Students participate in neighborhood cleanup. Students participate in neighborhood cleanup.

Service Opportunities

Community & Public Service Program

Your Opportunity to Serve Your Community

Students are responsible for finding the non-profit or public organization where they will volunteer for  35, 60 or 100 hours for RSSW credit.  The resources below are useful in assisting students in identifying CPSP nonprofit and public partners for volunteer opportunities. Students are permitted to volunteer virtually, in-person, or a hybrid of both for RSSW credit.

No car? No problem. Find transportation to your service site. Riding on the CDTA is free with your UAlbany ID. Or you can find a virtual opportunity to volunteer from home.

 

Community Service Opportunities A-Z

A - D

A

  • Adaptive Sports at Mt. Snow - Volunteers needed to teach skiing or snowboarding to students with disabilities. We provide on-line and on-snow training to prepare you. You should be a solid intermediate+ skier or snowboarder. Volunteers needed at Mt Snow mid-week or on the weekends. You can earn lift tickets for your volunteer time! Email [email protected].
     
  • Albany Barn, Inc. - Variety of in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities available to support a sustainable creative arts incubator and community arts center in Arbor Hill – a place for artists to live, work and inspire. Volunteers needed to develop marketing materials, create social media posts, produce videos, and assist with gallery maintenance between art exhibitions. Email Tori Abdelmagid at [email protected].
     
  • Albany County Crime Victim & Sexual Violence Center: Sexual Assault Hotline Advocates provide crisis intervention, support, information and referrals to survivors of sexual assault on the phone or in Albany County hospitals via the Crime Victim and Sexual Violence Center’s 24-hour sexual assault crisis hotline. Includes taking calls from home and responding in-person to the Emergency Room for Forensic Rape Exams. All advocates are required to complete 35 hours of training prior to serving on the hotline. Volunteer applications can be found at www.albanycounty.com/cvsvc. Location: 112 State St.  Contact Karen Ziegler, Volunteer Coordinator, at 518-447-7100 or [email protected]
     
  • Albany Housing Coalition Inc. Offers rapid-response assistance to Homeless Veterans and those at imminent risk of losing their housing. In-person volunteers needed. Contact Lee Vartigian at [email protected] or 518-694-0640.
     
  • Albany Institute of Art & History: Education Assistant needed as well as a Museum Shop and Visitor Services Assistant.  Location: 125 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12210. General education volunteer tasks may also include materials preparation, adding educational programs to local event websites, and assisting in research for program development. Duties at the visitor services desk include welcoming our visitors to the museum, taking payments for admission, answering, and directing phone calls, directing guests to the galleries. Contact Mallory Schultz, Education Manager, at [email protected] or Adam Dederick, Manager of Visitor Services and Retail Operations, at [email protected].
     
  • Albany Medical Center: Variety of in-person volunteer options. Orientation required. Contact Kelly Morrone, manager of Volunteer Services, at 518-262-3491 or [email protected].
     
  • Albany Memorial Campus of Samaritan Hospital in Albany:  Albany Memorial Campus is an outpatient care campus with opportunities for volunteering in the Emergency Department, PT/OT, Cardiac Rehab, and Medical Imaging. Hours are flexible and parking is free. For more information on volunteering, call Volunteer Coordinator, Amanda Weller at 518-525-1002 or email [email protected].  ER volunteers are especially needed!
     
  • Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission: Want to spend time outdoors? We need Community Science volunteers to help survey buckmoths in the Pine Bush Preserve. The training will be virtual, and the survey itself will done independently by volunteers in various locations throughout the Preserve. Contact Jodi Nash at [email protected] or 518-456-0655 ext. 1217.
     
  • Albany Public Library: The Digital Navigator Assistant will work with APL reference library staff to provide educational support to adults with digital literacy needs at Albany Public Library, such as assisting with resumes, internet skills, mobile devices and more. Must have good interpersonal and communication skills and have the ability to work with culturally diverse populations and adult learners, background in education preferred. Good knowledge of personal computers, mobile devices, and Microsoft Office programs. Schedule based on programming calendar, can range from 3-8 hours per week. The Spring 2023 session will begin March 2023. A small stipend will be available upon successful completion of hours OR you can earn academic credit for volunteering. Contact Amy McLaughlin at [email protected] or 518-427-4300 x 0334.
     
  • Alliance for Clean Energy NY: Virtual Volunteers only for the current time.  Virtual tasks may include administrative assistance such as preparing materials or letters for mailing; database assistance; data entry; creating marketing materials; creating social media posts; special projects. Contact Deb Peck Kelleher at [email protected] or 518-432-1405.
     
