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Service Learning Resources

Tips for Contacting Agencies

Before Calling an Agency:

1. Think about what you would like to do.
2. Research various organizations and decide what service you would like to provide.
3. Decide on the time you have available (day, month, hours, etc.).
4. Discuss your plan with an adult (teacher, parent) and seek their input before making any calls.
5. Have a calendar, pen, and paper with you when you place the call.
6. Be professional when talking on the phone. (Do not eat or chew gum while talking on the phone.)

It is a good idea to know what you are going to say and to practice ahead of time:

The following is a simple guide:

Hello. My name is ____________. I am a student at______(name of school) ___ in Fairfax County Public Schools. I am contacting your agency because I am interested in volunteer and service opportunities. May I please speak to your volunteer coordinator? (use the name of the person if available)

Good afternoon. My name is ________, and I am a student at ______(name of school)___. I am interested in performing a service for the community. I would like to talk to you about what I could do to help your organization. Is this a good time for you to talk?

From this point on, you will need to simply follow the lead of the other person. Be sure to find out:

• What services are needed.
• When, where, and how often the services may be performed.
• Whom you should contact upon arriving at the site.
• What you will need to bring.

BEST OF LUCK!!!