The Institute coordinates scores of direct service programs, provides training and technical assistance for K-12/college faculty and nonprofit staff in service-learning, develops service-learning curricular materials, works closely with Slippery Rock University faculty to create service-learning classes, and coordinates community developments initiatives in Western Pennsylvania.

About AmeriCorps

Since 1993, 300,000 Americans have participated in one of the 900 locally-managed AmeriCorps programs. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, programs are monitored by PennSERVE, the Governor's Office on Citizen Service, and the Corporation for National and Community Service. For more info about AmeriCorps go to www.cns.gov

About Connector Corps

The Connector Corps is a cadre of student and community leaders who believe that if they are not part of the solution, then they are indeed part of the problem. Since 1997, 485 Connector Corps members have been offered over $500,000 in scholarship opportunities for making a one-year commitment to make a difference. Initially open to only SRU students, we now actively recruit non-student adults interested in making a difference in their very own community, gaining professional skills, and experience personal growth while earning a living allowance and money for additional education. The Connector Corps is comprised of four teams each coordinated by an SRU graduate assistant team leader. Applicants identify areas of interest that generally complements their professional interests. Though they lead a project on their own team or site, most members have the chance to do service with other teams as well as their own. Each month, members receive professional development training that builds skills so they can recruit volunteers, organize, implement and evaluate direct service initiatives. All members are also involved in several All corps projects that address a Corps-identified area of service interest.

Twenty-four quarter-time positions are available to full and part-time SRU students. An additional 3 full time and 24 half time positions are available to non-SRU students. Half and full time members will be placed with community agencies located primarily in New Castle, Slippery Rock and across Butler County.

I-Care House

The I CARE House and Community Development Corporation leverages financial, physical, and social capital for community-identified social changes that enhance the quality of life of local residents, engage students and faculty in community based learning, and encourage a civil society.

Program offerings are identified by the I CARE House Policy Council with the common focus on housing, entrepreneurship, youth and leadership, education enrichment and school success, senior and family nutrition and wellness, and crime prevention.

Anyone is eligible and welcome to participate in I CARE House programs provided they follow proper registration procedures.

It is expected, due to the I CARE House location that most program participants will be children, seniors and other adults who reside in the Courtside neighborhood, but all persons are welcome.

Other I CARE House participants include Slippery Rock University and New Castle High School student volunteers. Volunteers are required to complete a training program and obtain appropriate clearances.

Questions?  Comments?  E-mail us at theinstitute@sru.edu

The Institute for Community, Service-Learning, and Nonprofit Leadership
Slippery Rock University
Robert A. Lowry Center
Slippery Rock, PA 16057
Phone: (724) 738 - CARE
Fax: (724) 738 - 2314
theinstitute@sru.edu
Director: Alice Kaiser-Drobney