What is Community Engagement?
Rooted in the life and teachings of Christ, our mission is to foster meaningful connections and collaborations with the people around us. Loving our neighbor is an essential part of faith formation. Many students, faculty, and staff of Samford University seek to do just this through acts of service, mutual learning, and a long-term commitment to our city. Whether you are serving in the Greater Birmingham Area or on our Spring Break mission trip, we want to see you out there!
Get Involved
The Office of Community Engagement provides multiple opportunities to integrate faith, learning, and leadership:
Community Cadres
September 14-November 13
Get Involved with Community Cadres! Choose from a variety of volunteer opportunities and serve either on or off campus during a designated eight‑week period in the fall and spring semesters. Along the way, you’ll earn 10 convo credits while making a meaningful impact and supporting local changemakers. Join Community Cadres and be part of something bigger!
Freshman Serve Day
Saturday, September 12 & October 24
New to Samford? Start with Freshman Serve Day! If you’re an incoming or transfer freshman, Freshman Serve Day is a great way to connect with other first‑year students while getting to know the Birmingham community. This event is offered twice during the fall semester, giving you multiple opportunities to get involved, serve others, and build meaningful connections. You can participate in one or both serve days!
Community Engagement Week
October 19-24
Join us for a week-long celebration of service, learning and impact. Community Engagement Week will bring together students, faculty and staff to connect with our community partners, support meaningful causes and discover how we can make a difference on campus and in our community. Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or just getting started, there’s something for everyone. Let’s come together to serve, grow and inspire change.
Spring Break Mission Trip
March 6-13, 2027
Ready to Take Your Service to the Next Level? Join us on our annual Spring Break Mission Trip and experience a transformative journey of faith and service. This unique opportunity allows you to make a meaningful impact, immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, and grow in your faith alongside others. For more details, visit the Community Engagement website. Parents are welcome to join us!
Samford Gives Back
Friday, April 2, 2027- Faculty and Staff Event
Saturday, April 3, 2027- Student Event
Samford Gives Back is one of the largest service events of the year, dedicated to showing love and support to our city. Each spring, students, faculty, and staff come together to partner with local nonprofits and make a meaningful impact in the Birmingham community. It’s a day centered on service, connection, and living out what it means to be part of the Samford community. Mark your calendar for April 3, 2027 and join us as we serve together!
Samford Give Pulse
Not sure which program is right for you? Check out Samford GivePulse, your go-to platform for finding volunteer opportunities and getting connected in the community. It’s an easy way for students, faculty, and staff to partner with local nonprofits and make a difference in Birmingham and beyond. Explore the Samford GivePulse page to get involved and see how Bulldogs are serving and showing up for others!
Community Partners
Are you looking for meaningful ways to connect with Samford students? The Community Cadre Program provides a unique opportunity for community organizations to collaborate with students who are eager to serve and learn.
Through this designated 8‑week program, community partners and students collaborate during the fall and/or spring semesters to support the mission and goals of local organizations. Students commit 1–2 hours each week, gaining meaningful service experience while contributing to your organization’s initiatives.
To get started, review the program overview and then complete the Community Cadre Interest Form below.
Please note: Community Cadre partner spots are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Placement is not guaranteed, and all partner sites must comply with the Community Cadres Program guidelines and policies.
Community Partner Program Overview Community Partner Interest Form
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Community Engagement at Samford University?
Community Engagement connects Samford students, faculty, and staff with local organizations to serve, learn, and make a lasting impact in the Birmingham community. Through programs like Community Cadres, Spring Break mission trip, and Samford Gives Back, we aim to foster civic responsibility and meaningful partnerships.
For Students
How can I get involved in community engagement?
You can participate through opportunities such as Community Cadres, Samford Gives Back, Freshman Serve Day, and our Spring Break mission trip. Each program offers unique ways to serve and connect with community partners.
Do I need previous experience to serve?
No experience is required! Our programs are designed to help you learn and grow through hands-on service, regardless of prior involvement.
Can I earn convocation credit through community engagement?
Yes. Students who complete all requirements of the Community Cadres Program can earn up to 10 convocation credits each semester. Additional convo credit opportunities may also be available through select community engagement events, with credit amounts varying by event.
How do I track my service hours?
Students record service hours and reflections using Samford GivePulse, Samford’s online community engagement platform.
For Community Partners
How can my organization partner with Samford?
Organizations interested in partnering with Samford students can do so through programs such as Community Cadres, Freshman Serve Day, Law School Serve Day, and/or Samford Gives Back. To get started, review the program overview and then complete the Community Cadre Interest Form or contact the Office of Community Engagement directly at engage@samford.edu to discuss partnership opportunities.
Are Community Cadre placements guaranteed?
Placements are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Partner sites must meet program guidelines and receive approval from the Office of Community Engagement.
Can my organization offer virtual service opportunities?
Yes. Organizations may offer remote or hybrid opportunities when the work aligns with program goals and provides meaningful engagement for students. Please note that remote opportunities are available only through the Community Cadres Program, while Serve Day projects must be conducted in person or on Samford’s campus.
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