Project Guidelines

Guidelines from the National Honor Society Handbook:

· Generally, when choosing the projects, it is best to steer away from activities that directly benefit a member's family.

· Service projects done for financial or other compensation are often viewed as contrary to the common definition of "service."

·Verification of service by asking for an adult's signature from a supervisor is a way to guarantee that all chapter members are fulfilling their responsibilities in a fair and appropriate manner.

·Chapter advisors are encouraged to set up a system where chapter members seek approval for the Individual Service Project prior to completing the project.

· Choose projects that you would not already be completing. Remember that this is an opportunity to grow in confidence and leadership by sampling activities, some of which may be unfamiliar.

· Balance your projects so that some are activities where the adult in charge is not always a familiar adult or family member.

·One purpose of the Individual Service Project is to build leadership. Take ownership over these projects so that they are truly your projects. Give great consideration to the idea of designing some of them yourself, managing them yourself, and completing them yourself. Rely on parents and other trusted adults only for transportation, safety, monitoring, and encouragement.

· Projects that involve another member of our local chapter are encouraged. Sometimes two members can help each other gain confidence and leadership! Each member has to show leadership even in a group project.

·That being said, your NHS/NJHS advisor will accept a portion of your hours towards community projects that are designed by legitimate groups (ie., non-profit groups, church groups, the local food bank, etc.). Organizations and agencies that already exist in our community are doing great work and need our help. Negotiate with your NHS/NJHS advisor what fraction of your hours can be used with these important groups.

*Remember that Individual Service Hours cannot be gained from school service projects, even if you volunteer beyond the required amount. Another adult/group organized these events, and you would miss the opportunity to gain confidence and leadership if you were allowed to count these.

· Always take along your Hours and Tracking form to be signed by the adult in charge. Remember that it is your responsibility to fill out the form (and not the adult's job).