Service-Learning Opportunities

FGCU service‑learning students will play an important role in supporting our 2nd Annual Pathways to Opportunity 5K this May. We are looking for volunteers to help with event promotion, team building, race‑day setup and breakdown, registration, runner assistance, water and refreshment stations, and cheering participants on along the course.   Part 1 is virtual (promotion and recruiting runners) prior to the race and part 2 is on-site the day of the race. The 5K takes place on 5/16/26 from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM.   Pathways to Opportunity is a nonprofit, adult day-training program serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and our mission is to create meaningful opportunities for learning, independence, community engagement, and personal growth. By volunteering at our 5K, FGCU students directly support our participants and help strengthen an inclusive community where every individual is valued and empowered.   If interested in this service-learning opportunity, please contact Katrina Shanks at katrinashanks@goodwillswfl.org.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Teamwork/Collaboration, Professionalism/Work Ethic   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being (3), Reduced Inequalities (10), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Communication, Digital Media Design, Exercise Science, Marketing, Social Work, Sociology   Related Minors: Advertising, Brand Management, Customer Experience Management, Event Planning, Marketing, Sociology

BelieveNBooks needs volunteers to read to kids on Wednesdays from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Harlem Heights Community Charter School.   If interested in this service-learning opportunity, please text 239-530-8085.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Teamwork/Collaboration   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4)   Related Majors: Child and Youth Studies, Communication, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, English   Related Minors: Education, English, World Literature

Mission: Project HELP works with dignity and compassion to ease the pain of those affected by rape, violence, crime, or loss of a loved one due to a crime.   About Project Help: We aim to provide every member of our community, regardless of age, financial status, ethnicity, and identity with access to our 24-hour Crisis and Referral Hotline, Sexual Assault Response Services, Crime Victim Advocacy, Sudden Death Response, and Crisis Intervention Services. We strive to give a voice to all those affected by violence, sudden death, and trauma.   What do we need volunteers for? We’re looking for compassionate, dedicated volunteers to support survivors of sexual assault and violent crimes during some of their most vulnerable moments. As a HELPLine volunteer, you’ll answer calls on our 24/7 crisis line, offering emotional support, crisis intervention, and referrals to community resources when needed. No experience is necessary—just empathy, a willingness to listen, and a genuine desire to help. Training is provided.   To sign up for this opportunity, please email sierrareilly@projecthelpnaples.org.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being (3), Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Communication, Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Health Sciences   Related Minors: Customer Experience Management, Psychology, Sociology

Hope PACE cares for our elderly community by providing ALL their healthcare needs, allowing them to live in the comfort and safety of their own homes instead of living in a nursing facility. They receive primary doctor appointments, socialization, medication, physical therapy, transportation, and much more at our Day Centers, which is a great opportunity to help and get experience in the healthcare industry.   Most volunteer opportunities exist in our Day Centers, where we offer socialization for seniors through volunteers who provide companionship, play individual games or host group games like Bingo and Trivia, assist the staff, etc.   In the seniors' homes, opportunities include companionship, light household chores that they can't do for themselves, preparing meals, watching TV, having conversations, etc.   There are also group service-learning opportunities for student volunteers. We provide the materials to make the games and the students host them for the seniors in our Day Centers (Hungry, Hungry Hippos, Senior Air Hockey, Human Slot Machine, Whack-a-Mole Human Version, etc.)   Opportunities occur every day between 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM in the seniors' homes or Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM in the Day Centers. Volunteer shifts are flexible, two to four hours, and work around the student's schedule.   Day Center Locations: - 2668 Winkler Avenue, Fort Myers, Florida 33901 - 1201 Wings Way, Lehigh Acres, FL 33936 - 1435 Santa Barbara Blvd, Unit 2, Cape Coral, FL 33991   For more information and to sign up for these service-learning opportunities, please visit https://hopepace.org/volunteer to register and complete the application. You may also email Richard Bock at BockR@ChaptersHealth.org for specific opportunities and questions.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Teamwork/Collaboration, Professionalism/Work Ethic, Career Management   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being (3)   Related Majors: Communication, Health Science, Integrated Studies, Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology   Related Minors: Customer Experience Management, Integrated Studies, Medical Humanities, Psychology, Sociology

