The mission of this service learning research project (Adopt a School) is to ultimately assist at-risk students in Keystone Central School District and their families in maximizing their health and academic potential. This project is intended to engage Lock Haven University students in a community service project that addresses local needs while developing academic skills, a sense of civic responsibility, and a commitment to the community and two high poverty elementary schools. The two schools targeted for this project have 92% and 62% of their student body and their families living below the poverty level. This project will include a needs assessment administered to the teachers and support staff to identify the gaps of service that impair health and learning. The results of this assessment will be used to plan and implement risk-reduction strategies that promote a healthy child, family, and in turn, a healthy community. Program and services will be provided to the elementary students as indicated by the needs assessment. Local community Health and Human Service agencies and various departments within Lock Haven University will be utilized to provide educational services. Students with the guidance of LHU faculty will identify needs, develop lesson plans, deliver programs, contact and enlist appropriate Health and Human service agencies to meet the student’s needs. Efforts will be taken to develop sustainable relationships among the elementary schools, LHU and community organizations, as well as reduce the fragmentation of services to this needy population. This project will engage university students and faculty; elementary students, parents, teachers and support staff; and community Health and Human Service agencies within Clinton County. Qualitative and quantitative data will be collected to support the “culture of evidence”and the impact that service learning may have on a student’s sense of commitment to society and to living in Pennsylvania after graduation.