Endicott College Honored for Volunteer Efforts
In an effort led by Director of Community Services Lauri Rawls, Endicott College has been certified as a Service Enterprise by the Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement and international nonprofit Points of Light.
The Service Enterprise Program helps organizations and communities better engage volunteers. Service Enterprises like Endicott are among the top 11% of nonprofits in the country in volunteer engagement and organizational performance. Endicott’s certification is effective now through 2026.
“Being a Service Enterprise means dedicating resources, time, and expertise to ensure that volunteer engagement is well-planned, well-executed, and aligned with our goals, values, and the needs of the community. This commitment can lead to a brighter future for our students’ community service efforts, foster stronger communities, and provide a better sense of shared responsibility for positive change,” said Rawls. “We also believe it will open doors to additional partnerships and funding opportunities which we are always hopeful for.”
Service Enterprise certification honors and represents a commitment to maximizing the positive impact of community service efforts, Rawls explained. During the 2022-23 academic year, 50% of Endicott students (1,490 students) engaged in service opportunities culminating in more than 15,000 hours of community service performed. (The national average for student community service is 30.2%.)
In Rawls’ role with the Office of Community Service, she serves as the point person for volunteer opportunities for the Endicott community, maintaining strong connections with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Habitat for Humanity as well as local nonprofits like Northeast Arc and Beverly Bootstraps. She also serves as an advisor for the Rotaract Service Club and oversees annual events like the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families’ Wonderfund and the on-campus Winter Wishes pop-up gift store.
“It’s important to understand that this achievement for the College is not only a reflection of Lauri's commitment to our local community but also her commitment to the education and growth of our students,” said Marlin Nabors, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students. “She understands better than anyone that when Endicott students volunteer, they take action on their principles while representing the broad values of the College. They work hand in hand.”
Learn more about community service opportunities at Endicott.