Elon University
IN-2: Innovation 2

The Leaders in Collaborative Service (LINCS) program provides students with a unique leadership experience and seven non-profit community partners with significant support. The goal is to enhance the relationship between each organization and the University through collaboration, recruitment and resource development. The organizations address issues of homelessness, hunger, after-school care, housing authority programs and an equestrian and pet therapy program for persons with disabilities. One student is paired with each of the community partners through a competitive selection process with the final decision made by the Agency (community partner) Director. The selected students recruit, coordinate and guide volunteers and academic service-learners for the community partners. Students often participate in professional staff meetings, board meetings, etc. and work on special projects as directed by their community partner supervisors. The LINCS program frees up professional staff time and effort at each community partner to be redirected to the agency's greatest needs. Each student receives a stipend from the University to help cover travel costs but more importantly develops valuable personal and professional skills and a unique understanding and knowledge of the organization's challenges and needs.