Students at Australian Catholic University's (ACU) Strathfield, North Sydney and Blacktown Campuses will put theory into meaningful practice thanks to a renewed partnership with the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW.
ACU students will have the choice to complete their Community Engagement unit at outreach services run by St Vincent de Paul Society NSW, including the Matthew Talbot Hostel, Vinnies Support Centres, and the Ozanam Learning Centre.
Vinnies NSW operates more than 100 services and programs across the state, focusing on improving housing and homelessness, community inclusion, health services, food relief and emergency aid.
The renewed partnership continues the Society's ongoing support of ACU students who, as part of their degree, contribute to their community through community engagement placements and service-learning.
ACU research found university students who completed community placements as part of their studies developed a greater sense of empathy than those who just learnt theory.
Placement opportunities with community members who experienced some form of disadvantage or marginalisation also made students more empathic and understanding of people with differing personal circumstances.
ACU has a strong affiliation with the St Vincent de Paul Society nationally through ACU's Community Engagement programs including the Clemente Australia program.
ACU's national manager of community-engaged learning Dr Jen Azordegan said the university was grateful for the continued support and partnership with the Society of St Vincent de Paul Australia.
"ACU Engagement is proud to continue partnering with the Society to provide our students the opportunity to connect classwork with meaningful community action," Dr Azordegan said.
The Society NSW's Director of Programs – Members Joy Kyriacou encouraged ACU students to take advantage of the opportunity to gain experience and give back to the community through the partnership.
"There are so many opportunities available for students to make a positive impact in the community, such as our Vinnies Vans which are meeting people where they're at with food and connection every day," said Ms Kyriacou.
"Students can provide practical assistance to people by volunteering but also gain a greater appreciation of how their degree can help shape a more just and compassionate society."
Explore all of ACU's Community Engagement opportunities for students at acu.edu.au/ACUengagement.