Fort Myers Middle School, a proud Community Partnership School with United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades, is seeking dedicated volunteers to help strengthen our learning environment. Volunteers will work directly with teachers and students by providing in‑class support, including small‑group instruction and one‑on‑one tutoring during class time. Schedule: Monday–Friday from 9:45 AM to 4:15 PM (dates and times are flexible and can be scheduled according to your availability, no minimum or maximum time required). This opportunity is active through May 29, 2026.   Role Focus: Academic support, relationship‑building, and helping students gain confidence in their learning.   We’re looking for individuals who enjoy working with middle school students and are committed to supporting their academic success. Your time and encouragement will help create meaningful learning experiences and ensure students receive the targeted support they need to thrive.   How to sign up for this service-learning opportunity: 1. Contact Felicitas Carrillo, Director, Fort Myers Middle School, A Community Partnership School, at felicitas@unitedwaylee.org. A Lee County School District Volunteer Application will be provided with instructions for completion and submission. Schedule can be discussed during this step of the process.   2. Create a volunteer account with United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades using the following link: https://volunteer.unitedwaylee.org/need/detail/?need_id=1231564. Instructions are included in the link and a volunteer waiver can be obtained there as well.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Teamwork/Collaboration, Leadership   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10)   Related Majors: Child and Youth Studies, Communication, Education, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology   Related Minors: Education, Psychology, Sociology

Love INC Southwest Florida is looking for FGCU students who can assist them with the following tasks: Social media management Data entry Case management Neighbor intakes Program planning and development 📅 Schedule: Flexible, based on students availability📍 Location: Virtual and In-person options available27299 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 104, Bonita Springs, FL 34134   If interested in this opportunity, please email Chrissy Cosner at ccosner@loveincswfl.org.   Students who participate gain skills in Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration, and Professionalism/Work Ethic. This aligns with Sustainable Development Goals: No Poverty (1), Good Health and Well-being (3), Decent Work and Economic Growth (8), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16).

A group of students working with St. Matthew's House are developing a computer literacy course for individuals who have graduated from the recovery program and are working toward employability and long-term self-sufficiency.   They are looking for individuals to help create a paper-based computer literacy curriculum that participants can use alongside a computer to build foundational skills. The goal is to help them confidently complete essential tasks such as basic navigation, email use, and online job searches. This includes:  • Basic computer parts and navigation • Creating and writing professional emails • Resume and cover letter templates • Basic budgeting and spreadsheets • Planning a short presentation about personal goals   If you are interested in this opportunity please contact Jamie Wilson ASAP: jawilson@fgcu.edu   NACE Career Competencies: Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration, Professionalism/Work Ethic   Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): Quality Education (4), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11)   Majors that Align with this opportunity: Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Analytics, Management, Marketing, Finance, Communication, Elementary Education

Dingbat Theatre Project is a non-profit dedicated to: Creating a safe, inclusive, diverse, and accessible space for the community to gather, create, and enjoy local theatre and art. The creation and development of dynamic and boldly imaginative theatrical productions. Uplifting, supporting, and involving the incredible community of local theatre artists in Sarasota. Enriching the lives of the citizens of Sarasota County through quality performances, engagement programs, and more.   They need students to act as front-of-house volunteer staff. Students will learn useful skills, assisting with performances through check-in, ushering, and more. If you are interested in this opportunity email them at: dingbattheatreproject@gmail.com   NACE Career Competencies:  Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Leadership, Professionalism/Work Ethic   Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):  Gender Equality (5), Decent Work and Economic Growth (8), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (9), Reduced Inequalities (10)   Majors that Align with this opportunity: Theatre, Acting, Technical Theatre, Art, Communication, Public Relations, Event Planning, Hospitality, Marketing, Brand Management, Customer Experience Management

