Students make pitching in a tradition

Rochester students are getting attention for making community service a top priority.

Rochester is one of the top three schools in the nation for student involvement in volunteer activities, according to a recent survey by Who Cares magazine, which covers community service and social action issues. A full 70 percent of Rochester students are involved in service and 21 percent in activist groups; 12 percent of graduating students choose careers in public service.

Individuals and student groups who would like to get involved with community service can find help at the Community Service Network office.

CSN acts as a clearinghouse of volunteer opportunities available to the University community, from continuous programs and one-time events to group and individual projects. The network currently manages the following ongoing community service programs: Adopt-a-Grandparent, alternative breaks, Compeer, Habitat for Humanity, Little Buddies, KATS, Circle K, and tutoring projects.

This year is the 10th anniversary of Wilson Day, the University's community service project that launches the new school year. Last year, some 800 students, faculty, staff, and alumni worked at 50 sites in the Rochester area, painting, picnicking with nursing home residents, cleaning toys, clearing abandoned lots--and learning about the community in the process. CSN also coordinates several Mini-Wilson Days throughout the year.

For more information, stop by the CSN office, Morey 310 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, call (716) 275-5957, or e-mail csnboard@cc.rochester.edu.