Service learning is one of three component parts which must be completed in order for students to earn the Democracy Institute badge. Service learning has been shown to improve student success in college and improve graduation rates. It teaches valuable skills which can be used in students' academic pursuits, as well as in life, and it has been shown to help level the playing field for first generation students attending college.
Students will complete 25+ hours of service learning with nonprofit groups during the course of their studies at West Valley College. Below is a list of organizations. Students may also find their own service learning organization, and with prior approval from the Democracy Institute, complete all or some of the hours at that approved organization.