The 1998-99 Richland College Catalog states that the purpose is to equip students for successful living and responsible citizenship in a rapidly changing local, national and world community. In fulfilling our purpose, we further cultural, economic and workforce development in the communities we serve. In all our effort, Richland strives to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of those the college serves. Service-Learning leads to the fulfillment of these goals by effectively and efficiently taking advantage of the reciprocity that exists in the learning partnership between the community and the college. Benefits to Students Service-Learning enriches student learning of course material by moving them from the margin of the classroom experience to the center.
Students come to see the relevance and importance of academic work in their real life experience.
It broadens perspectives and enhances critical thinking skills. It improves interpersonal and human relations skills which are increasingly viewed as the most important skills in achieving success in professional and personal spheres. It provides guidance and experience for future career choice. Benefits to the Community Service-Learning initiatives provide the community with substantial human resources to meet its educational, human, safety, and environmental needs. The talent, energy, and enthusiasm of our college students are applied to meet these ever increasing needs.