Annual Community Service-Learning Fair will be Jan. 26

More than 30 community agencies are expected to participate in Western Carolina University’s fifth annual Community Service-Learning Fair on Tuesday, Jan. 26.

Highlights of the fair will be displays by community agencies and campus organizations, and a seminar focusing on the principles and practice of service learning.

The displays, featuring programs and services offered by local agencies and campus groups, will run from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the A.K. Hinds University Center Grandroom. The hourlong seminar will follow at 2 p.m. in Club Illusions.

A diverse group of community agencies will participate in the event. The agencies will have displays focusing on such areas as children and youth, environmental issues, food and hunger, health and wellness, disability issues and elder care.

The event, which is free and open to the public, will provide an opportunity for community agency representatives to discuss projects and exchange ideas with university faculty, staff and students. Community agencies will also learn more about the goals of service learning and civic engagement in relation to the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan.

“Local organizations will be able to promote their projects and recruit volunteers,” said Jennifer Cooper, assistant director of the Center for Service Learning, who is coordinating the event. “A major goal is to strengthen the connection between the university and the community.”

For more information, contact Cooper at jacooper@wcu.edu or 828-227-2595.