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SOLS
Service

Vanderbilt Outreach Initiative for Community Empowerment

The Vanderbilt Outreach Initiative for Community Empowerment (VOICE) is a year-long immersive experience that gives students the opportunity to complete service with a local community partner, engage in facilitated discussions to enhance their service and leadership development, and gain 1:1 mentorship.

VOICE logo

Application Process

The application for the 2025-2026 VOICE program is currently closed.

Program Highlights

VOICE provides students with the unique opportunity to engage with the Nashville community through service. Students in the program will:

  • Identify personal and professional connections developed through the cohort and community partner site.
  • Develop a sense of belonging by reflecting on how their experiences shape their worldview and connect to the Nashville community.
  • Demonstrate compassion through a commitment to addressing issues facing their communities.
  • Articulate their development by effectively communicating the skills and experiences they have gained.
  • Promote innovation by developing a personal leadership philosophy that supports sustainable community engagement.

Leadership

Students will meet bi-weekly to talk about a multitude of topics focusing on different community engagement, service, and leadership development skills.

Eligibility Information

To be eligible to apply, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • All majors are welcome to apply!
  • Can commit to completing 40 hours a semester for both semesters
  • Can commit to attending bi-weekly cohort meetings
  • Strong interest in community engagement, leadership, and public service
  • First-year, sophomores, and juniors may apply

Service

Students will be placed with a local Nashville community partner organization. Students will be required to complete 40 hours of service a semester. Options of service can include being in-person, hybrid, or remote. Transportation will be provided for most in-person service opportunities through Lyft codes.

For more information about past community partners, please reach out to SOLS@vanderbilt.edu.