Philanthropy vs. Community Service

Community Service vs. Philanthropy 

Community Service and Philanthropy share many characteristics in common, first and foremost among them being to serve a common good. Nonetheless, they are considered distinctive concepts and as such are tracked differently by the Office of Student Involvement.

Community Service may be defined as unpaid and otherwise uncompensated deeds completed with the intent and effect of bettering a given public community.

Philanthropy may be defined as a donation made to further a specific philanthropic cause that promotes the welfare of others. 

The simplest way to explain the difference between community service and philanthropy is that community service is a donation of one's time and talents, while philanthropy is a donation of money, products, resources, or other materials goods.

For more information on the definitions and guidelines of community service, click this link to visit the Service and Engagement Website.

Service Opportunities:

GET Engaged! Make a Difference! To find service events, you will need to access the BearcatLink Events page. Instructions on how to do so are below:

• Once you are on the Events page, you can find service events one of two ways:
  • Click the Earn option in the search bar and select the "Service Hours" option
  • Click the Category option in the search bar and select the "Service/Volunteer" option