Ware Institute for Civic Engagement
A Deeper Sense of Meaning and Purpose
We are proud of our unbreakable ties with the Lancaster community and offer our students a variety of opportunities to engage with this vibrant city. The Ware Institute partners with 100+ community benefit organizations, government agencies, and schools to create meaningful off-campus opportunities for students, staff, and faculty.
At F&M’s Ware Institute for Civic Engagement, we connect you with these local organizations and inspiring community leaders so you can engage in meaningful and purposeful activities. By working directly with local leaders to address community challenges, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of societal issues and make a positive impact on Lancaster while also gaining important skills.
Public Service Summer Institute (PSSI)
Transforming Gardens into Classrooms
Moana Franco ’25 spent her summer working with The Edible Classroom, a Lancaster-based
nonprofit that partners with schools and communities to create educational gardens.
Franco landed the role through the Ware Institute's Public Service Summer Institute
(PSSI). “I saw it as a wonderful opportunity to understand more about running a nonprofit
organization, connect more closely with the Lancaster community, and meet new individuals,”
she said. Franco noted she was drawn to PSSI due to the program’s thoughtful structure
and its focus on important issues. “This year, we concentrated on environmental justice,
and as part of the PSSI cohort, I had the privilege of connecting with local leaders
dedicated to addressing key social challenges within the community,” she said.
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Finding Culture & Community Through Lancaster Internship
When she transferred to F&M, Teagan Durkin ’26 set a goal to expand her professional
portfolio and become further immersed in LGBTQIA+ culture and community. The Ware
Institute's Public Service Summer Institute (PSSI) helped her achieve both by connecting
her with a Lancaster Pride internship. “I was responsible for researching and creating
a presentation around how Lancaster Pride can become better connected with and support
LGBTQIA+ folks within the realms of legal systems, education, safe spaces, community
engagement, and health and wellness,” Durkin said. “Additionally, I was heavily involved
in the nonprofit's various events: the annual Lancaster Pride Festival, various vigils,
and fundraisers like pool parties and a trip to New York City for a Broadway show.”
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Opportunities
Community Service
Service Saturdays
Alternative Breaks
Squash Aces Mentoring
Young Engaged Student (YES) Guides
Public Service Summer Institute (PSSI)
The Public Service Summer Institute began in 1994 in response to an institutional
belief that a true liberal arts education includes making meaningful contributions
to the community. The program has evolved from focusing predominantly on the internship
experience to one that places equal value on the learning and personal development
that happens through the combination of both the collective cohort experience and
the individual internships. Students are paid by the College for the eight-week program
(housing is not included).
F&M Works in Lancaster
Community-Based Learning
First-Year Pre-Arrival Program
Become a Community Partner
We value our partnerships with local nonprofit and government organizations. Discover how you can work with us to connect with F&M students.
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