While many of our community partner organizations have suspended face-to-face operations (and many more forced to suspend operations all together for the safety and well-being of those they serve), identified community needs have not disappeared and our partners and our communities may need support now more than ever. In practice with social distancing measures advised by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Rockhurst University, we are encouraging those seeking to support to participate in virtual volunteer, do-it-yourself (DIY), or philanthropic opportunities. Social distancing is our civic responsibility, yet it is still possible to make a difference when in-person interaction is not an option.
Virtual and DIY volunteering is the act of supporting our partners and communities by addressing partner-identified needs online using an internet-connected device or from your place of quarantine. As we adapt to the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19 and the many changes this may bring to our communities and our own lives, incorporating virtual volunteering and DIY projects can be a great way to contribute while also providing balance in uncertain times. Philanthropy means providing monetary support for an organization, group, or cause to help them continue their efforts to serve despite the current circumstances.
Our community partners are working to increase the number of virtual or remote service opportunities on their sites. In addition, please see the links below for virtual volunteering opportunities.
Logging your virtual and DIY service hours can be completed on Engage Rockhurst. Simply follow the steps when entering projects not listed on Engage. Please be sure to have a accurate contact information for a person who can verify your virtual service. For DIY projects, you may enter Julia Vargas (julia.vargas@rockhurst.edu) as the contact person. Be sure to email Julia Vargas two pictures for verification: 1. of the product you created and 2. of the organization you donated the product (if you are sending the product, send a picture of the package).