St. Matthew's House is an organization that ensures no one experiencing hunger, homelessness or addiction is alone or without a pathway for their journey from crisis to contributor. They have been blessed with an incredible wave of donations and they need YOUR help to turn generosity into real impact! 🙌 💥 What’s the mission? Help sort, process, and organize donations so they can be distributed across their programs and departments to serve those in need. Every item you touch helps change a life! 📍 Location: Empowerment HUB 4330 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, FL ⏰ When: Flexible days & times – perfect for individuals or groups! Come for an hour or two or stay the whole day! 👟 What to wear: Comfy clothes & shoes (you’ll be moving, sorting, and making magic happen!) 💙 This is a great opportunity for: • Friend groups • Teams & coworkers • Students needing service hours • Anyone who wants to give back in a meaningful, hands-on way 📞 Ready to jump in? Contact Lorna McLain 📧 lmclain@stmatthewshouse.org 📱 216-882-6961 Let’s come together, get organized, and make a BIG difference in our community! 💪✨     NACE Career Competencies:  Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Teamwork/Collaboration, Leadership   Sustainable Development Goals (SDG):  No Poverty (1), Good Health and Well-being (3), Decent Work and Economic Growth (8)   Majors that Align with this opportunity: Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Public Health, Health Science, Mangement, Supply Chain Mangement, Entreprenuership, Accounting, Marketing, Elementary Education, Special Education, Political Science, Legal Studies

Keep Lee County Beautiful needs volunteers to help remove litter and debris from beaches, roadways, and parks during their Greatest American Cleanup events.   Cleanups will be held on the following dates from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM (see sign-up link below for location information for each opportunity): - March 21, 2026 - March 26, 2026 - April 18, 2026   Sign up for this service-learning opportunity here: https://bit.ly/KLCB_Events   If you have any questions, please contact Sarah Fancher at Sarah@klcb.org.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Teamwork/Collaboration, Leadership   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), Life Below Water (14), Life on Land (15)   Related Majors: Environmental Studies, Integrated Studies, Marine Science, Public Health   Related Minors: Climate Change, Earth and Space Science, Environmental Education, Integrated Studies

FGCU Students will assist Bonita Springs Assistance Office with their pantry distribution. Pantry clients drive up to their building, and volunteers register/check-in these clients directly from their vehicles. Volunteers also help load the clients' vehicles with the week's supply of food that is given during distribution. This offers clients a discreet way to pick up the food that can help supplement a weekly income.   Monday and Wednesday: 11:30 AM to 2 PM and Thursdays: 3:30 PM to 6 PM; A student should be able to serve the entire time.  Location: 25300 Bernwood Drive, Suite 6, Bonita Springs, FL 34135   How To Sign Up: Students can sign up directly in their volunteer portal by completing the volunteer interest form: https://www.volgistics.com/appform/551029697   Contact of event Coordinator: Name: Caily Martin Email: Caily@bonitaassistance.org   NACE Career Competencies: Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): No Poverty (1), Zero Hunger (2), Reduced Inequalities (10) Majors that Align with this opportunity:  Social Work, Sociology, Public Health  

Democratic Party of Lee County is seeking volunteers to help with phone outreach to voters. Work from home or at the office from software designed to reach voters with a script to help them be ready and informed. Must be able to smile when speaking!   This opportunity is available any day between now and November 14, 2026. Flexible schedule. Once trained, volunteers can make calls between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM, for as little or as long as they would like.   Sign up for this service-learning opportunity here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScWmQA_MZ0N7fopdQ5uQrEBeVZjs3RKclS1sjfQe7QIPZZu8A/viewform   If you have any questions, please contact Karyn Edison at vicechairleedems@gmail.com.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, Digital Technology   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being (3), Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Communication, Integrated Studies, Political Science   Related Minors: Integrated Studies, Political Science

FGCU University Archives and Special Collections is seeking volunteer translators to assist with their project - Connecting Communities: Help the University Archives and Special Collections translate text for Spanish-speaking audiences!    This project can be done virtually during summer semesters only. If participating during fall or spring semesters, students may work in person (Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM).   If interested in this service-learning opportunity, please contact Megan Crawford at mcrawford@fgcu.edu.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, Digital Technology   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10)   Related Majors: Communication, English, Integrated Studies, Journalism   Related Minors: English, Integrated Studies, Journalism, Spanish, World Literature

