Students complete requirements across all three pillars during the academic year. All requirements must be completed between August 6, 2026 and May 6, 2027.
ENGAGE: Civic Engagement Activities
Students complete one of two engagement tracks:
25-Hour Track
A flexible option for students who want to make a meaningful commitment to civic engagement.
45-Hour Track
A deeper commitment option that also satisfies the Local and Global Perspective requirement within CWRU's Unified General Education Requirements.
Forms of Civic Engagement
CCEL recognizes multiple pathways for creating social change. Scholars may complete hours through one category or a combination of categories
Addressing immediate community needs through volunteering and service. Examples include:
- Volunteering with nonprofits, schools, and public agencies
- Service projects coordinated by CCEL. Check out CCEL's Calendar of Events.
- Service-learning and clinical placements
- Community-focused work through student organizations
Raising awareness and supporting community causes through education and communication. Examples include:
- Civic issue awareness campaigns
- Advocacy events and trainings
- Op-eds and letters to the editor
- Communication with elected officials
Supporting organizations and causes through fundraising and charitable efforts. Examples include:
- Fundraising events
- Donation drives
- Soliciting contributions
- Donating and distributing resources
Participating in democratic processes in nonpartisan ways. Examples include:
- Serving as a poll worker.
- Voter registration efforts
- Political education events
- Community-facing public service activities
*Registering yourself to vote and voting is not an eligible to count as a civic engagement activity for hours. However, CCEL is happy to support students with election and voter resources to help you engage in this important way.
*While holding an elected position in a CWRU student organization is a valuable leadership opportunity, “political engagement” refers to off-campus, community positions, and elections.
Strengthening relationships and collective action within communities. Examples include:
- Community dialogues
- Block clubs and civic associations
- Advisory boards
- CWRUinCLE community experiences. Check out CCEL's Calendar of Events.
LEARN: Civic Engagement Education
Scholars complete two approved Education Programs before the end of the academic year. These programs connect to CCEL's Best Practices of Responsible Civic Engagement and help students better understand communities, social issues, and strategies for creating positive change. A list of approved programs and events will be provided each semester.
REFLECT: Making Meaning of Your Experience
Reflection is a critical part of civic learning. Scholars are encouraged to consider:
- What did I learn about the community and issue?
- What assumptions were challenged?
- How did this experience influence my understanding of civic responsibility?
- What skills or perspectives did I develop?
- How might I continue contributing to positive change?
Final Reflection Requirement
All Scholars complete a final reflection at the conclusion of their participation in the program. Reflection prompts and submission instructions will be provided after completion of engagement and learning requirements.