BOCA RATON, FL (June 2, 2011) – The Spirit of Giving Network, a collaborative of 60+ nonprofit organizations working together to strengthen the community, promote civic engagement and secure resources for the county’s most underserved populations, was honored with the FAU Student Affairs 2011 Community Partnership Award.  The award was presented to Karen Krumholtz, Executive Director of the Spirit of Giving, on April 29th at FAU. 

The FAU Student Affairs Community Partnership Award is given to one organization or individual each year that exemplifies a dedication to partnering with the FAU Student Affairs Division.   Karen Krumholtz and the Spirit of Giving Network were honored for their work with FAU’s Academic Service-Learning Program.  The Academic Service-Learning Program takes learning to the world beyond the classroom and enhances education by engaging students in service and allowing them to address social issues. 

The Spirit of Giving Network has been instrumental in connecting FAU students with their member agencies for volunteer and learning opportunities that complement the students’ education while supporting nonprofit organizations.  FAU students were involved in several projects including creating an environmental sustainability survey for Boca Helping Hands, developing a sustainable non-profit business plan for the KidSafe Foundation and designing and planting a garden at the Milagro Center.  The Spirit of Giving Network also provides volunteer training for FAU students to prepare and screen them for placement in volunteer opportunities. 

“Karen and the Spirit of Giving Network’s community partnership with FAU provide the students of FAU with a tremendous amount of volunteer and Academic Service-Learning opportunities,” comments Nori Carter, Director of the Weppner Center for Civic Engagement & Service at Florida Atlantic University.  “Karen displays true dedication in working with our students and faculty to build bridges in our own backyard for children and families who can benefit from the connections formed.”

“We are very honored to receive the FAU Student Affairs 2011 Community Partnership Award,” comments Karen Krumholtz, Executive Director of the Spirit of Giving Network. “The Academic Service-Learning Program is a wonderful program for students that directly supports our mission of strengthening our communities while promoting civic engagement.  Our member organizations are thrilled to have the support of the FAU students.”