  • American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Capital Region: Variety of volunteer opportunities available. Please fill out the Volunteer Interest Application and contact Sandra Goldmeer, Area Director, Capital Region NY, [email protected]
     
  • American Red Cross of Northeast NY: Variety of in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities with disaster relief and COVID-19 assistance, including serving as a Blood Ambassador volunteer to staff our blood drives. Contact Holly Brunow at [email protected] or 518-419-3529.

B

  • Black and Latino Achievers Program (YMCA):  The program welcomes students from all backgrounds with a focus on minorities, motivating youth to develop and pursue higher education and career goals. Become a Mentor to middle and high school students to influence the life of a young person. Volunteers needed to assist with weekly meetings, teen nights, professional development, college trips, and more. For more information, contact Susan Perkins at [email protected].
     
  • Boys and Girls Club of Albany (Lyricism 101 Music Volunteers): Volunteer music teachers needed for the Lyricism 101 Mobile Studio program, an RV complete with recording equipment and editing software. Volunteers must be proficient at either piano, guitar, bass, or drums, and be enthusiastic about teaching children how to play an instrument. Contact Lorenzo at [email protected] or 518-462-5528.
     
  • Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area: Whether your interest is mentoring, interning, tutoring, providing career guidance, teaching a class, coaching, or simply playing a game of hoops, your volunteer experience at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is meaningful. Contact Soozey Walensky at 518-774-3490 or [email protected]

C

  • CanCode Communities (formerly AlbanyCanCode): Our primary need for volunteers is data entry/analysis. We're particularly interested in volunteers with strong skills in Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets who would be able to set up spreadsheets to help us with tracking and analyzing metrics and KPIs. Contact Rachel Sheridan at [email protected] or 518-238-6808.
     
  • Capital City Rescue Mission: Volunteers needed fora variety of programs at the Mission, including tutoring, maintenance, clothing ministry, preparing meals, or volunteering in the Free Medical Clinic. We are especially in need of Spanish interpreters who can help translate at the  Clinic on Tuesdays, Thursday evenings, or Fridays. Contact: Hope Smith, Volunteer Coordinator, at 518-462-0459 ext. 237 or [email protected].
     
  • Capital Repertory Theatre: Volunteers needed as ushers, bartenders, and on the Hospitality Team. Location: 251 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207. Complete the Volunteer Application and the Volunteer pledge form.
     
  • Capital Roots: There are a variety of in-person and remote volunteers positions available to support the Veggie Mobile, the Produce Project Urban Farm, Squash Hunger food donation initiative, the Food Hub produce market, and over 55+ community gardens throughout the Capital Region. Email or call Kim, the Volunteer Coordinator, at [email protected] or at 518-274-8685. Group volunteer projects are available as well!
     
  • Castle Island Bilingual Montessori: Variety of remote projects available, including social media coordination, website development, special projects, and assisting with fundraising and mailings. Possible in-person classroom volunteers. A volunteer application and orientation training are required. Contact Diane Nickerson at 518-533-9838 or [email protected].
     
  • Catholic Charities CC MOVE Volunteers: Volunteers needed to assist in the packaging and distribution of food. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 8:15 AM for morning distributions and 4:30 PM for afternoon distributions. These food distributions, or “drive-thru pantries,” are a part of Catholic Charities’ mobile outreach initiative, CC MOVE. Other volunteer opportunities are available as well. Contact Abbie Terwilliger at 518-453-6650 or [email protected].
     
  • Center for Law and Justice: The Center for Law and Justice could especially use interns and volunteers with a background in Social work, Public Health, Criminal justice, Pre-law/Law, Social media management, Grant writing. Check out our volunteer manual for an introduction to the center, volunteer  duties and responsibilities, full list of center programming, and ongoing volunteer projects: Volunteer Handbook 3.0. If you wish to volunteer, please e-mail our Executive Assistant Director directly at [email protected]. Location: 220 Green St, Albany, NY 12202
     
  • City of Albany Office of Cultural Affairs The Office of Cultural Affairs plans, produces and co-sponsors an array of fairs, festivals, and concerts promoting art and entertainment. If you are interested in volunteering at any of our upcoming events, please complete the volunteer request form below. For more information on volunteering, please contact Andre Cowan at [email protected] or 518-434-5416.
     
  • City Mission of Schenectady - We serve over 500 meals a day, house around 100 men, women and children each night, host classes for life skills, mental health counseling. We need volunteers to do anything from making sandwiches to facilitating class. Our goal is to meet the needs of our guests and match those to the area where each volunteer feels called. We don't receive any government funding so all the great things we do are because of caring people volunteering. We can connect and see if we are a fit for potential volunteers. Location: 425 Hamilton Street Schenectady NY 12305. Contact Nicole Amedore at 518-346-2275 or [email protected]
     
  • Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc / Bright Horizons - Volunteers needed to provide socialization, respite, and engaging activities to seniors with Alzheimer's within our Bright Horizons Adult Social Day Program. Training and orientation is provided. Location: 6 Winners Circle, Albany, NY 12205. Contact: Susan Napierski at [email protected] or 518-459-7967.
     
