SERVE

Bobcat Break, Texas State University's Alternative Break program, is an experiential opportunity for students to travel, explore various social issues impacting different communities, and understand their relationship to the global community through education, reflection, and direct service. These all-inclusive, short-term service trips are perfect for those seeking to be challenged, empowered and create impact.

Bobcat Build was started in 2003 as a way to say “Thank You” to the San Marcos community.  It has now turned into a Texas State University tradition and serves as the largest service project on campus. Every spring semester, students volunteer their time to complete various service projects throughout the community such as landscaping, painting, or clean-ups at residents’ homes, local schools, parks, churches, and neighborhoods. 

Find a volunteer opportunity that's right for you! Leadership and Service provides opportunities for students to give back to the Texas State and San Marcos community given by local non-profit organizations and other community outreach programs. Texas State students, staff, and faculty are also able to submit and track their service hours through our new platform, Engage. View our page to find current service opportunities.

The Newman Civic Fellowship recognizes and supports community-committed students who are changemakers and public problem-solvers at Campus Compact member institutions. Fellows are nominated by their president or chancellor on the basis of their potential for public leadership.

Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides students with training and resources that nurture their assets and passions and help them develop strategies for social change. The yearlong program, named for Campus Compact founder Frank Newman, includes virtual learning opportunities and networking as part of a national network of engaged student leaders and an optional in-person convening.

The Nonprofit and Volunteer Fair is a new initiative from the Leadership and Service team to provide Texas State University students with volunteer opportunities in and around San Marcos, potential career pathways into the nonprofit sector, or resources that could aid in their experiences while at Texas State. Our goal for this fair is to connect students to the surrounding community and either discover new pathways into service or continue their service journeys while at or beyond Texas State University.

Service Saturday is a Signature Event that takes place during Bobcat Welcome every August. This event introduces new students to the TXST shared value of “a commitment to service and leadership for the public good”. In partnership with the City of San Marcos, new students learn about what it means to not only join the Bobcat community, but also the community of San Marcos by participating in a cleanup of the San Marcos River. Participants also receive coupons, promo items and free food!