The Ware Institute's Mission, History and FAQ's
OUR MISSION
Based on the belief that a commitment to purposeful civic engagement is central to a liberal education, the Ware Institute for Civic Engagement serves as the College's focal point for identifying and sustaining community partnerships that address real needs.
As such, the Institute builds relationships between community partners and Franklin & Marshall College, supports student-led service initiatives, and collaborates with faculty in community-based-learning coursework.
To this end, the Institute furthers the College's commitment to developing socially responsible graduates.
OUR HISTORYFranklin & Marshall College has a long history of linking our students and faculty with the larger Lancaster community, from the days of the Office of Volunteer Services in the 1980's to the Chaplain's Office leadership of such initiatives during the 1990's. The Ware Institute for Civic Engagement, as we are known today, was formally created in 2000 and is named in honor of board member, alumnus, and local philanthropist Paul Ware '72.
In 2000, the College also received a highly competitive 3-year matching federal grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) to initiate a community-based learning program at Franklin & Marshall College by incorporating the community into all types of academic pursuits. Three years later, CNCS renewed this grant to enable further development and institutionalization of this successful initiative. We are proud of the long-standing tradition of civic engagement at Franklin & Marshall College and look forward to continuing this positive momentum into the future to the benefit of the College's students and faculty as well as citizens of the Lancaster community.
I don't know much about volunteering in Lancaster. Where should I begin?
You can begin by contacting us. Call us at (717)-291-4164, email us,or stop by the office. Tell us about your volunteer interest and we will try to match you to an opportunity that fits your schedule and makes a difference in the community.
I know what area I would like to volunteer for. Where can I go for more information?
Follow the links below to find out more about each volunteer area. Each one has a different focus and volunteer opportunities.
THE ELDERLY - Marissa Badgley '10
HUNGER & HOMLESSNESS - Mona Lotfipour '12
PUBLIC HEALTH - Kimberly Dustman '10
TUTORING & MENTORING - Christina Phillips '10
BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS MENTORING PROGRAM - Rachel Sipe, BBBS Mentoring Caseworker
How can I let the interns know that I would like to volunteer?
The best way is to fill out this Volunteer Form. It will let them know what type of opportunities you are interested in, your schedule, and your transportation options. From this information, they can quickly match you up to a volunteer program.
I don't have a car, is this a problem?
No, here are many volunteering opportunities that are just a short walk from campus. In some instances a college van can be used.
Email: Ware@fandm.edu
Phone: 717-291-4164
Fax: 717-358-4486
Mailing Address: The Ware Institute for Civic Engagement
Franklin & Marshall College PO box 3003
Lancaster, PA 17604-3003
Campus Location: Steinman College Center, Room 208
Contact the staff: Complete list here
