This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Calvin organization now known as the Service Learning Center (SLC). While every incoming Calvin student has at least experienced their work through StreetFest, an annual volunteer event for freshmen, that is only one of the many things the SLC does throughout the year.

Many classes require or encourage students to do academically-based service-learning, a specific area of the SLC that has been a part of Calvin academics since 1993. Other events and projects that the SLC offers include week-long spring break service trips, ACT tutoring and the West Michigan Special Olympics tournament.

The SLC was established in 1964 as a student organization called Project KIDS (Kindling Intellectual Desire in the Schools). Completely run by students at that point, the group’s main focus was to allow those studying at Calvin to get involved in local schools. After a few name changes over the years, the organization became a permanent part of Calvin and its vision for faithful service.

“The Service Learning Center got an official office with staff members in the ‘90s and gained a focus on academic value,” said Noah Kruis, the associate director of the SLC.

The SLC will be leading a chapel next week Wednesday, Feb. 19, in order to celebrate the success of the program and thank God for his faithfulness through the past 50 years. A larger reunion will be held in early June.