Service
At Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, service is more than a requirement—it’s a reflection of our calling to follow Christ and love others well.
Grades 9-12
Service Requirements
All Upper School students are required to complete at least 120 hours of service with nonprofit organizations prior to graduation—including 60 hours in direct engagement with individuals from vulnerable communities. In addition, each student participates in two service immersions: one by the end of sophomore year and a second by the fall of senior year. Most students go well beyond these minimums, graduating with an average of over 200 service hours. These experiences deepen empathy, shape purpose, and equip students to bring healing and hope to a broken world.
Why Service?
As an active member of the Greater Cincinnati area and the global Christian community, CHCA believes in the transformative power of service—for both those who give and those who receive. Volunteering fosters:
- Compassion and humility
- Critical thinking and self-awareness
- Real-world skill development
- Deeper understanding of justice and community
Through service, students live out our mission to learn, lead, and serve with purpose.
Who We Serve
We are called to serve “the least of these” (Matthew 25:35–40). Students must complete at least 60 “direct contact” hours serving individuals from vulnerable populations, such as:
Individuals experiencing poverty or homelessness
The elderly
Those with physical or mental disabilities
Individuals with special needs
Widows and orphans
The sick
Veterans
Communities impacted by natural disasters, war, or crisis
What Counts Toward Service Hours?
Direct Contact Hours
Face-to-face service with individuals from a vulnerable population, completed through a non-profit organization or registered service event.
Regular Service Hours
Unpaid volunteer work through a non-profit agency, ministry, or charitable event that may not involve direct contact.
Theater Crew / Orchestra
Students may count up to 10 hours per semester. Hours must be logged individually.
What Does Not Count?
The following activities do not fulfill CHCA’s community service requirement:
Babysitting (unless pre-approved by the Outreach Office)
Practice/training sessions
Volunteering for family members or family businesses
Service through for-profit entities (even if community-oriented)
Roles supporting a student’s own extracurricular interest (e.g., volunteer hours required for a sport or theater role)
Paid work of any kind
Still unsure? When in doubt, ask before you serve. Contact the Christian Service Outreach Director for clarification.