Silver Cord Information

Make sure you are aware of the guidelines for Silver Cord hour approval!

Service Cord hours must be for providing a service or meeting a clear need for a:

• Non profit agency (NEIA Food Bank, Salvation Army, Hospital(s), Library, YMCA, Waterloo Youth City Council, etc.)

• Church - any volunteer position that benefits others

• School - volunteer position that benefits others and is not a class requirement

• Park - maintenance, restoration, etc.

• Charity program - mission trips, etc.

• Fundraiser - benefit for a family in need, Relay for Life, etc.

• Community event - if there is any question about whether a specific volunteer experience meets the criteria of “providing a service” or “meeting a need” students should get prior approval from the school counselor via an in-person meeting. The Service Cord Review Committee makes final determinations regarding service.

The following will not be accepted as Silver Cord hours:

• CHS sports team managing

• Most CHS music program events (unless not a member of the organization)

• Concession stand or fundraising events in which proceeds benefit a CHS program the student is involved in 

• Performing in musical, dance, or theater groups; unless related to a social cause or charity benefit

• Participation on committees in which focus is on one’s own leadership development and does not include outreach to larger community

• To satisfy a class or requirement by any agency, program, or organization

• Court-mandated community service

• For a relative

• For pay or compensation of any kind

• Travel to and from volunteer activities

• Acting as a teaching assistant (TA) during the school day

• Any time the school is in session, unless pre-approved by principal and school counselor 

Read the full guidelines for more details.