Service-Learning as Nonprofit Capacity Builder: Relationships, Reputation, Revenue

1. Service-Learning as Nonprofit Capacity Builder: Relationships, Reputation, Revenue Theresa S. Beyerle, Ph.D. University of Akron, Institute for Teaching and Learning tsb4@uakron.edu October 2013

2. Introduction Innovative service-learning is far more than traditional tutoring or one shot service projects. An urban community works together as university students solve problems and build capacity for local nonprofits.

3. Introduction What began as a funding rejection has become a successful model involving local funders, nonprofit organizations and a service-learning program.

4. Introduction The University of Akron’s approach to service-learning has fostered relationships, enhanced the institution’s reputation in the local community, and helped to generate revenue for the program itself.

5. UA Service-Learning approach What can the University of Akron do to help build the capacity of your organization? “Do you have a problem you can’t solve? Call us!”

6. Community based research: UA and the Akron Zoo

7. Relationships take various forms: Student-community partner Faculty-community partner Student-student Faculty-faculty (interdisciplinary) S-L office – faculty – community partner

8. Relationships Once students understand relationships with community partners they might explore: • What careers (potential jobs) exist here? • What can I gain from this organization?

9. Relationships Students also build rapport with their peers: We have to work together, so we might as well figure out how to get along.

10. Relationships • UA faculty/community partner relationships alleviate “ivory tower” mentality/reputation

11. Relationships • Faculty members from various disciplines work together

12. Reputation The University contributes to the community.

13. Reputation UA students demonstrate sensitivity along with skills and knowledge.

14. Reputation: UA students create model whale for local elementary schools

15. Revenue The model of service-learning as capacity builder for local nonprofits is very attractive to funders. Local foundations often refer nonprofits to the UA service-learning program when they are not able to accommodate funding requests.

16. Law student advocating for nonprofit

17. Pay it Forward Student-lead philanthropy enhances service-learning and serves as a capacity builder for the community.

18. Pay it Forward By the end of this semester: 1003 UA students 46 classes from various disciplines $46,800 50 different nonprofits involved

19. Conclusion This model works as an example of how town/gown collaboration can benefit all parties involved.