Service Activities

Park scholars perform a wide range of service activities, from facilitating a literary circle at an assisted living facility to tutoring at area schools, volunteering at Ithaca College’s Family Carnival, and participating in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. Many even fan out across the country to provide service during Alternative Spring Break.

In addition to committing to specific projects, Park scholars share their communications talents across a variety of partnerships with local organizations. Upper-level Park scholars assume key leadership roles in these collaborations.

Ithaca City School District: Park scholars have collaborated with the Ithaca City School District on its external communications needs. Recently, one group of scholars assisted in the creation of a district-wide newsletter, while another group worked on an informational video that highlights the school district’s vision of “All Students Achieving their Dreams.”

Media Literacy: Park scholars have developed a media literacy curriculum that they teach at Beverly J. Martin Elementary School and South Hill Elementary School in Ithaca.

Megaphone Media Productions: Through this Park scholar-founded volunteer organization, scholars provide media services to local organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters; the Durland Alternatives Library; the Ithaca College Gerontology Institute; Loaves and Fishes; the United Way; and the Women’s Opportunity Center.

The Student Historian Initiative: Park scholars have mentored area high school students in journalistic research and writing through the Student Historian Initiative of The History Center in Tompkin's County.