Empowering communities through service-learning: a model for nonprofit volunteerism and civic responsibility

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine how higher education institutions fulfill their social responsibility mandates through structured service-learning. Using the internal revenue service (IRS) volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) program in the USA as a case study, it explores how skill-based volunteerism in academic curricula functions as an institutional expression of corporate social responsibility (CSR) while advancing student learning and nonprofit service capacity. Design/methodology/approach This research uses a case study approach, analyzing the redesigned Income Tax course where students gain hands-on experience by providing free tax preparation services to underserved populations in the USA. The engageability framework is applied to assess how value-based practices, managerial strategies, physical support and supportive networks improve student engagement and nonprofit sustainability. Findings The study finds that integrated academic-service models significantly improve student volunteer retention, professional skill development and nonprofit capacity, while reinforcing the university’s role as a socially accountable stakeholder. Additionally, embedding real-world service into coursework with nonprofit missions fosters greater civic responsibility, professional skill development and long-term engagement while addressing critical community needs. Originality/value This research contributes to the literature on CSR in higher education by positioning structured service-learning as a tool for fostering authentic student engagement and critical awareness of CSR motives. It extends the engageability framework into academia, providing a scalable model for aligning institutional resources with community needs. It offers practical insights for educators, university leaders and nonprofit practitioners seeking to design sustainable, mission-driven service-learning programs that fulfill both educational and societal goals.