Service Learning at College of DuPage

Catholic Charities

Organization Address:
26 W. St. Charles Rd.
Lombard, IL 60148

Name and Position of Contact Person:
Larry Cada, Outreach Support Specialist
Norma Navalany, Housing Project Manager

Phone Number:
Larry: (630) 495-8008 ext. 30
Norma: (630) 941-8681 or (815) 325-5392

E-mail Address:
lcada@cc-doj.org

nnavalany@cc-doj.org

Website Address:
www.cc-doj.org

Days/Hours Available for Service Learners:
Flexible, some programs have weekend hours.

Description of Organization:
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet, translates God's reconciling love into professional human services, advocates for a just and compassionate society and brings together members of the community, church, business, health care and government to develop effective responses to human needs. They commit to define these needs, seek solutions, and call forth other resources so that those they serve are empowered to achieve for themselves satisfying and productive lives. Catholic Charities isn't just a charity for Catholics, they serve everyone.

Description of Service Learner Role:
1) Out Of Poverty Class Service Learning Assistant – This program, using a participatory discussion format, seeks to effect real life changes by examining past patterns of behavior, evaluating available resources, learning skills to overcome obstacles, setting new goals, and developing and implementing plans for change. Genograms, Eco-Maps, Relaxation Breathing, Clustering, Goal Setting, Planning, Assertion Methods, Active Listening, Mental Rehearsal, and Positive Self Talk are some of the techniques practiced. The Service Learning Opportunity is to assist in the observation and evaluation of participation level, to help prepare the facility for class, to prepare (make copies) of class materials, and to assist in planning & implementing the graduation ceremony. Contact Larry Cada.

2) Assist the Outreach Support Specialist in preparing and delivering informational presentations of Catholic Charities Programs to various Service Agencies and organizations. Contact Larry Cada.

3) Office Management Service Learner, reporting to the Assistant Director of Community Services, Kate Toennis.The Service Learner will assist in various office tasks including management of the Transitional Housing Wait List phone line, preparation of mentor training materials, and other miscellaneous office tasks. Contact Larry Cada.

4) Assist in the development and fundraising department at Catholic Charities.  If you are interested in learning about fundraising at a not for profit organization, then you can assist the Senior Development Officer or Director at Catholic Charities with special events, mailings, phone calls and working with donors. Contact Larry Cada.

5)Permanent Supportive Housing Service Learner - The permanent Supportive Housing Program enables families in which the head of household has a disability to become as independent as possible and the service learner will  assist the Housing Project Manager conduct inspections of housing units, filing, organizing, writing letters, inputting information, picking up and delivering donations, and helping drive clients to appointments or grocery shopping. The service learners activities are an integral part of the family's success. Special requirements include:  Being trustworthy, Having a current drivers license with no current traffic violations, auto insurance, drug screening, having an attitude of service, computer literate of Microsoft Word, and the ability to speak fluent English. A foreign language, including Arabic, is a huge plus. Contact Norma Navalany.

6) ESL Tutor. Contact Larry Cada.

Organization Requirements:
Good organization, communication and observation skills. Knowledge and sensitivity to cultural differences. Confidentiality.

Volunteer applications and interviews are required.

Number of Placements Available:
7

 

 

Close this window