The workshops bring students together to explore pressing social issues, learn about campus programs addressing those challenges and discover how to collaborate to make a greater impact.
At Elon University, the Kernodle Center for Civic Life empowers students to connect with diverse communities, take on local and global challenges, and discover the impact they can make in the world, including with the monthly Institute for Community and Civic Engagement Workshops.
Elon Volunteers! (EV!), a student-led organization that connects students with meaningful service opportunities in the community, hosts these workshops to bring students together to explore pressing social issues, learn about campus programs addressing those challenges, and discover how we can collaborate to make a greater impact.
EV! designs each workshop with intention, making sure the experience has a lasting impact. Every event begins by highlighting one of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which serves as the central theme for the evening. These goals are deeply connected to the mission of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life and to the needs of the local community, encouraging students to think critically about their role in creating change. After setting the stage, a community partner who works directly on the chosen issue shares their perspective and experiences. The program then features an EV! spotlight, where a student coordinator presents the meaningful work their program is doing to address the challenge.
“The Institute for Community and Civic Engagement is preparing Elon students for community leadership,” explains Bob Frigo, director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life. “During these monthly workshops, students engage with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on a local level, learn from nonprofit and government leaders, and gain the necessary skills to become change agents. The Institute is a training ground to develop the next generation of civic leaders.”
This September’s workshop was developed by EV! executive directors Lauren Klappholz ’26, Leah Brooker ’27, and Lillian Argabrite ’26. Reflecting on the event,
“For me, I find Institutes to be a meaningful time where you realize that, yes, while there are big social problems globally, they are experienced everywhere—even in Alamance County,” said Klappholz. “So, with this knowledge, I think it helps people to see that the little things contribute to a way bigger picture.”
By connecting with community partners, exploring important social issues and discovering ways to take action, attendees leave inspired and empowered to create change. Whether you’re looking to get involved, expand your perspective, or simply make an impact, attending an Institute for Community and Civic Engagement workshop will allow you to deepen your knowledge of how to make a meaningful impact not just at Elon but anywhere.