Student Service Learning, also referred to as SSL, hours are required for a student to graduate, but those who earn 260 or more SSL hours will receive a certificate for their hard work and dedication to the community.

The majority of students tend to meet the 60-hour minimum requirement and stop earning hours thereafter. Others who do reach the 260 receive the Certificate of Meritorious Service. “The certificate is like a special thing for students who work hard to give back to the community,” said SSL coordinator Carol Willing.

Currently, there are 39 students who have earned 260 hours or more by giving their time to the community. Some of their service is spent simply by making a new friend or just having fun, while still helping a cause. These students will receive the certificate on April 15.

By volunteering, students can learn new things and enjoy themselves while helping others. Senior Christina Chang, who has completed 663 SSL hours, will be receiving the certificate. “SSL does not just apply to tutoring, but is also a variety of events. You get to meet new people and you get social skills,” said Chang.

Senior Amy Ferro had earned 660 hours. Ferro and Chang have earned some of their hours together – the two worked together during the summer by giving back to the community. “I am dedicated to what I do. I like to work with children – all of my community service programs have been long term, like being part of the child development program,” said Ferro.

Organizations that cannot afford to pay people to do various activities rely on volunteers to help. Working for these non-profit organizations is a great opportunity for students to help the community and get more hours. “If the students can realize how good it makes them feel by doing the hours, they will see how beneficial in so many ways it is,” said Willing.

Do not let the stress for SSL hours come by of the end of senior year! There are many options to earn the hours, and with just a little effort, students can receive the certificate.