Local Volunteer Opportunities

Contribute your time!

The Public Service Center's Volunteer Program serves the Cornell and area communities. More than 100 agencies list their volunteer openings with the Center's Volunteer Program. As one agency director said recently, "We literally could not do the job we have done without the energy and time of these workers."
Community Program Specialists are available to assist you in finding a volunteer opportunity that fits your needs and interests. First you must determine what kind of opportunities you want (ongoing or one-time), how much time you have available, what areas of interest to pursue, and so on. Things to consider:

• On-going opportunities are for individuals who are willing to make a commitment to one agency.
• One-time event(s) such as festivals, cleanups, fundraisers, etc. wouldn't require a regular commitment from the volunteer.
• Group projects offer a dynamic team-building experience.
• Course placements provide a direct connection between what you are learning in the classroom and practical uses for that knowledge.
• Be realistic about your expectations. Make sure you and the agency person have the same expectations of each other and the placement.
• If you are going to be late or can't go to the agency at all, you need to CALL. (They expect you and, in many cases, rely on you.)
• Have you discussed your class schedule with them, including holidays, time off, and also end of the semester time for studying, so they can plan in advance?

Our Getting Involved questionnaire can help you assess your interests and schedule, and make sure you've considered all aspects of volunteering.

Then go to our database to search for a local opportunity or stop in at the Center to meet with a Community Program Specialist.

Opportunities Beyond Ithaca

Alumni
National & International Service Organizations
 

• Student Service Groups
• Job Opportunities
• Fellowships
• Internships
• Local Volunteer Opportunities
• Funding
• Getting Involved Questionnaire

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