Research Themes: Social Context of Education

Giving and Growing: Volunteer Opportunities for Children in NY State

This project focused on the social and psychological impact that volunteer work might have on school age children. Using a literature review and research component, NCCF presented a rationale for investing in service work for children of preschool through school age. The literature review component investigated what is presently known about young children's acquisition of empathy and altruism, both of which are foundations of prosocial behavior. The implications of this research in terms of effectiveness of service work and service learning for children between K and grade 6 were discussed, as well as findings from any well-evaluated service programs for young children. The research component of the project involved an overview of the opportunities for service work and service learning for children in schools for grades K-6 in New York State. NCCF conducted short, semi-structured phone interviews with key informants representing the public education system, private foundations and community based organizations to learn more about these opportunities. The project culminated in a final report detailing findings from the literature review and research, with practical and policy implications for how service work and service learning affects school children.

Funding Source: Children for Children.

Contact: Anne Martin, Dr. PH.

Current Social Context of Education Projects

Completed Social Context of Education Projects