A lack of support for students of color in post grad-service programs
A lack of support for students of color in post grad-service programs
What happens when your expectations about “post-grad” service fall short? Volunteer alumni often share their life-changing and positive experiences, but what but what happens when these programs push aside concerns about racism and safety?
LMU has always encouraged volunteering — the University consistently expresses pride that students contribute over 200,000 service hours per year. The Service Organization Community (SOC) at LMU acted as a pipeline for me to consider a year volunteering. Post-grad service often consists of working full-time at schools or other nonprofit placements while receiving a modest living stipend and, sometimes, housing. Faith-based programs, like the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC), usually include community and spirituality components. Service years are also seen as an alternative to entering the job market or applying to grad school.