The following guidelines must be followed to participate in activities that are considered acceptable for community service:

• Community service is defined as non-paid volunteer work with a non-profit agency.
• Students may begin accumulating service hours as early as the summer prior to entry of the 9th grade year.
• Service should benefit the community at large. Working solely for an individual will not be acceptable.
• Hours must be documented in writing, either on a common community service log (generated by the School) or on letterhead from the organization being served.
• Students who do not have access to community service opportunities must be provided opportunities on the school campus. It is the student’s responsibility to alert the School
• Counseling Department that he/she is in need of school access to community service
• Time spent organizing and collecting canned goods, clothing, or book drives for a community in need does qualify as community service.
• Service on behalf of a candidate for public office is acceptable.

The following are examples that would not count as community service:

• Rehearsal time for participation in a fine arts or performing arts program.
• Practice time for sports and band.
• Club meetings to organize community service activities.
• Donating canned goods or items to gain community service hours.
• Parents cannot sign to verify their child’s participation in a community service activity 

I want to volunteer, but where?

• Check the volunteer file in the school counseling office.
• Visit the United Way Website (www.unitedwaypbc.org), Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org) or the School District website (https://www.palmbeachschools.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=8920292).
• Check with your club sponsor.
• Check with the activities office at Park Vista.
• Listen to the announcements. 

Is Community Service Required For Graduation?
Yes- 20 hours of community service are required for graduation but remember it can also help you to be a better candidate for college acceptance and for scholarship selection.

What Is The Community Service Requirement For The Bright Futures Scholarship?
- 75 hours for the Florida Medallion Scholars award level  
- 100 hours for the Florida Academic Scholars award level