be represented, focused on work with youth, the environment, the arts, animals, human rights, community development, health, and more!  Find service and volunteer opportunities that match your interests, learn more about the needs of your communities, and discover how you can help CHANGE THE WORLD!

    For more information or to indicate if you require any accommodations to participate in this event, please contact Olivia Desormeaux at 312-996-4500 or odesor3@uic.edu.

  • Lawndale Christian Health Center seeking volunteers, Apply by 9/16

    The Lawndale Christian Health Center is looking for dedicated, passionate volunteers. Volunteers must be able to serve throughout the academic year. We are a large urban health center located in West Chicago and complete over 150,000 visits annually across our five sites. Driven by our faith-based mission, we have several positions available for students who are interested in learning more about urban healthcare and serving the underserved. Attached is a short description of our health center and volunteer program along with our volunteer application. Please note we are only accepting applications through email until September 16th.  Questions?  Look at the attached materials and contact Sarah Lomahan at slomah2@uic.edu 

  • Civic Engagement Discourse Fund Grants – Use to develop an Activity or Capstone project! Due 9/19

    Do you have a civic engagement or public outreach idea or have you been inspired by a process of civic engagement? Approach your fellow or another faculty mentor and ask if you can collaborate on a project that could be funded by this initiative. Projects can count as activities or be the foundation of Capstone projects!

    Civic Engagement Discourse Fund Grants

    IPCE announces the availability of funding to support events that facilitate public discourse on policy issues or the policy implications of university research.

    Eligible events include public forums, dialogues, town hall meetings, and small conferences or workshops that are either open to the public or that target a specific audience such as policy advocates, residents of specific neighborhoods, or a subpopulation such as seniors or youth.  All UIC faculty and staff of research institutes or centers are eligible to apply. IPCE Discourse Fund Awards are a maximum of $4,000 each.  Events must be held by May 31, 2015.   

    Applications must be submitted electronically by September 19, 2014. More details including a full announcement, selection criteria, and application are available at www.ipce.uic.edu.  

    If you have any questions, please contact Norma Ramos at (312) 355-0095.  

  • Be a peer mentor for Women in Science and Engineering

    The Women in Science & Engineering program needs you to help mentor new UIC students. We are looking for continuing UIC women students in the following majors:

    Bioengineering
    Biological Sciences
    Chemistry
    Chemical Engineering
    Computer Engineering
    Earth & Environmental Sciences
    Industrial Engineering
    Mathematics
    Pre-Nursing
    Pre-Med (any major
    Engineering (any major)

    The WISE peer mentor program has seen success with the students who participate including a higher 6year graduation rate and higher final GPA than women who did not participate. Mentors are expected to meet with their mentee once a month in person and stay in touch between meetings. You can read more about our program at https://crwg.uic.edu/wise-home/campus/mentoring/.

    You can also use this opportunity as your Honors activity.

    Thank you,
    Veronica I. Arreola
    Director, Women in Science & Engineering

  • Clinton Global Initiative Information Session, Wed. 9/17

    The Clinton Global Initiative University is a program created by Bill Clinton in 2007 which enables inspired undergraduate and graduate students wishing to create change in their communities to meet and learn to change their ideas into action.

    Do you want to make a difference in your community? Do you feel charged by social justice? The Clinton Global Initiative University was created by Bill Clinton in 2007 to help you achieve realtime social impact. CGI U enables inspired undergraduate students to make meaningful change in their communities.

    Each year, CGI U convenes a meeting where students, youth organizations, and renowned experts come together to turn ideas into action. President Clinton and Chelsea Clinton will host the eighth annual CGI U meeting from March 6-8, 2015 at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. Every CGI U student must develop a Commitment to Action: a new, specific, and measurable plan that addresses a challenge on their campus, in the local community, or around the world. Commitments are made in CGI Us five focus areas: Education, Environment and Climate Change, Peace and Human Rights, Poverty Alleviation, and Public Health. CGI U allows students with exceptional ideas to apply for grant money to make their ideas into realities.
    The 2014 conference was held on the campus of Arizona State University in Phoenix, AZ. Innovators and community contributors from all around the world came together to discuss how youth can be more impactful in their non profit commitments.

