The Institute of Community and Civic Engagement certificate at De Anza College gives students the opportunity to help different communities and gain hands on leadership and community organization experience.

“The ICCE’s focal points are civic justice, leadership and positive community involvement,” said Cynthia Kaufman, the director of ICCE and adviser of the Students for Justice club.

DASB senator Karla Navarro, plans to receive an ICCE certificate after winter quarter.

“I see myself working with non-profits as a community organizer,” she said.

“I will never stop being engaged with my community,” she said. “Once you get your hands into organizing and community building, you can never really take them out.”

Internships are available on- and off-campus to students through the ICCE program.

Other programs include:

• Mentors for Youth Empowerment matches up De Anza students with 10 high schools to help build a roadmap to college.
• Veggielution Community Farm in San Jose creates a sustainable food system through urban farming and engages the community by providing access to healthy and local food.
• HEFAS program provides AB540 students scholarships and resources like computer usage and free printing.

Through the programs and internships, students gain valuable leaderships skills to make an impact on their communities.