Grinnell Summer of Service

2025 Program Overview 

Location: Grinnell, Iowa  
Program Type: Volunteer / Community-Engaged Civic & Professional Learning  
Duration: May 27 – August 1, 2025 
Number of Positions:  3

Program Description

The Grinnell Summer of Service is a 10-week, cohort-based, immersive civic and professional learning program that empowers students to engage deeply with local communities, explore root causes of social issues, and grow as reflective, equity-minded changemakers. Centered in Grinnell, this program includes hands-on service with community organizations, structured reflection, systems research, and the option to begin a Map the System project. 

Key Benefits 

  • Service Leadership Work-Study Position 
  • Professional & Civic Exploration & Development:
  • Summer Housing Eligibility
  • Mentorship 
  • Living & Learning Community  

Core Focus Areas (Summer 2025) 

  • Women’s Rights
  • Sustainable Agriculture 
  • Early Childhood Development 
  • Data Access and Environmental Resiliency  

Program Components 

1. Community Engagement (approx. 20 hrs/week) 

  • Volunteer with local organizations addressing a key civic issue 
  • Learn about the local context of an issue you care about

2. Systems Research & Civic Inquiry (approx. 3 hrs/week) 

  • Research an issue you are encountering in your volunteer position
  • Use  systems mapping tools to tell the story of the issue you are encountering and researching

3. Reflection, Professional Development & Civic Identity (approx. 7 hrs/week) 

  • Participate in weekly roundtables and reflection circles 
  • Maintain a reflective journal, blog, or creative piece 
  • Conduct informational interviews to build your civic/professional network 
  • Participate in professional development workshops 
  • Present findings to peers, mentors, and partners