The Lincoln Memorial University Mission Statement describes the importance of service to the development of the whole person and states specifically that "a major cornerstone of a meaningful existence is service to humanity; service to the community where one lives; and service in a global and diverse society with an emphasis on the underserved." Community is also one of the core values of LMU-CVM; thus, it is strongly encouraged for all members of the LMU-CVM to participate in community service.
To be eligible for scholarships administered through LMU and LMU-CVM Scholarship and Awards Committee, students must complete 10 hours of approved service per scholarship cycle (usually February 1 to January 31). Hours are prorated for first year students. Hours are tracked through the LMU-CVM Office of Student Affairs and are due at the time of the scholarship application closing. Students who complete more than 30 documented hours will receive special recognition during their 3rd year awards ceremony.
While Lincoln Memorial University encourages and values all types of service and volunteerism, only certain types of service activities can be logged through the LMU-CVM Community Service Log (https:/ /forms.office.com/r/gRAVpdMa5S).
The most important factor in determining an activity's qualification is whether it serves an unmet need in the community, preferably one identified by a community partner organization. The goal of these guidelines is not to exclude any meaningful or well-intentioned service but rather to provide a basic framework for understanding community service.
The following types of activities CANNOT be logged for volunteer hours:
- Donations of any type (unless given prior permission or an office/organization sponsored donation drive) cannot be logged, including but not limited to money, supplies, clothing, food, blood, etc.
- Indirect Philanthropy and Fundraising Activities
- Attending meetings related to planning or organizing fundraising events
- Attending a fundraising activity, but not engaging in direct service
- Running or walking in a SK, walk, or race for charity
- Projects completed with any for-profit organization/business, even if the work was unpaid. Any substantial activities of this kind should be pursued as an internship.
- Internships, clinicals, practicums, or field experience work in hospitals, clinics, or similar organizations. This includes time spent job shadowing and observing.
- Self-directed "projects" without the oversight of supporting staff, faculty, or community organization, such as trash pickup or recycling, tutoring for free, helping an elderly neighbor with yard work, baby sitting/pet-sitting for free for private individuals, etc.
- Activities completed for the benefit of a student organization or LMU athletic team or department (i.e., tabling, being a student organization officer, Peer Mentor, LMU sports, Nutrition/Fuel Station, Sports Ambassadors, working a concession stand at an LMU event, etc.).
- Participation in self-improvement workshops, clinics, conferences, or conventions.
- Helping with campus programs unless those activities directly serve a population beyond the LMU campus (i.e., nonprofit organizations, youth and team programs, etc.).
- Participating in a research project either as a participant (i.e., focus group) or a researcher (i.e., lab assistant).
Organizations that may have opportunities for service can be found here (https://www.lmunet.edu/leadership and-outreach/student-services-initiative), or by connecting with OSAA and the Student Services Canvas Organization.