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How to Start a Student Club

Why Have a Student Club?

A student club creates a safe and non-judgmental space where formerly incarcerated students feel comfortable and welcomed. Students may ask questions that they otherwise might not ask and it alleviates feelings of isolation that can cause students to drop out.

A student club can connect its members with community organizations that provide tattoo removal, record clearance, mental health care, and other services.

Clubs can be a way for formerly incarcerated students to connect with faculty and staff who can become mentors. The club can also provide leadership and professional development opportunities for its members, which can help students build resumes.

Clubs can build on- and off-campus partnerships. These might include partnerships with nearby four-year colleges to create transfer pipelines, on-campus networks to increase work-study or other employment opportunities, and pathways into existing statewide and national student networks.