Service learning gives students opportunities to go into the community so they can relate what they learn in class to the "real world." It allows students, faculty, and community organizations to work together to everyone's benefit. Classes are enriched and made immediate when students apply what they are learning at non-profits in their own communities. Faculty are challenged to evolve in their teaching. And social service agencies benefit when students come in to do projects, bringing fresh energy perspectives to their work. It's a win-win-win. See a recent Gilroy Dispatch article for one student's story.