Whether you are in need of Student Service Learning (SSL) hours, or are simply looking for a way to get involved with the community, there are plenty of opportunities for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) students during the winter months.
Here are some of the notable opportunities for students to get involved with in December and January:
Warmth for the Winter
For students 15 years of age and older, SSL hours can be earned by working with the organization So What Else to help pack coats and warm garments of clothing.
The event runs December 18-22 from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. at the SWE Donation Center in Gaithersburg.
Parcel Assembly
Also available to those 15 years of age and older, the Parcel Assembly activity is another opportunity for students to work with So What Else to earn SSL hours.
“Help us fill parcels for delivery to local distribution sites in Maryland, D.C. and Baltimore,” the event website states. “Volunteers will work with SWE and fellow volunteers to assemble parcels of food/toys assembled from available food and toy donations.”
The event runs December 18-22 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the SWE Donation Center in Gaithersburg.
Making Blankets
For students seeking a meaningful, but flexible, opportunity, the City of Rockville is offering two SSL hours to students that make blankets for sick children at local hospitals.
Students 12 years of age and older can virtually participate in this activity by picking up a blanket kit and returning the completed blanket at a later date. Those interested are able to get the kit on January 9 at Rockville City Hall. The return date for the completed blanket is January 23.
Directions for making the blankets will be provided to students in the kit that is picked up.
“Students participating will need to report to the activity coordinator on a set day where blankets will be collected to receive an SSL form,” the event website states. “If you are requesting SSL hours, include your name and email with the blanket.”
Those looking to participate in this event must register by January 6.
Trail Clean Up
For students interested in helping the environment, the City of Rockville is offering a volunteer opportunity to earn SSL hours by cleaning up a local trail.
The activity is available to students 12 years of age and older, and will take place on January 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
“In memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. participate in the National Day of Service and help to improve your community and the environment,” the event website states. “Each participant will receive gloves and a garbage bag to use for morning.”
Students must return the trash pickers in order to receive SSL hours. An adult must be present during the event for those that are under the age of 14.
Those interested must register for the event here.
