BLOOMINGTON - Central Catholic High School student Alex Osterbuhr volunteered at Bickford House to fulfill a community service requirement needed for graduation.

But he liked it so much he's still giving his time. And he's not alone.

Even though school is out, dozens of Twin City students who donated time because their schools required or encouraged it are continuing with their efforts during the summer months.

"I like it because I felt like I was helping people who needed help and I like talking to the residents," said Osterbuhr, who visits the Bloomington independent and assisted living facility to play games with residents and help at mealtime.

During the school year, he crams volunteering into a packed schedule that includes playing football and baseball and managing the school's basketball team. He also works hard to maintain good grades.

A few other schools in the area, mostly parochial, require community service to graduate. Many public schools have clubs or organizations such as student council, Future Farmers of America, Key Club or Interact Rotary Club that encourage service projects, but don't require volunteerism.

Administrators at both parochial and public schools agree there are frequently students who go above and beyond what is expected.

CCHS Principal Joy Allen said some students log as many as 50 hours each semester - five times the school's 10-hour-per-semester requirement.

In Unit 5, volunteerism is not required, but many schools have special projects that encourage students to reach out to the community.

Madison Henderson, 16, a Normal West Community High School student, became inspired to volunteer from a school project and continues to make it part of her life.

Henderson participated in "Big Give," initiated by the school's guidance department. It was patterned after the television show "Oprah's Big Give," in which ordinary folks did extraordinary things for strangers.

Henderson raised $100, conducted a food drive, and volunteered at Bloomington's Jesus House, which assists low-income and homeless people. She volunteered about 40 hours over the month-long project and hopes the program continues next year.

"I really care a lot about other people and giving back to the community," said Henderson, who is volunteering at Jesus House this summer.

As part of the same effort, freshman Blair Harris collected school supplies for children in India, and another student, Ellen Mulch, took part in a blood drive, a church fund-raiser, helped as a mentor and visited an elderly neighbor.

They were among about 50 Normal West students who recorded a total of 150 volunteer hours as part of the Big Give project, and probably did twice that many hours of giving without logging them, estimated Corey Ostling, an intern in the school's guidance department who helped with the project.

"The best way to boost self esteem is to help others," Ostling said, quoting research that prompted the guidance department to start the effort.

Normal West Principal Tom Eder recognized the students' efforts, and the top three givers were also surprised with gift certificates for food, gas or golf.

Teaching youth to help others is seen by some schools, including Bloomington's Cornerstone Christian Academy, as part of their mission.

The academy previously required students to perform service hours. While they are no longer required, service hours outside the school are encouraged, and incorporated into the curriculum, Beth Songeroth, senior and junior high school dean, said on Wednesday.

As such, elementary students at the academy have a special bond with residents at Bloomington Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, said Principal Doug Pavey.

Inspired by Bible verses to give to others, the children make gift bags and placemats, perform skits and do activities with residents at the assisted living and retirement center.

"Volunteering is one of the most precious things that anyone can give a nursing facility," said Janice Kindred, administrator at Bloomington Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center. "Residents enjoy being able to talk to someone who is younger. It lifts their spirits."