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The most important investment we can make in our future.

The Allstate Foundation has made social and emotional learning (SEL) and service-learning programs possible for millions of young people across the country.

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SEL and Service-Learning:
A Powerful Combination

Succeeding in School, Work and Life

More than two decades of research shows that SEL skills, like resilience, empathy and teamwork, are a better predictor of lifelong success than academic ability alone. What’s more, the benefits of SEL apply to every child, regardless of background, socioeconomic status, interests and abilities. And, SEL is widely supported by both teachers and parents: More than seven in ten teachers and parents believe social and emotional skills are foundational to a student’s success later in life.

Nurturing Engaged Citizens

Research shows that students who participate in service-learning – programs that engage students in activities to better others and their community – demonstrate significant gains in five outcome areas: attitudes toward self, attitudes toward school and learning, civic engagement, social skills, and academic performance . Service-learning gives youth the opportunity to achieve goals for their communities and themselves.

Building More Equitable Communities

SEL and service-learning can serve as powerful levers for creating more equitable communities by fostering environments where all individuals are respected and valued. According to CASEL, “SEL can help address various forms of inequity and empower young people and adults to co-create thriving schools and contribute to safe, healthy, and just communities.”

Preparing for Workplace Success

The kinds of skills that SEL addresses, such as problem solving and collaboration, are increasingly necessary for the labor market. The top ten skills needed for the workplace identified by the World Economic Forum all involve social and emotional competence. And according to one estimate, 65% of children entering grade school will ultimately work in jobs that don’t exist today, putting creativity, initiative and adaptability at a premium.

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Girls supporting one another.

Find SEL and service-learning resources

The Allstate Foundation partners with organizations so we can maximize our positive impact on young people—and society as a whole. Learn more about SEL and service-learning resources from our non-profit partners

1 Celio, C., Durlak, J., & Dymnicki, A. (2011). A Meta-analysis of the Impact of Service-Learning on Students

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