A Hub for Service Opportunities at MCLA and abroad
MCLA has robust and dynamic civic learning and community service programming. These
high impact experiences enrich academics, strengthen professional development, and
position the participant to be a leader on and off campus, as well as provide the
competencies for effective participation in civic and democratic life.
MCLA's commitment to civic engagement and community building is reflected in the over 90,000 hours that MCLA students devoted to community service, volunteerism and service learning during the last five academic years.
Alternative Spring Break (ASB) is back! Due to the unpredictable nature of COVID-19 and travel, we are looking at creating a domestic (local) Alternative Spring Break Program for this year. This would be a series of activities and events that would enable students to stay in their residence hall during break and explore the landmarks of the area as well as volunteer with local causes and organizations.
What would the program look like specifically? That is where YOU come in.
We are looking for a select 4 - 6 students who have an interest in serving on a steering committee to help plan what this ASB session will look like. Is there somewhere you've always wanted to visit but didn't have the transportation or time? Help us plan a program that your peers will enjoy!
Ideally, planning committee members would join us that week to participate as well (and would be guaranteed a spot if able to come). Email volunteercenter@mcla.edu if you eoulf like more information on how to get involved.
You can sign up for any program by emailing volunterrcenter@mcla.edu! Transportation can be provided for any program that happens off campus.
Food Pantry: The MCLA Campus Food Pantry now follows the same hours as the Campus Center where it resides, open any time For a list of suggested food pantry donation items, please go here.
H.A.L.F. Times: (Healthy Active Lifetime Fitness) times An afterschool program that plays sports and playground games with 4th through 6th grade youth. This program happens Tuesdays from 3:00 p.m.- 4:45 p.m. No sport experience necessary! A great way to get active and give back to your community!
Intro to Improv: An afterschool program that connects college students with local 4th through 6th graders to explore theatre and improve acting via fun improve and movement games. No theatre or improve experience is required to join, just the ability to be silly and have fun! This program meets Wednesdays from 3:00 pm - 4:45 pm.
MCLA Moves and Grooves – An afterschool program that connects college students with local 4th through 6th grade students around exploring dance! This program is presented in partnership with MCLA’s own Dance Company and happens on Wednesdays from 3:00 pm – 4:45 pm. You do not need to be a member of Dance Co. to participate!
Pathways: Visit with local teenagers and people considering applying to college to talk to them about the application process, and what college life is like. Share your story, answer questions, and provide a real first hand perspective of what college is really like. Meets at various times around the semester.
Write Stuff: An afterschool program that brings college students together with local 4th through 6th graders to engage with and learn about creative writing. This program aims to inspire youth to pursue writing as a passion and not just an academic requirement. This program meets Wednesdays from 3:00 pm - 4:45 pm. No prior creative writing experience is required!
![]() Director – Office of Civic and Community Engagement Spencer.moser@mcla.edu 413-662-5251 |
![]() Coordinator – Office of Civic and Community Engagement and Advisor to Student Government Christopher.hantman@mcla.edu 413-662-5384 |