The One-Day Service Events program (ODSE) was designed to provide members of the AU community with a myriad of opportunities to connect with the diverse communities of the District. Although this program is primarily focused on the facilitation of short-term community service projects there have been several enhancements that allow participants to experience deeper levels of community engagement. The Center for Community Engagement & Service (CCES) sponsors seven One Day Service Events each year.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day of Service
On Monday, January 21, 2013 we will celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through service with the local community. During the first week of November we will conduct a MLK Day of Service information session for students interested in assisting with the planning of the event.
The Campus Kitchen Project Washington D.C.
Each month AU students meet at St. Luke’s Mission Center to prepare and serve food to the District’s Homeless community. This collaboration between Bon Appétit Dining Services of American University, Starbucks (Downtown Bethesda), Jericho Center of Hope, Metropolitan Memorial United Methodist Cooperative Parish, St. Luke’s Mission Center, and Regency House engages about 20 students per month.
World AIDS Day
The World AIDS Day is celebrated on December 1st. In 2011, the Center staff partnered with the student group Queers and Allies, and several organizations (The AIDS Institute, Carl Volger Center, and the United Planning Organization) along with the Kay Spiritual Center, GLBTA Resource Center, and Multicultural Affairs to facilitate a week of activities to raise student awareness on the issue.
Black History Month
To carry on the legacy of Carter G. Woodson. In February the Center for Community Engagement & Service staff collaborates with several student groups to facilitate a community service event to celebrate Black History Month. This event is open to all members of the AU Community (Alumni, Faculty, Staff and Students).
Latino History Month
Every September the CCES and AU's Latin American Student Organization (LASO) collaborate to co-sponsors a service event that provides support to a community partner who serves primarily DC’s Latino community. This event is open to all members of the AU Community (Alumni, Faculty, Staff and Students).



