Why the Service Learning Project?
Through the Service Learning Project (SLP), New York City children and teens become informed, active citizens by tackling real-world social problems of their choice. We partner with schools and community organizations to give young people the tools they need to make positive change in their schools and neighborhoods.
We believe that children and teens have powerful solutions to the complex problems facing our country, and we have seen firsthand the academic, social, and personal benefits of service learning to young people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Our students apply skills they develop in the classroom to improving the community, while developing their problem-solving, critical thinking, and leadership skills. They work as a team and gain respect for their peers. They develop as individuals with broadened perspective, empathy and ability to take initiative. They also learn to view themselves as valuable community members with important ideas and skills to share.
Service learning is a research-based, hands-on learning initiative that can help young people improve core curriculum skills in ELA, math, and science. Our partner schools often consider SLP part of their social studies curriculum as it helps them meet the expectation that students will engage in civic participation.