Community Engagement at Berry College
At Berry College, Community Engagement is central to who we are. Rooted in our motto—“Not to be ministered unto, but to minister,” or simply, not to be served but to serve—we prepare students to lead with integrity and purpose through meaningful connections and real-world impact. Guided by our Good Neighbor Framework, Berry empowers students to apply their skills, values, and passions to serve both local and global communities.
Each year, Berry students dedicate over 25,000 hours of service to addressing community needs. Whether through episodic service, long-term projects, or community-engaged coursework, these efforts make a lasting difference while preparing students for lives of leadership and service.
Our Framework: Nine Service Focus Areas
Berry College’s community engagement strategy is organized around nine key areas, ensuring that efforts are meaningful, focused, and responsive to community needs:
- Animal Care and Protection
- Youth Development and Education
- Community and Cultural Enrichment
- Support for Different Abilities and Accessibility
- Food Assistance and Nutrition
- Environmental Conversation and Sustainability
- Health and Medical Support
- Advocacy and Social Impact
- Housing and Shelter Support
Signature Programs
- Berry Impact: Connects students to one-time or short-term service opportunities, addressing immediate needs while exploring their passions in any of the nine focus areas.
- Community-Engaged Courses: Over 30 courses integrate academic learning and community service, allowing students to tackle real-world challenges while deepening their understanding of societal issues.
- LifeWorks Program: Links students with community-engaged roles, such as nonprofit support, marketing, or data analysis, aligning professional development with Berry’s Good Neighbor values.
- Year of Service: A living-learning community where students dedicate an academic year to service in themed houses, fostering sustained community impact, civic leadership, and personal growth
- Bonner Scholars Program: A four-year program providing scholarships to students dedicated to service. Bonner Scholars commit to weekly service with local organizations, gaining leadership experience and completing capstone projects.
Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement
Berry College is recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for Community Engagement, reflecting our dedication to fostering reciprocal, sustainable partnerships that address societal challenges while enriching student learning.
Why It Matters
At Berry, community engagement is more than a program—it’s a way of life. Students graduate with the skills and values needed to make meaningful contributions to their communities, prepared to lead with empathy, resilience, and a commitment to service.
Get Involved
Whether through service opportunities, community-engaged jobs, or immersive programs, students at Berry College have countless ways to make a difference. Learn how you can join us in living out the Good Neighbor Culture and shaping a better future for all.