Service program named Child & Family’s volunteer of the year

Salve Regina’s Feinstein Enriching America Program was recently named the volunteer of the year by Child & Family, the largest and most comprehensive social service provider in Newport County.

Administered by the Office of Community Service since 1998, the Feinstein program brings students closer to the community through service and giving. Through the program, all Salve Regina students complete a minimum of 10 hours of service on Aquidneck Island throughout their four years at the University.

Many students complete their service requirements at Child & Family, which has partnered with Salve Regina for more than 15 years. Some students also commit to long-term service with the organization, volunteering anywhere from 100 to 300 hours per academic year.

Volunteering with Child & Family allows students to connect service with a further exploration of academic disciplines such as business, social work, marketing and early childhood education. In addition, volunteer efforts have led to internships and employment and inspired some students to change career paths.

“Child & Family has given many Salve students the tools they need to be successful in the world of work,” said Kelly Powers, director of community service. “Whether it’s serving in the group homes, with the elders, marketing department or the children in Sandpipers, our Salve students have gained a variety of skills that they can use to enhance their skills needed for their future careers.”

In addition to volunteering at Child & Family locations throughout Newport County, students have organized several on-campus events benefiting the organization, such as the Thanksgiving food drive, the Angel Tree holiday gifting program and the Groovy Girls prom dress giveaway.