Volunteer Service

Many of our students choose to volunteer during and after graduation for a variety of reasons. Dedicating time to organizations can help develop problem solving skills, strengthen ties within the community, improve quality of life, and reinforce connections to other individuals.

Peace Corps

The Peace Corps is an international service which sends volunteers around the world to promote world peace and sustainable lifestyles. The organizations offers various programs with various durations, but there are two which are most attractive to students. There is a University Program which offers students an opportunity to gain Peace Corps experience while still pursuing educational goals. There’s also a 2-year program aimed at recent graduates who want to improve the lives of communities while gaining on-the-job skills that are attractive to today’s employers.

AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps offers a plethora of programs for a variety of interests. Members of AmeriCorps can search for programs based on experience, interest, and location to find a fit in a community that suits their needs. Depending on a candidate’s situation, some assistance may be available such as: student loan deferment, training, living allowance, and health benefits. There are plenty of opportunities for graduates, as well as a limited number of summer and part-time opportunities for current students.

Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa

Conservation Corps Minnesota and Iowa engages youth and young adults in programs aimed at improving outdoor recreation, restoring habitats, protecting water, and responding to local community needs. Technical and career-building skills help you grow as environmental stewards and leaders while giving back to your community.

The Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy is an organization dedicated to protecting important land and water for nature and people. The organization hosts many events that have volunteering options available, as well as promotes many attainable initiatives and opportunities to be more connected with nature. There are various internships available throughout the year as well, so stay updated on their website to know when they are available.

Minnesota DNR

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has many openings throughout Minnesota for temporary volunteering positions. These positions are unpaid and generally don’t require a heavy commitment. Some examples of positions include wildlife monitoring, event preparation, naturalist training, and many more! These opportunities are great for current students who want to put in volunteer hours during the school year.

Benedictine Volunteer Corps

Graduates of Saint John’s University can complete a year of service with Saint John’s Abbey’s Benedictine Volunteer Corps. Spend a year at a monastery of the worldwide Benedictine confederation and support the work, prayer, and life of Benedictine monasteries and communities around the world.