Academic bridge to the community: The ABCs of a service-learning model

Data support that this experience had a positive impact on students' skill and knowledge, personal growth, and professional attitudes. This service-learning opportunity has developed into a successful integrated component of the academic curriculum. Departments within allied health schools should be encouraged to develop service-learning opportunities with community agencies that may have varied needs and program opportunities within their structure. Our department chose an opportunity to develop a bridge with a community charitable organization that had a significant need during a one-week summer camp program. The key ingredients for any successful bridging program are an agency that has a need for assistance, faculties that embrace the concept and are willing to develop a supportive curriculum, and a university that values community service. These elements can come together with mutual effort and reward, thus resulting in better-trained professionals with links to the community they serve.