A student painting a learning station

Students who are engaged in the community are more likely to achieve greater academic success.

Making an Impact Through Community Engagement

VCU students are making a difference through volunteerism and community service, enhancing their academic experiences while building strong connections in Richmond. Each month, we feature a new student in our newsletter, highlighting their contributions and the positive impact they are making.

Why Volunteer?

  • Gain real-world experience and explore career paths.
  • Develop leadership and teamwork skills valued by employers.
  • Give back to the Richmond community and make meaningful connections.
  • Enhance your resume through hands-on service.

If you are a student or know someone who deserves to be in the spotlight, contact us at hamiltonae@vcu.edu to share their story!

Ways to Get Involved

VCU provides a variety of ways for students to engage in service:

  • VCU Student Organizations – Many clubs and organizations focus on service projects.
  • Service-Learning Courses – Earn academic credit while making a community impact.
  • Days of Service - Join us for university-led days of service
  • Alternative Breaks – Participate in service trips during academic breaks.

In the Community, Richmond offers many opportunities for students to serve in various of our priority partner communities. Most of these opportunities are advertised through Ramz Connect.

Service opportunities

VCU Transform

VCU Transform supports students to become transformative leaders through engagement in experiential learning opportunities.

HandsOn Greater Richmond 

HandsOn Greater Richmond provides resources to support meaningful volunteer engagement within the greater Richmond region.

Service Learning

Discover how students can engage with the community through course-based service opportunities.

Online and National Platforms

Looking for flexible or virtual options? Explore:

Community Engagement Council

The Student Engagement Council at VCU’s Division of Community Engagement provides students with leadership opportunities to support and promote community engagement initiatives. Members collaborate on projects, share ideas, and help connect VCU students with meaningful service opportunities. The council empowers students to make a lasting impact in Richmond through advocacy, outreach, and partnerships.

Learn about our current council members

a student giving a presentation

Succeed in service