It may seem like graduation is far away, but it is already time for graduates to start looking into what they are going to do after they leave the safety of Saint Louis University and enter the real world.

Students interested in continuing community service after college are encouraged to stop by Campus Ministry where they will help in deciding which program or organization is best for them.

There are various service programs in which recent graduates can participate. Campus Ministry promotes the programs that are Jesuit-based.

Graduates can decide to continue on with the Jesuit mission of men and women for others and partake in a number of service opportunities after graduation.

The Jesuit Volunteer Corps has four guidelines that are woven into the program throughout the year. The JVC is based on the values of spirituality, social justice, community and simplicity. The corps requires either a one-year commitment within the United States or two years abroad, beginning in August. Students serving in the U.S. may reapply for a second year.

The volunteers partake in a series of retreats that help foster spirituality. JVC members live in a community together working for social change through a service organization. The volunteers live on a budget of $80 per month, with room, board, transportation costs and health insurance provided.

According to Harry O’Rourke, campus minister, the impact of participating in a program like the JVC is that it really helps develop personal values. “It connects you with a group of people with similar mind-sets broadening your horizons,” he said.

Boys Hope, Girls Hope is a non-profit private mentoring program. The program helps children who are hurt or at risk–yet academically capable to realize their potential–by providing those children with a family-like home and an education. The program requires a one-year commitment of living at the home with the children. Volunteers mentor and tutor the residents helping them to explore their values and life choices.

AmeriCorps is another volunteer opportunity available. AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs meeting critical needs in education, public safety, health and the environment. AmeriCorps members serve through nonprofit groups, public agencies and faith-based organizations. There are two main programs offered by AmeriCorps: AmeriCorps VISTA and AmeriCorps NCCC.

AmeriCorps VISTA members help to bring individuals and communities out of poverty by fighting illiteracy, improving health services, creating businesses and increasing housing opportunities.

AmeriCorps NCCC is a 10-month, full-time residential program for men and women between the ages of 18 and 24. The program combines civilian service with aspects of military service, including leadership and team building. Members serve in teams of 10 to 15. Priority is given to projects in public safety, public health and disaster relief.

Teams are based at one of five campuses across the country but are sent to work on short-term projects in neighboring states.

These are just a few of the many opportunities available to graduates. A great resource to find out more about domestic and international volunteer opportunities is the Pallotti Center, which is a network of Catholic volunteer programs.

“There is a sense of community service that is fostered in any student that comes to SLU; every student is going to come across an opportunity for service as part of their life here,” O’Rourke said. “Doing service after graduation is a good way to follow through on their service work done during college.”