International Service and Learning Mini Grant

The Haas Center is committed to helping Stanford students engage in meaningful public service and learning opportunities. International service learning opportunities contribute to students’ global education as well as cultivate a deepened understanding of world citizenship. These experiences can be the first step in helping students gain awareness of issues facing humanity, and the opportunity to seek potential solutions. Funding for this three-year pilot program has been generously provided by the Stanford Fund.

Use of Funds
The grants range from $500 to $1500 and are based on financial need as determined by the Office of Financial Aid. All grants are subject to the availability of funds. The grant funds can be used to pay for costs associated with a service-learning program offered within countries not on the US State Department travel advisory list. Programs that fit the criteria are those sponsored by US-based registered organizations that specialize in international service-learning opportunities. Examples of these organizations include Foundation for Sustainable Development (FSD), Support for International Change (SIC), Learning Enterprises, and Amizade. Programs should be at least three weeks in duration and preferably longer. Funds can be used to pay for program fees and travel expenses. Funds will be granted to a student based on their acceptance to the sponsor program, and after demonstrating that  all other financial needs are secured.

Eligibility
Any Stanford undergraduate is eligible to apply for an International Service & Learning Mini-Grant. Strong preference will be given to students who:

• will be returning to campus the following year
• have a demonstrated financial need (as determined by the Financial Aid Office)
• have not traveled abroad extensively and/or have not been involved in an international service-learning experience
• have not received previous Haas Center funding/fellowships

Students receiving grants are expected to complete their service-learning experience, and to provide post-trip reflective feedback. Participants receiving grants may be asked to share their experience with fellow students and/or be part of future programs or panels. These grants are not designed to cover the complete program and travel costs incurred by a student. Grant applicants will need to demonstrate how they plan to personally fund or fundraise for the total amount needed for their international service experience.

For more information, please contact Erica Campbell.