Silver Cord Program

The Silver Cord program is an opportunity for students to be recognized for completing 200 hours of community service during their four years of high school. It is the intent of the Silver Cord program that hours be in direct service to others in need through local community service agencies and other outreach opportunities. Silver Cord hours must meet a clearly defined need for an agency, charity program, church, political agency, social service, group or community event. In order for hours to be honored, the student may not receive payment or credit for their services and hours may not be completed during their regular school day. Camp Wapsie LITs can earn up to 171 hours of service plus 12 hours for orientation. 

Service NOT recognized: School activities such as selling merchandise, homecoming events, music or athletic practices, work or babysitting for one’s family or any other family, participation in self-improvement workshops and clinics or service which is part of an academic, court-ordered, or disciplinary requirement. Service must be performed through a non-profit agency or affiliated organization. Generally, activities that are part of a West High team, club, activity or course will not be counted toward Silver Cord hours. Seniors who complete the required hours of service will be honored at the Senior Recognition Assembly and will wear a silver cord at graduation.

We will accept no more than 8 hours per day of an activity for Silver Cord and all hours must be submitted prior to the end of the school year in which they were completed. Service hours completed over the summer will be accepted beginning the summer after the completion of 9th grade.