Need volunteers? Harwood seeks student community-service opportunities
August 4, 2026 | By Lisa Scagliotti
Harwood Union High School students in grades 9-12 are expected to fulfill an annual community service goal that varies by grade for a total of at least 35 hours before they graduate as of last year. File photo by Lisa Scagliotti
With the new school year just on the horizon (first day back is Aug. 26), Harwood Union High School is putting out a call for opportunities over the coming months for students to participate in community service.
Although Harwood students have long done community service, school leaders last year formalized that aspect of student life. Students in grades 9-12 are expected to fulfill an annual community service goal that varies by grade for a total of at least 35 hours before they graduate.
“We define community service as any unpaid work that benefits others, happens outside of academic classes, and takes place on the HU campus or beyond,” explained April Rule, administrative assistant. “We encourage students to find opportunities that spark their passions and contribute to the well-being of our community.”
To that end, the school has an online form where community members can share ideas for opportunities for students to join in to assist with an activity that will meet school requirements. Anyone with an event or project that could benefit from the help of one or multiple Harwood students is encouraged to share details using the form.
The suggestions should not involve students needing to miss class time. Background checks are not needed since the service times are not during the school day. Students log their hours to keep track of the time they volunteer.
Rule offered examples of service opportunities such as volunteering at a local library or food shelf, helping out with an event at a local senior center, mentoring younger school students, or helping set up and working at a community organization fundraiser.
The program began in the 2025-26 school year. Freshmen are required to perform five service hours. That increases to 10 hours per year in grades 10-12.
Questions may be directed to Rule at arule@huusd.org or Harwood Principal Meg McDonough mmcdonough@huusd.org