    The Clinton Foundation offers grants for students to attend the conference. In order to be considered for Travel Assistance applications must be received by OCTOBER 17th. The final deadline for conference attendance is DECEMBER 1ST. You MUST provide your contact information on this form in order to apply for CGI U.
    https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1iCnKbaVzAmgctGGzQGRrG0oGxIsUa8JQhCdov7GFegA/viewform?usp=send_form

    If you are interested in finding out more about the conference, the types of projects that can be done and how to apply, informational sessions will be hosted on the following dates for the Fall 2014 semester:

    Wed. 9/17, 4:30 pm, 2560 UH

    To learn more about the conference you can visit the official CGI U website(http://www.cgiu.org/default.asp) or attend a campus workshop!! Please contact Gayatri Sanku at sanku2@uic.edu with any questions.


  • Center for Literacy Seeking Volunteer Literacy Tutors for Adults

    The Center for Literacy is looking for enthusiastic Volunteer Literacy Tutors to support the reading, math and English improvement of Head Start parents. If you are reading this you could be a Volunteer Literacy Tutor!

    How can you help?
    • Tutor English or Spanish speaking GED Students
    • Participate in orientation, training's, and observations as offered.
    • Be willing to commit to 2 hours per week for a minimum of one quarter

    Where can you help?
    • 10 South Kedzie 
    • 4314 South Cottage Grove 
    • 4800 South Paulina (Spanish GED site ) 
    • other locations not listed 

    When?
    • Now through July 2015
    • 9:00 am – 12:00pm and 1:00pm -3:00pm

    Benefits?
    • Make a difference in the lives of others
    • Gain work experience
    • Develop new skills
    • Meet interesting people
    • Possibly become Volunteer Literacy Tutors of the month 

    Volunteer and Make a difference - 312-413-9869
    cfl.uic.edu/volunteer
    Questions? Contact osinaike@uic.edu

    This project was made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a division of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds designated for literacy.

  • Honors Activity Option: Homework Hotline Seeking Tutors for Monday or Tuesday evenings, Apply ASAP

    Do you enjoy helping children learn in a variety of school subjects?  Would you like to be a volunteer for a marquee television network?  Are you looking for an Honors Activity that is only one evening a week?  The NBC Homework Hotline is for you!  Volunteers for NBC Homework Hotline provide homework help in all subjects by phone to Chicago-area youth. 

    NBC Homework Hotline currently needs more student volunteers on Monday and Tuesday nights from 5 - 8pm!  You will volunteer at the NBC Tower located at 454 N. Columbus Drive. If you're interested in volunteering one of those days, email Sarah Gardiner at sarahg1@uic.edu.

  • Dreams for Kids seeking youth mentors, Apply by 10/12

    Dreams for Kids, a 501(c)3 non-profit children's charity, seeking fun, outgoing, dynamic college students to become Dream Leader Mentors (DLMs) for its annual We Are the Change (WATC) youth conference and beyond. Mentors will lead a group of ten student participants in a day full of break out sessions (curriculum training provided) about self-exploration and learning about enacting change domestically and internationally to be our world's future leaders!

    Who you are:

    •  Current college student with experience and a passion for working with diverse youth
    •  Posses excellent verbal communication skills to lead student breakout sessions
    •  Able to attend MANDATORY one day Conference Curriculum training (dates TBA)
    •  Able to commit 1-2 hours per week to continue working and meeting with your team to plan and implement community service projects during the 2014-2015 school year. 

     Interested students can read more about the role and fill out the Online Application here: 

    Dream Leader Mentors Online Application

    Questions?  Contact Shannon Claiborne, Interim Executive Director of Dreams for Kids, at sclaiborne@dreamsforkids.org

  • Volunteer for the Chicago Marathon with SFP and the Chicago Diabetes Project, Sun. 10/12

    Join the SFP Team for volunteering for the Chicago Marathon on 10/12 from 7:45am - 12:00pm. We will meet outside SCE to Cheer at Mile 17 as part of the Chicago Diabetes Project, Help outrun diabetes! Free T-shirts, food and drinks for each volunteer!

    Sign up here: (http://bit.ly/marathon-volunteer) Earlier the better since space may be limited! Please put the Society of Future Physicians as the team name.

    The Chicago Diabetes Project is a global collaboration of scientists working to make islet cell transplantation a viable treatment option for all who suffer with diabetes. Founded and directed by Chief of Transplantation Surgery & Honors College Faculty Fellow Dr. Jose Oberholzer.

