Community service, as many of us know, has been a part of educational systems for years. But what takes Service Learning to the next level is that it combines serving the community with the rich academic frontloading, assessment, and reflection typically seen in project-based learning.

According to Vanderbilt University, service learning is defined as: "A form of experiential education where learning occurs through a cycle of action and reflection as students seek to achieve real objectives for the community and deeper understanding and skills for themselves."

Among the Service Learning opportunities afforded to students at DePaul Catholic are:

• Midnight Run - going to New York City at midnight to feed and clothe the homeless.
• Sorting food at the food pantry - our many hands can do a week's work in a few hours.
• The Angel Project - sorting and unpacking Christmas gift donations for the Straight and Narrow community.

In addition to Service Learning, Interact, under the direction of Mrs. Dacles, in coordination with the Theology classes, has numerous projects throughout the year, among which are:

• School Supplies drive - collecting school supplies for the Straight and Narrow community.
• Food Drives - not only for Thanksgiving but through the year to help the hungry.
• Halloween Costumes and Prom Dresses Collections.
• Socks and Underwear Drives.

If you would like to help in any way, contact either Mrs. Bullman from Theology or Mrs. Dacles from Interact at bullmanp@dpchs.org or daclesb@dpchs.org.