Community Engagement

Working with members of the local community is an invaluable part of a Shepherd Program education. These co-curricular opportunities range from serving meals at the Campus Kitchen to mentoring local students through the college application process.  The first opportunity available to incoming students is the Volunteer Venture trips.  For students looking for an easy way to connect, create a Nabors Service League profile and opportunities will be emailed your way.

The Blue Ridge Mile

As part of the Shepherd Program at Washington and Lee University, The Blue Ridge Mile is a student-led program committed to supporting clients in navigating the steps required to obtain or reinstate a driver’s license. Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the systemic and personal challenges in that process, as well as a greater knowledge of the District Court and Department of Motor Vehicles.

Bonner Program

The Bonner Program is a unique leadership development program for students with an interest in service and civic engagement.

Community Academic Research Alliance (CARA)

The Community-Academic Research Alliance is a community-based research initiative that supports research partnerships between Washington and Lee University and non-profits in the Rockbridge area to address pressing community challenges. These partnerships aim simultaneously to mobilize the community for responsible social change, lay the foundation for a healthy community, and advance the education of Washington and Lee students. CARA projects can yield academic credits either in the form of independent study or course-based projects.

Nabors Service League

The Nabors Service League, in collaboration with community based agencies, connects students with opportunities to learn, serve and reflect on issues of poverty and inequality.

Volunteer Venture

Volunteer Venture is a one week service-learning Leading Edge program for incoming students. The program introduces students to the contributing factors of poverty in cities surrounding W&L.