Democratic Party of Lee County is seeking volunteers to help with data and technology. Design and run text, email, and robocall campaigns. Analyze the data to measure campaign effectiveness of voter engagement and election results. Assist leaders in finding effective ways to contact voters, develop software, test communications, and assist precinct leaders and neighborhood captains in contacting their voters.   The Data Team meets by Zoom every Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, but can work with you outside of that timeframe as well.   Sign up for this service-learning opportunity here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScWJa-CIc2BOZxb9HUkm1Si0LcSn9sxuAohEcW5fDFVyrluMg/viewform   If you have any questions, please contact Karyn Edison at vicechairleedems@gmail.com.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Teamwork/Collaboration, Digital Technology   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (9), Responsible Consumption and Production (12), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Analytics & Informatics, Computer Information Systems, Communication, Integrated Studies, Political Science   Related Minors: Computer Information Systems, Integrated Studies, Political Science

Democratic Party of Lee County is seeking volunteers to help with voter registration, election education, and candidate connection for on-campus voters. Students set their time and place to reach peers on campus about voting. Training, support, and materials are provided.   Sign up for this service-learning opportunity here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScWmQA_MZ0N7fopdQ5uQrEBeVZjs3RKclS1sjfQe7QIPZZu8A/viewform   If you have any questions, please contact Karyn Edison at vicechairleedems@gmail.com.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4), Gender Equality (5), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Communication, Integrated Studies, Political Science   Related Minors: Integrated Studies, Political Science

Democratic Party of Lee County is seeking volunteers to assist with social media (design, content creation, and coordinated posting). Students will have access to design directives and content topics.   Sign up for this service-learning opportunity here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfPP2uXOhxnJIlgaenKazS8pI5BxsvjrmBu9xZHb2tBBbxDLg/viewform   If you have any questions, please contact Karyn Edison at vicechairleedems@gmail.com.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Teamwork/Collaboration, Digital Technology, Professionalism/Work Ethic   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10), Responsible Consumption and Production (12), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Communication, Digital Media Design, English, Integrated Studies, Journalism, Marketing, Political Science   Related Minors: Creative Writing, English, Integrated Studies, Journalism, Marketing, Political Science

Democratic Party of Lee County is seeking volunteer writers to publish one Letter to the Editor submission per month advancing Democratic thinking.   Students can start anytime and complete the project before the semester / season is finished.   Sign up for this service-learning opportunity here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfPP2uXOhxnJIlgaenKazS8pI5BxsvjrmBu9xZHb2tBBbxDLg/viewform   If you have any questions, please contact Karyn Edison at vicechairleedems@gmail.com.   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Quality Education (4), Reduced Inequalities (10), Responsible Consumption and Production (12), Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions (16)   Related Majors: Communication, English, Integrated Studies, Journalism, Political Science   Related Minors: Creative Writing, English, Integrated Studies, Journalism, Political Science

The Coccoloba Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society is in need of FGCU students to assist in their Preserve. Assistance includes: Planting, watering, and weeding, to irrigation repair and canopy construction. Volunteers will develop a closer relationship to our planet while learning about native plants and the wildlife it supports. You never know what will be going on, but it is always fun and exciting.  When? Sundays and Tuesdays throughout the year from 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Other workdays may be easily added with volunteers interest. Aside from showing up at 9:00 AM the first day, students may volunteer anytime between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM on Sundays and Tuesdays.   To sign up for this opportunity, contact Marlene Rodak: (e) rodakma@msn.com   Students who complete this event gain skills in Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Oral/Written Communications, and Teamwork/Collaboration. This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education, Affordable and Clean Energy, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Life on Land

