As college students, most of our time is dedicated to learning. Whether it's studying for classes, doing homework, or participating in extracurricular activities, we're in school to learn and develop our careers. However, there are other ways to learn beyond the textbooks. For example, consider volunteering!

Not only will you be giving back to the community and helping change people's lives, you can also learn a lot, make new connections, and build your resume. In fact, according to the Corporation for National and Community Service, volunteers have a 27% higher chance of finding a job than those who don't volunteer.

Ready to take action? Here are 5 ways to get involved in the Platteville community:

1. Platteville Regional Chamber

The Platteville Regional Chamber offers many ways for community members to get involved. For example, one thing you can do is volunteer to help with community events, such as Derby Days, the Chamber Golf Outing, the 4th of July Celebration, Southwest Music Festival, Dairy Days Parade, or cleaning up Katie’s Garden.

For more information, visit: http://platteville.com/volunteering/

2. Mining & Rollo Jamison Musuems

Interested in the history of Southwest Wisconsin? Then volunteer with the Mining & Rollo Jamison Musuems! If you are a people person, you can be a tour guide and lead educational activities for youth, or help greet guests at special events. Or, if you are more hands-on, consider helping maintain the grounds and gardens.

For more information, visit: http://mining.jamison.museum/volunteer

3. Wisconsin Badger Camp

The mission of Wisconsin Badger Camp is to serve people with developmental disabilities by providing quality outdoor recreational experiences. You can volunteer your services throughout the year for everything from building projects and trail clearing to assisting with health care.

For more information, visit: https://badgercamp.org/volunteers.php

4. Platteville Main Street Program

The Platteville Main Street Program advocates for the restoration and preservation of the historic character of downtown Platteville. They are looking for volunteers to help out with various downtown event opportunities, including the 2nd Street Block Party, the Farmer's Market, Music in the Park, and more.

For more information, visit: http://www.plattevillemainstreet.com/about-us

5. Southwest Health

Volunteers at Southwest Health help make life a little better for the staff, patients, and community members. Opportunities vary, from organizing crafts for residents, to assisting the Emergency Department in comforting patients and families.

For more information, visit: https://www.southwesthealth.org/careers/volunteer/

Taking a few hours out of your week to volunteer will not only help strengthen the community you live in, you can also learn a lot and have fun.