With so much going on at an international, national, and local level -- it is hard to know where and how to make a difference. At Drake, we are proudly 'of our place'. We celebrate our neighborhood, our city, and our many partnerships. This page is dedicated to the many ways that you (yes you) can make a positive difference for our communities in need.

Feeling stuck?  Let's get going!

Contact your elected officials

Calling or writing to your local elected officials helps ensure they are aware of where their constituents stand, and it allows you to advocate for your community. Drake University is located in:

• Iowa Senate District 17 (Find your Iowa legislators)
• Iowa House District 34 (Find your Iowa legislators)
• Iowa’s 3rd Congressional District (Find your US Representative)
• The State of Iowa, represented by two U.S. Senators

Research the issues:

• Find current bills and reference them in your letter or phone call
• Be specific about why the issue matters to you
• Don’t forget to reference the policy, bill, etc. that you oppose or support

Volunteer

• Des Moines Refugee Support
• IMPACT Community Action Partnership
• Lutheran Services of Iowa
• Des Moines Area Religious Council
• WesleyLife Meals on Wheels
• Or, DU Good has many great service opportunities on and off campus

Donate Food, Supplies, or Money

• Check with the organizations named above on what they need for food and/or supplies

Random Acts of Kindness

• Simply by being kind to another, makes a difference. If we all extend a little extra kindness, it adds up to a lot!

Most importantly, *vote*!

• Ensure you are registered
• Find your polling place
• Vote via absentee when needed

For more, visit the office of Community Engaged Learning

• The Office of Community Engaged Learning (CEL), is located on the first floor of the Johansen Student Center. The CEL office can support you in finding opportunities for meaningful community involvement.
• Community Engaged Peers (CEPs) are fellow Drake students who lead specific initiatives in the CEL Office. They can help you get involved with voting, food security efforts, and more. Stop by or email servicelearning@drake.edu for a meeting.
• Follow @drakeservice on Instagram and Facebook, and subscribe to the CEL newsletter to stay informed about upcoming opportunities and connect with the office.