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Bonner Program


The Bonner Program

The Bonner Program consists of around 30 college students who demonstrate a commitment to community development and service learning in the greater Greensboro area. Divided into a cohort model among four class years, every Bonner completes 100 hours of service learning. Students selected for the program have displayed, through the application for admission process, an extraordinary commitment to civic engagement and social change. 

Bonners attend biweekly meetings that focus on service learning topics and community engagement strategy.  Bonners also meet biweekly with their class to progress through the Bonner Program Model.

Throughout their time at the College, Bonners participate in a series of “cornerstone” activities: First-Year Service Trip (typically taking place in the spring semester of freshman year), Second-Year Service Exchange with another Bonner Program, a Junior Capacity Building Project, and a Senior Capstone Project and Presentation of Learning.

First-year students interested in applying should contact the Office of Admission at at 336.316.2100 or admission@guilford.edu. Learn more about the program on the Scholarships and Grants page.


Bonner Leaders

Every semester, each Bonner Leader completes 140 hours of service work. Students selected as Bonner Leaders have demonstrated, through the application for admission process, an extraordinary commitment to and engagement with community service. Bonners are expected to demonstrate a high level of financial need as determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Bonners attend monthly meetings that focus on service and community issues, as well as the productive accomplishments of their peers. Bonners also meet biweekly with their class to progress through the Bonner Programming Model.

Throughout their time at the College, Bonner Leaders participate in a First-Year Service Trip (typically taking place over Spring Break), Second-Year Service Exchange with another Bonner College, a Junior-Senior Capstone Project, and a Senior Presentation of Learning.

First-year students interested in applying should contact the Office of Admission at at 336.316.2100 or admission@guilford.edu. Learn more about the program on the Scholarships and Grants page.


Community Scholars

The Community Scholars program provides students with the opportunity to earn Federal Work-Study (FWS) awards by working with a partner in Guilford County. The purpose of the program is to encourage students receiving FWS to participate in community service activities and encourage a sense of social responsibility. During their service work, students learn more about their community, impact the lives of local residents and earn part of their financial aid award.

These jobs are paid positions. Both on-campus and off-campus jobs can qualify, however, on-campus jobs must involve a program, project or service that is provided to the general public. On-campus jobs that serve only the College community do not qualify.

Community Scholars may serve at one of the above service sites. Should they wish to serve with a community service organization not listed above, they should contact the Coordinator for Civic Engagement and Bonner Program as this is permitted on a case-by-case basis.


Community Scholars FAQ

Am I eligible to participate in the Community Scholars Work-Study Program?

If you have been awarded FWS as part of your financial package, you are eligible to participate.

What is the process for utilizing my award?

Bonner Center staff will approve your request to be a Community Scholar and help you find appropriate placement.

How do I find a work-study job?

You’re encouraged to serve at one of the Bonner Center’s committed sites or find an opportunity at the Volunteer Fair held the first week of school.

How are my work-study funds disbursed?

You can sign up for direct deposit of your monthly pay through human resources once your contract is signed.

Can I have more than one Work-Study job at a time?

Yes. More than two jobs at any given time isn’t recommended, however, so that you can maintain focus on your academics.

How many hours a week may I work?

This depends on your award. In order to make sure your money last through the academic year, you should stick with the suggested hours per week on your contract.

Can my award carry over from one year to another?

No. Remaining work-study awards do not carry over from one academic year to another.

What are the tax implications of having a work-study job?

Work-study wages are subject to the same federal, state and local income taxes as any other earned income.