An Evaluation of a Self-directed, Non-hours Based Community Service Program for High School Students

Abstract:To encourage in youth social responsibility, many high schools require students to fulfill a specified number of service hours to graduate. However, with the aim of cultivating long-term social responsibility, schools are instead shifting to coaching students to serve in areas they are intrinsically passionate about, without mandatory service hour requirements. A case example is the Community Impact Program at Flintridge Preparatory School (Prep), a top-rated independent school. The purpose of this case study article is to share the steps in the development of this self-directed, non-hours based community service program and the results of a program evaluation, which involved conducting student focus groups and surveying nearly 300 students in the program and 42 alumni who had participated in the program for at least one year. Results revealed that while serving, students felt they experienced personal growth in leadership, project management and communication skills, and the ability to empathize with others. While serving, students also experienced a variety of logistical, procedural, and personal challenges, the most frequent challenge was finding the time to maintain consistent service engagement. Alumni reported that having access to service opportunities at college was a primary source of motivation to engage in community service after graduation. Past experiences at Prep (such as the school's annual community service fair and school sponsored service events) were also influential in developing purpose for sustained community service. Recommendations for program design, based on the findings, are provided for educators interested in developing self-directed, non-hours based community service programs.