The purpose of the course is to consider the role of service in the development of community and self. The course reflects the mission of Williams to nurture the civic virtues, including a commitment to "engage the public realm and community life" along with the "associated virtues of character," perseverance, tolerance, respect and concern for others. Requirements: In addition to conventional coursework the course entails "field based" service-learning work and related exercises to be completed outside of class time, including a minimum of 40 hours of off-campus service work.