    Questions? Contact Rahul Patel at rpate243@uic.edu

  • Truman Scholarship for Careers in Public Service, Deadline 10/26

    Are you committed to public service?  Apply for the Truman and Public Service Scholarships!

    The Truman is a $30,000 scholarship for juniors who are committed to careers in public service at a leadership level. Students apply during their third year and if they win, the money is applied to graduate/professional school studies.  The Truman Foundation conceives of public service broadly. It could be activism, science research, community leadership, elected office, government employment, education, policy, urban issues -the list goes on.

    The deadline is October 26.  You can find more information at www.truman.gov  and http://www.uic.edu/depts/oaa/ssp/truman

    The Office of Special Scholarship Programs assists current undergraduate and professional school students with applying for awards, internships and other educational opportunities. If you are interested in this award, please contact OSSP, who will help you with the application process in all its steps: 312-355-2477, ssp@uic.edu .

  • Volunteer for Chicago Ideas Week! 10/13-10/19

    Chicago Ideas Week (CIW) is about the sharing of ideas, inspiring action, and igniting change to positively impact our world. People who come to CIW are artists, engineers, technologists, inventors, scientists, musicians, economists, explorers — and, well...just innately passionate. For more information on this year’s schedule please go to https://www.chicagoideas.com/years/2014/schedule

    For one week each October, CIW brings together some of the world's most outstanding speakers to present their ideas and inspire the innovations of tomorrow at 80+ sessions across the city of Chicago. CIW aims to be the platform for sharing big ideas and making big things happen.

    Chicago Ideas Week is an asset that belongs uniquely to Chicago, and reflects our great city in its inclusiveness, diversity and excellence of intellectual discourse. It is a platform that continues to be shaped by the people, organizations and institutions that care about the future of Chicago as well as communities around the globe.

    Volunteers are needed for events taking place October 13-19. Please log in and sign up to volunteer. As a volunteer you may have the opportunity to attend the events at which you are placed: https://www.chicagoideas.com/volunteer 

  • UIC Pop-Up Pantry Available Friday; Donate Food to a Food Drive, 11/19 – 11/20

    The Wellness Center and the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) want to inform you of a new resource on campus for homeless students and low-income students aimed at combating food insecurity. The new initiative is called Pop-Up Pantry, and is it a pop-up style food pantry offering canned goods and non-perishable items to students. November 21, 2014, 2014 will be the launch of this service, and the service is available to all registered UIC students.

    Location: Student Center East, rm.604A
    Time: 11:00am-4:00pm
    Date: November 21, 2014
    Students will need their I-card

    "Let's make sure no UIC student goes hungry this Thanksgiving."

    The Wellness Center, USG, and the Greek Programming Board are organizing a food drive to support the Pop-Up Pantry.
    November 19th & 20th at the Commuter Student Resource Center from 10:00am-5:00pm.

    • • Students who donate will be entered into a raffle to win a $25 gift card to the bookstore.
    • • Donate 5-15 items, and receive a free water bottle or coffee tumbler
    • • Donate 16 items or more, and receive a free USG hoodie

    If you are unable to come to the food drive at the CSRC, we have collection bins around campus.

    Collection Bin Locations:

    • • Dean of Students Office
    • • Undergraduate Student Success Center
    • • African American Academic Network
    • • With more locations on East & West Campus coming soon.

    Food Drive Donation Guidelines:

    Products must be;

    • • In cans, cartons, or bags
    • • Non-perishable (requires no refrigeration or freezing)
    • • In the original container with the original product label
    • • Within two weeks of the "Best Buy," or Best If Used by dates
    • • Free of damage, stains, moisture, etc.
    • • We will not accept items in glass containers for safety reasons.
    • • Items donated must be unopened.

    Items most needed:

    • • Canned Fish/Canned Meats
    • • Canned Soup or Soup Packets
    • • Canned Vegetables
    • • Canned Beans
    • • Cereal /Granola Bars/Oatmeal
    • • Instant meal in a cup (ex. mac & cheese)
    • • Rice / Pasta
    • • Peanut Butter/Jelly
    • • Instant Coffee/Tea
    • • Powdered Milk
    • • Baby Food