Our community partnerships are an integral component of the Kernodle Center for Service Learning and Community Engagement. Each year, we partner with more than 80 local community agencies. These partners, including nonprofits, schools and government agencies, are the primary organizations in which Elon students serve. Resources and support are provided for our partners to sustain and strengthen our relationships with the community.
Student LINCS are Leaders in Collaborative Service. These students serve in leadership and supportive capacities within each organization. Selected by the community partner, students recruit, coordinate, and guide volunteers and academic service-learning students.
Our LINCS partners include:
Works to meet basic needs of the lonely, hungry and homeless while challenging and empowering them to become self-sufficient. Allied Churches is a three-tiered organization that includes an Emergency Night Shelter, Good Shepherd Kitchen and Christian Assistant Network. Students may get involved with the shelter, work in the office, serve or make food in the kitchen, or join the weekly milk drive.
Directs all federal housing projects in the City of Burlington. Students may volunteer in afterschool enrichment programs for children and the “Transition for Manhood” program for young boys.
Provides equestrian therapy and other educational experiences to people with disabilities. Service learners involved with Kopper Top generally have minimal contact with clients, unless scheduling arrangements are made for such opportunities. Service experiences include interaction with the center staff and learn how a nonprofit operates. Students also participate in caring for and feeding the animals used in therapy (cats, dogs, horses and other farm animals).
Feeds the hungry in our area. Students working here should expect to make bags, stock shelves and make deliveries. Saturdays often are “peanut butter and jelly days,” which include visiting low-income housing areas to distribute sandwiches.
Helps children mature physically, emotionally and spiritually by offering tutoring, recreational activities and events for the entire family. Service experiences center around tutoring a variety to students that include children from low-income families, who are involved in family court proceedings, who are homeless, or who have been abused. Other center referrals are from the school system for students who need extra tutorial assistance.
Enables youths, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to reach their full potential as responsible and caring citizens. Service experiences are centered around tutoring children, working with children in a recreational environment and offering mentoring relationships to meet individual needs.