CHARLESTON, IL (07/22/2026) Eastern Illinois University is strengthening its commitment to community engagement through its Community Service Leave program, which provides eligible employees with paid time to volunteer with nonprofit organizations and community agencies throughout the region.
The initiative reflects the University’s longstanding emphasis on service, civic engagement and building meaningful relationships beyond campus by encouraging employees to contribute their time and talents to causes that strengthen East Central Illinois.
“Relationships are at the heart of what makes Eastern Illinois University distinctive,” said Fantasy Sharrett, executive director of human resources. “Community Service Leave affirms that commitment by creating opportunities for employees to extend those relationships into the communities we serve. Whether volunteering individually or alongside colleagues, employees are able to support organizations that make a meaningful difference while reinforcing Eastern’s culture of service.”
As an example, members of the Human Resources staff participated in volunteer projects across Coles County using Community Service Leave earlier this year.
Amanda Repp, Stacey Atteberry, Danielle Goehner and Sara Steiskal spent a day beautifying Kiwanis Park by cleaning flower beds and planting new flowers. On another day, Alex Thomas, Iris Martinez and Kasondra Harrell volunteered at the Coles County Humane Society, assisting with the care and socialization of animals awaiting adoption. Others helped by lending support to community service events, including Charleston High School‘s Homecoming parade, the recent Fourth of July parade, and at local non-profits, such as the Charleston Community Theatre.
The volunteer efforts highlight the range of opportunities available through the program, from environmental stewardship and public beautification to supporting local nonprofit organizations that serve residents throughout the region.
Community Service Leave is one of several ways Eastern Illinois University encourages employee engagement and community partnership. The program complements the university’s broader mission of fostering civic responsibility and creating positive impacts across the communities it serves through the work of its students, faculty and staff. Those interested in exploring becoming an EIU employee can review the University’s open positions at eiu.edu/jobs.
EIU is the largest employer in Coles County and a critical economic driver for the southern half of East Central Illinois. Based in Charleston, Illinois, EIU is a top-tier employer in the region with more than 1,000 full- and part-time workers, including faculty, administrative staff, and support personnel. Beyond direct payroll, EIU sustains hundreds of secondary local jobs in regional hospitality, dining, property management, and retail by bringing thousands of students and families into the community annually.
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EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, community-based services and opportunities, visit Eastern Illinois University or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.