Social Witness

Each year, a number of students participate in our Social Action/Social Witness (SASW) program. SASW scholars commit to a deeper exploration of the intersection between working for social justice and nurturing the spiritual life. The SASW scholars devote between 15 and 20 hours a week to a particular social justice project – most often working in the community for service organizations or agencies committed to transforming unjust social conditions.

Flexible Community Placements

The program is based on a service learning model where the scholars are either placed as workers in qualified agencies or are freed to pursue a personal project of social change. Central to the program is the expectation that scholars not only embody social witness and activism in the world, but also encourage the participation of the entire Pendle Hill community.

Peer Group Sharing

SASW scholars meet regularly in a peer group, supported by Pendle Hill staff or seasoned resident activists. In addition, SASW scholars participate fully in the student life of Pendle Hill, attending meeting for worship and classes, working with a spiritual nurturer, and joining community activities, including daily and weekly jobs to support the household.

For All Ages and Experience

Activists of all ages and experience are encouraged to apply. In addition, Pendle Hill seeks applications from seasoned activists interested in mentoring those participating in this program. SASW students are eligible for special scholarships which cover up to 75% of tuition, room, and board at Pendle Hill. Participants can develop their own community placements or apply for placements through partner organizations recruited by Pendle Hill. Some of these organizations may contribute stipends to supplement student scholarships. Each year at least one scholarship is designated to support an African-American activist through the Richard I McKinney Social Witness Scholarship.