People study psychology to help others. And importantly, helping others in your community can also give you great personal satisfaction and provide experience on your resumé. That's why community service is such an important component
of your Psi Chi experience.
Your chapter is encouraged to complete at least one group service project each year. In fact, with 1,250+ chapters around the globe, at least one chapter is probably conducting a service project at this very moment. Exciting, isn’t
it?
GLOBAL CHAPTER SERVICE PROJECT
Put a smile on your community's face and a pie in the face of one of your college’s beloved psychology professors! All chapters are invited to participate in this meaningful and easy-to-complete service project. Instructions
and support are provided by Psi Chi, and all proceeds will go to support the Christian Ladd Hall Scholarship for Mental Health Advocacy. Learn more.
Chapter Service Project Spotlights
Adams State University (CO)
Dating Zine
The chapter produced a Dating Zine for the Adams State community, aiming to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of social isolation. It featured content on the advantages of social engagement, like dating, and
the drawbacks of isolation, such as reduced lifespan and increased anxiety. The zine was distributed by pinning it on cork boards, placing it in high-traffic areas across campus buildings, and handing it out in the
Student Union Building, ensuring wide accessibility and impact.
Assumption University (MA)
Walk MS Fundraiser
The chapter partnered with the neuroscience club for Walk MS, raising over $500. The Psychology Department acquired two RealCare baby dolls for research, joining the existing doll, Becky. A fundraiser allowed students to
name the new dolls by donating to Walk MS. Marigold and Phineas were the chosen names.
California Lutheran University
Student Athletes' Mental Health Awareness
The chapter hosted a community service project on October 24 that advocated for awareness of student athletes' mental health. The event was held at a women’s volleyball game at California Lutheran University. Chapter members
spoke with students and attendees about breaking the stigma on athletes’ mental health and provided informational resources.
Lasell University (MA)
Pillow Talk
"Pillow Talk" was an informative event offering practical tips for better sleep quality. Attendees learned about healthy sleep habits, stress management, and creating a comfortable sleep environment. They received sleep-related
items like masks and tea, along with informational flyers highlighting sleep's impact on health. Whether seeking solutions for sleep issues or simply curious, attendees found valuable insights at Pillow Talk to enhance
their sleep experience.
Marywood University (PA)
Psychology Club Psych Fair
The chapter engaged in the annual Psychology Club Psych Fair on March 24, 2023, attracting local high school students to explore psychology's significance. Their table featured stress-relieving activities such as discarding
intrusive thoughts, leave-a-song/take-a-song, a self-affirmation mirror, and a gratitude wall. Attendees also received mental health stickers, enhancing their understanding and interaction with psychology in a fun and
meaningful way.
University of Mary Washington (VA)
Positivity Rock Painting Event
The chapter put on a positivity rock painting event where students came to paint rocks to place around campus. These rocks had positive messages and pictures on them to inspire students across campus. The event supplied
a large bucket of rocks that were dispersed the following days.
Utah State University
Common Ground Adventures
The chapter completed a community service project for Common Ground Adventures in Logan, Utah. Common Ground provides life-enhancing accessible outdoor recreation activities for adults with disabilities. The chapter was
able to help with some spring cleaning to help make the upcoming adventures that Common Ground is planning easier to execute!
West Virginia State University
Valentine's Day Celebration
The chapter organized a Valentine’s Day celebration for underprivileged children in Kanawha County's afterschool program. Refreshments, games, and Valentine-themed prizes were provided, with a 45% member participation rate.
Activities included coloring sheets, relay games, and word searches, each offering chances to win prizes. Following the games, children were treated to pizza, chips, sweets, and juice by chapter members, ensuring a
memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
Example Projects
The sky is the limit when it comes to serving your community with Psi Chi. Your chapter projects can be big elaborate events or quick simple actions. They can be entertaining, clever, or original. They can put you outside of your
comfort zone. And yes, they can even change the world. Here are a few of our favorite chapter ideas to raise money and help others.
- Volunteer at a local veteran's hospital, soup kitchen, or community event.
- Talk to area school children about drugs, alcohol, and other related issues.
- Cohost a blood drive.
- Sponsor a field day for children with various developmental abilities.
- Go caroling or host a holiday party at nursing homes and hospitals.
- Conduct a clothing or canned food drive.
- Participate in a walk-a-thon or bowl-a-thon to benefit a group in need.
- Collect and donate books and school supplies.
- Participate in campus-wide service projects (e.g., beautification).
- Offer tutoring/mentoring to first-year college or high school students.
- Host a bake, cake, pizza, or barbeque sale.
- Sell flowers or T-shirts to raise money for a cause.
- Conduct a car wash.
- Help clean or rebuild after a natural disaster.
- Compile graduate school packets of information to sell through the campus bookstore.
Share Your Experiences
We love hearing about creative and inspirational service projects. Advisors and officers, be sure to take lots of pictures, and please submit your service project stories so
we can share your accomplishments in Eye on Psi Chi magazine.
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