IYLI Fellows and other students participate in CSDP through which they plan and execute one or more service projects that benefit their community based on the host organization’s mission and their own vision for positive change. Their service enables students to gain firsthand experience dealing with social issues and to develop and apply academic and leadership skills in real-world settings. Students may engage in a placement in a community organization or institution, for example, Legal Aid Society, or a hospital or after-school program, international assistance organization, or elected official’s office. They may participate in a CSDP placement in teams or individually.

Students identify their own placement organization or IYLI assists them in identifying a placement site. The CSDP handbook outlines responsibilities and expectations.

Fellows commit to a minimum of 4 hours per week (average total number of 64 hours.

Placements are for 4-6 months and may take place after-school or on weekends.

Fellows may participate in CSDP in groups or individually, depending on interest, availability and other factors.

Fellows are expected to contribute to the host organization in ways that best serve its needs and constituents. While students may also perform routine tasks, the purpose of CSDP is to allow students the opportunity to plan and implement a project that builds on their interests while supporting the placement organization. This project incorporates the focus of the organization and benefits its constituency. Fellows prepare proposals for the projects. Their site supervisor and IYLI staff approve the proposals.

IYLI staff will work with internship supervisors to ensure that Fellows do not just provide basic office support, for example, but are able to make a meaningful contribution to the organization.