Serve, Lead, and Grow: Community Service at Penn State Abington 

At Penn State Abington, community service is more than volunteer work—it’s a pathway to leadership, learning, and meaningful change. Whether you're passionate about education, hunger relief, environmental action, or civic engagement, there are countless ways to make an impact locally and beyond. Explore opportunities to serve regularly, join one-time events, or connect your academic experience to real-world needs. 

students pose for group photo at Cradles to Crayons

Cradles to Crayons community service project

Credit: Penn State

Why Get Involved

  • Community service is a powerful tool for learning, growth, and connection. Whether through a one-day event or a long-term project, student-led service has a meaningful impact on both communities and the students who serve them.

Personal Impact

  • Builds confidence, empathy, and resilience

  • Fosters a deeper connection to local and global issues

  • Encourages self-reflection and personal responsibility

Academic Impact

  • Makes coursework more relevant through real-world application

  • Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving

  • Enhances learning through hands-on experiences

Professional Impact

  • Strengthens leadership, communication, and teamwork skills

  • Demonstrates initiative and civic responsibility to future employers

  • Helps shape career paths and purpose-driven goals

Community Impact

  • Supports local organizations and underserved populations

  • Promotes collaboration and mutual respect

  • Inspires sustainable, youth-driven change

Student Stories and Impact

 “Meaningful change is happening, and it is possible… We just have to genuinely work towards it.” - Laila Altaf

Laila Altaf, Class of 2028-Substance Use Harm Reduction in Philadelphia

Laila’s project focused on addressing the critical issue of substance use and harm reduction in Philadelphia, blending education, advocacy, and community partnerships. She partnered with Savage Sisters Recovery and Penn State Abington’s Collegiate Recovery Program to provide substance use education and support for those affected by addiction. 

 “There’s this sweet lady who runs a vegan restaurant and supports her community by feeding homeless people every week. It was a pleasure to help her with marketing to grow her business. Helping her reminded me that entrepreneurship can also be an act of love."- Erica Avila 
 
Erica Avila Class of 2027-Empowering Latino Entrepreneurs and Uplifting Community

Erica’s project supported Latino-owned businesses by providing marketing help and fostering connections.
 

Ongoing Opportunities

We are proud to partner with a wide range of local nonprofit organizations that share our commitment to community engagement, equity, and impact. These partnerships provide meaningful opportunities for students to connect with real-world issues, contribute to ongoing initiatives, and support the vital work happening in our region every day. Together, we work to build stronger, more informed, and more compassionate communities. 

If you are a community partner seeking volunteers or a student looking to get involved with service opportunities, please email [email protected]. We’d love to help you get connected! 

Campus-Based Initiatives

  • Fresh for All
  • Campus Gardens
    • The campus gardens provide the Penn State Abington community with free fresh herbs and vegetables and the opportunity to learn how to grow food. Our gardens, located at the Springhouse and the Lions Gate student apartments, can only flourish with your support.

Resources and Support