Graduation is the milestone every student looks forward to; and for many, earning cords through clubs, classes, or community service makes the moment even more rewarding. But how can you make sure you meet your silver cord hours? Read on to discover volunteer opportunities and insight from the former East High coordinator that can help you earn your silver cord.
A question that may arise for many students is, why participate in the Silver Cord program? Achieving the honor of the silver cord helps students understand the value of community service and volunteerism. It teaches responsibility, empathy, and leadership while encouraging students to take an active role in improving their community. “Having those volunteer hours look great on your resume and applications for college, jobs, and scholarships,” former East High School coordinator Jaymi Vanderlinden said. By volunteering, students not only help those around them but also strengthen school pride and connection.
Volunteering allows East High School students to support others while building school pride and a sense of connection. For East High School junior Kayla Xaysana volunteering plays a large role in her life and her plans for the future. Xaysana believes the silver cord is more than a reward for your dedication, but also a symbol that you spent a lot of time during high school volunteering and putting work into being involved at school. “Volunteering is important as a student because it shows dedication and the hard work you put in during the time you have in high school,” Xaysana said.
The Silver Cord is a special graduation honor awarded to students who complete 160 hours of verified community service throughout high school, with 40 hours recommended each year.
However, there are specific guidelines for what qualifies as eligible service. Hours do not count if they are:
• Court-ordered community service
• Done for a for-profit business or organization
• Compensated in any way
• Travel time to and from the service site
• Personal or individual services such as babysitting or peer tutoring
• Hours completed during class time without approval
• Student aide work done for credit
Religious-based volunteer work can count toward Silver Cord hours if it involves community outreach or leadership, such as:
• Teaching Sunday school
• Leading youth groups
• Babysitting during religious services
• Recording or videotaping services
• Participating in mission trips
Beyond the honor of wearing the silver cord at graduation, the program offers meaningful benefits, strengthened college and scholarship applications, improved communication and teamwork skills, and real-world experience in different career paths. Reflecting on her volunteer work, Xaysana believes that service introduced her to new environments and opportunities: “Before, I wasn’t really open to a lot of things, but once I started volunteering, it opened a lot of doors for me like hospitality and communicating with those I give tours to,” Xaysana said.
In a world where many choose to remain on the sidelines, choose to engage. Value others, make an impact, and uphold East High School’s motto: For the Service of Humanity.