Manasota Youth Soccer League's mission is to give every child in Manatee County a chance to play and enjoy the game of soccer. We focus on practices that help kids grow, learn new skills, and think creatively.   They are looking for a group of students to help them create a new community initiative: a Local Business Cup Competition, where businesses compete in a league-style fundraising challenge to support youth soccer in the area. Businesses will earn points based on funds raised with weekly standings published and at the end of the season a champian will be crowned. Manasota is looking for FGCU students to hep build this competition from the ground up. This is a unique opportunity to hlep build something that has the potential to become a long-standing community tradition.    Why it matters: This competion is not only about funraising but about: -- Strengthening connections between local businesses and youth sports -- Expanding access to soccer for all families, regardless of financial situation -- Creating a sustainable, community-driven model that can grow year after year -- Students who participate will have a direct hand in shaping a program that could impact hundreds of children annually. Volunteer Roles (Summer – In Person Preferred) Students returning to the Palmetto / Parrish / Bradenton area this summer will focus on building and launching the competition, including: ~ Competition Development Committee ~ Help define rules, scoring systems, and structure of the league Contribute ideas to ensure fairness, engagement, and sustainability ~ Business Outreach & Recruitment ~ Visit and communicate with local businesses Present the competition concept and encourage participation ~ Marketing & Promotion ~ Design flyers, posters, and digital graphics Assist with social media campaigns and announcements ~ Community Relations ~ Maintain communication with participating businesses Support onboarding and ongoing engagement   Volunteer Roles (Summer & Fall – Remote Opportunities Available) Once the school year begins, students from any location can contribute through: ~ Competition Development Committee ~ Help define rules, scoring systems, and structure of the league Contribute ideas to ensure fairness, engagement, and sustainability ~ Website Building & Standings Management ~ Track fundraising totals and update weekly league tables Digital Content Creation --Create graphics, posts, and updates for social media --Highlight business participants and competition progress --Communications & Engagement --Assist with outreach emails and updates to participants --Help maintain excitement and visibility throughout the season What You Gain --Service learning hours toward FGCU graduation requirement --Real-world experience in marketing, business development, and event management --Portfolio-worthy work (design, communications, program development) --Leadership and collaboration experience in a community initiative --The opportunity to help build something meaningful and lasting If you are interested in this opportunity please email: president@manasotayouthsoccer.com And fill out the interest form: https://forms.office.com/r/90GsT83Zq1   NACE Career Competencies: Critical Thinking/Problem Solving, Digital Technology, Leadership   Sustainable Development Goals (SDG): Good Health and Well-being (3), Reduced Inequalities (10), Sustainable Cities and Communities (11)   Majors that Align with this opportunity: Marketing, Business, Communications, Sports Management, Community Development, Entreprenuership, Management, Communication, Digital Media Design, Hospitality Mangement, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Art, Journalism, English

Advance the Faith is in need of volunteers to join them on weekly visits to Crossroads Hope Academy (a group home for teen boys in foster care) to conduct our "Faith & Fitness" program. Advance the Faith is on a mission to empower foster youth to live the abundant life Jesus promised through life-readiness training, mentoring, and discipleship.   Every Saturday, we take a team to both campuses of Crossroads Hope Academy to conduct a "Faith & Fitness" program. In this faith-based program, we teach the youth at Crossroads key fitness and life skills, with the goal of building relationships, pointing them to Christ, & connecting them to our long-term mentorship program. Visits include basic fitness challenges, basketball games, devotionals, and the occasional ice cream! Quarterly, we take the youth on a fun outing (go carts, bowling, etc.) as a reward for their hard work and attendance in the program that we welcome volunteers to be a part of as well!   While consistency is helpful, volunteers are not required to attend every week. All volunteers must undergo a background check and training with our staff via Zoom.   Days and times: Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM (while we prefer volunteers serve the entire time, they can take either the 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM shift or the 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM shift)   If you're interested in learning more and serving, please fill out our volunteer application: https://forms.gle/xgNrrCSwi3U9s8bCA. You can also email Rebecca Clark at rebecca@advancethefaith.org for more information!   Students who complete this experience gain skills in Oral/Written Communications, Teamwork/Collaboration, Leadership   This aligns with the following Sustainable Development Goals: Good Health and Well-being (3), Reduced Inequalities (10)   Related Majors: Child and Youth Studies, Communication, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology   Related Minors: Education, Psychology, Religious Studies, Sociology