Among the many resources available for students at John Cabot University, there are even some geared toward giving back to the community. Much like JCU Activities and Trips, programs like John Cabot Community Service will give you the opportunity to get to know fellow students, staff, and faculty. Additionally, by taking part in one of the Community Service opportunities, you will be able to improve your skills, interact with the local community, and most importantly, lend a helping hand to those less fortunate.
Rome is an international city with many needs, just like any modern metropolis. Although it can be easy to get settled in your daily routines, focusing only on your academic calendar and social circle, it is very important to appreciate your host country, and specifically to give back to society, while truly becoming part of the Roman community.
What is JCU Community Service?
John Cabot University's Community Service program offers many different service opportunities throughout the semester, and even gives students the possibility to be awarded with an official Certificate of Participation for volunteering a certain number of hours with affiliated associations, as well as attending a Community Service Lecture and a Community Service Workshop. The program's slogan is "I C-A-R-E!", which stands for the core values they strive to embody: Community, Awareness, Respect, and Empowerment.
The goals of JCU's Community Service program are:
- Increase students’ personal development and civic engagement
- Nurture a sense of social responsibility and global citizenship
- Increase understanding of the issues pertinent to the institutions with whom they work
- Integrate students in the Roman community, as well as giving back to the locals that host JCU’s international student body
What kind of organizations can I volunteer with?
Whether you prefer workshops, lectures, or a more hands-on approach to community service, when it comes to helping others, there is something out there for everybody. The following are just a few examples of the associations and organizations affiliated with JCU:
- Grassroots
This student-led environmental club organizes events such as a monthly Trastevere clean-up. - Blood Drive
Students have the opportunity to donate blood to the Italian Blood Donors Association Federation in Fatebenefratelli Hospital, right here in Trastevere. - Casa Internazionale delle Donne
JCU students volunteer to teach English to women in need at the International Women's House shelter close to JCU. - Italy Reads
Teams of JCU student volunteers visit Italian high schools to participate in discussions of selected works of English literature. - Church of S. Lucia del Gonfalone
Students assist Father Franco with distributing breakfast, clothing, and hygiene items to marginalized communities at this church a short walk from JCU.
For more information you can check out the Community Service program brochure, or send an email to jcucommunityservice@johncabot.edu
