Empowering Students, Serving Seniors: The Mayor's Service Corps offers high school students in Dearborn the opportunity to engage in community service by assisting seniors with snow removal (shoveling snow). This initiative is a collaborative effort between the City of Dearborn Mayor's Office, Senior Services, Dearborn Public Schools, and various student outreach clubs.
Sign-Up Process: Students can sign up through their school clubs (like Rotary, Key Club, National Honor Society, Athletics, etc.) or individually.
Requirements: Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Volunteers who are 16 or 17 will include information for a parent contact in their application; that parent will have the choice to sign a consent and waiver form with their student. All required forms are included during the application process.
Team Formation: Volunteers are grouped, with a minimum of two students per group, to complete assigned tasks.
Task Assignment: When snowfall occurs, a platform called Monday.com is used to alert and pair volunteers with residences needing service. Service is expected to be provided within 24 hours of each significant snowfall event throughout a season.
Volunteer Coordination: The Mayor's Service Corps identifies volunteers, ensuring all appropriate agreements are in place, and coordinates the assignment of tasks.
Task Completion and Feedback: Following each snow removal task, volunteers fill out a feedback form, including before- and after-photos and the time spent on the task. This information is crucial for validating community service hours.
Safety and Preparedness: Volunteers must work in groups (minimum of 2) outdoors (not entering residences) and bring their own snow removal equipment and appropriate attire.
Clearing Expectations: The responsibility includes clearing all requested areas (which vary by address and can include sidewalks, porches, walkways, and driveways). Backyards are off-limits unless supervised by an adult.
Weather Readiness: Volunteers should be dressed for all weather conditions and bring their own water/snacks.
Timeliness: Efforts should be made to start service within 12 hours after snowfall, and no later than 24 hours after heavy snow accumulates.
Feedback and Photos: After completing the task, fill out the feedback form. Include before- and after-photos and note the time spent on the service. (The feedback form will be sent to you automatically.)
Community Service Hours: Your volunteer hours will be recorded and confirmed.
Reflection: Reflect on your experience and the impact you've made in the community!
Through the combined efforts of dedicated volunteers and supportive community members, the Mayor's Service Corps strives to make Dearborn a safer, more connected community, especially for our seniors in need.