One-time interfaith service-learning events are important for generating interest, enthusiasm, and support. But rarely do they have a lasting impact on their own. Extensive research shows the importance of both the intensity and duration of service-learning experience for impacting young people's lives and also ensuring that the service contributes meaningfully to community life.

 

This "going deeper" section introduces the quality standards for service-learning and the basic steps in a service-learning process, each of which is integrated with an interfaith focus.

Quality Matters

Not all interfaith service-learning has a lasting impact. And bad experiences can even have a negative impact. An extensive research review and consensus-building process has identified standards of quality service-learning. Though developed schools, they suggest key elements to consider. Learn more . . .

The Interfaith Service-Learning Process

Quality service-learning is more than a one-day event or even just a high-quality service project. It addresses the following six components. When each of these is intentionally accomplished, you are much more likely to have a positive interfaith service-learning experience that sets a stage for a lifetime of engagement.

1. Investigate Community Priorities

Brainstorming an interesting project to do isn't enough. A critical first step is to listen to the community to identify its priorities, then connect those priorities with your own commitments and passions. Learn more . . .

2. Prepare to Learn, Serve, and Grow

Preparation is a key step so that your service, learning, and growth goals are accomplished effectively. Preparation involves logistics (such as having supplies on hand), but it also involves ensuring that everyone has a basic understanding of the issues at stake. Learn more . . .

3. Take Action for the Common Good

Accomplishing the service goals for the common good is at the heart of interfaith service-learning. How do these experiences not only meet real community priorities, but also contribute to growth and learning? Learn more . . .

4. Reflect on the Experiences for Growth and Learning

Reflection and storytelling lie at the heart of the "learning" in interfaith service-learning. This process is often the time when the interfaith dialogue becomes most profound and meaningful. Learn more . . .

5. Demonstrate and Celebrate Impact, Growth, and Learning

Telling about what you've learned and how you've had an impact isn't for bragging. It's an important part of internalizing the learning, building support for your efforts, and enticing others to get involved. Learn more . . .

6. Sustain Your Interfaith-Service-Learning Efforts

Interfaith service-learning is an ongoing process in which one experience builds on the next. What does it take to keep the momentum, growth, and impact going? This critical issue has its own section in this tool kit. Learn more . . .