  • Connect Center for Youth: Volunteers are needed for our afterschool STEAM program for grades 6-12 in the fall on Tues, Wed, and Thurs afternoons from 3:00-5:00pm in areas such as coding, LEGO League, music, art, and more. You can also help provide healthy weekend meals to students. Join us Thursdays 10am-11am or Fridays from 7:30-9am to sort and pack backpacks with nutritious food. On Saturdays, volunteers are needed to assist with maintenance and construction projects. Contact us for more information at [email protected] or 518-687-1999. The Connect Center is located at 49 Johnston Ave, Cohoes NY 12047, and we are accessible on CDTA Bus Route 182 from the UAlbany Main Campus or downtown campus, connecting from Route 10 or 12.

D

  • Delmar-Bethlehem EMS Program (DBEMS): The College Student Bunk-in Program at the Delmar-Bethlehem EMS offers EMTs with an opportunity to ride 18 hours per week on an ambulance crew for Fall and Spring semesters. This is a volunteer position for NYS certified EMTs who are 19 years of age or older and enrolled in school. To fulfill the commitment, 6-hour bunk-in shifts are available 7 days a week from 6pm to midnight and midnight to 6am. Compensation is a newly renovated two-bedroom furnished apartment located just 8 miles from UAlbany’s main campus and within 1 mile of the EMS station in Delmar. More information can be found on DBEMS' website. DBEMS also offers regular membership requiring a volunteering commitment of as little as 12 hours per month. To apply, please contact: Lt. Bob Gehrer, Delmar-Bethlehem EMS at [email protected] or 518.369.3573.
E - H

E

  • Eden's Rose Foundation - The Eden's Rose Foundation is seeking dedicated volunteers to help maintain our gardens. This includes landscaping, weeding, composting, trash pick-up, and potential bee keeping if applicable. We are also seeking volunteers willing and able to help us manage various social media platforms, and take pictures at events. Location: 63 Quail St, Albany, NY. Contact Nina Halsted at [email protected] or 518-212-7450.
     
  • Ellis Hospital: As a volunteer you are asked to share a minimum of 4 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months. Volunteers are needed throughout all of the Ellis Medicine campuses (Nott, McClellan Street and Bellevue Women’s Center)and a wide range of volunteer positions are available 7 days a week. Junior and Seniors in high school are welcome to apply. Please call the Volunteer Services office at 518-243-4009 for more information. Fill out the Volunteer Application.

F
 

  • 15-LOVE: We are a youth organization that provides tennis and educational programs to inner-city youth. All of our programming is free, and open to children across the Capital Region year-round. 15-LOVE’s Healthy Living & Gardening program teaches our kids and families about the importance of diet and exercise to live a happy and healthy lifestyle. Our programs are designed to teach families inexpensive ways to make healthier choices at home. We also do some fun STEM experiments, reading activities, and games that help our participants about teamwork and responsibility. Volunteers are needed to assist with the Healthy Futures program on Thursday nights for classes at 4-5:15 p.m. and 5:30-6:45 p.m. from January 12 – April 27.  Additional volunteer opportunities for the Reading/Gardening Program in the summer and for organizational office projects are also available. Contact Anjalee Modasra at 518-438-2039 or [email protected]
     
  • FOCUS Interfaith Food Pantries: Join us! The pantry serves 300 families each month, providing a 7 day supply of food and personal items. Volunteers are needed to bag groceries, register pantry guests, restock the storage area, and help guests with food selections. If you are interested in volunteering at the pantry, contact us! This volunteer opportunity is offered from 10-1pm on weekdays. Complete a Volunteer Application. Contact [email protected].
     
  • Food Pantries for the Capital District: Mobile Outreach volunteers are needed to distribute produce at various sites, to set-up and take-down Mobile Outreach tables, and to provide great customer service to those in need. Transportation is needed to/from various sites in the Capital Region. Remote projects may also be available. Contact Kathy Marco at [email protected].
     
  • The Free School: The Free School in Albany, New York is the longest running inner-city independent alternative school in the United States.  We provide a unique alternative to traditional models of education by offering children a self-directed approach to their learning. Are you interested in art or music education? Do you have other skills and areas of interest you’d like to share with Free School students? We look for people with special life skills such as Gardening, Sewing, Cooking, Baking, Organizing, Art, and more to teach our students here, or volunteer at Gabi's Garden on weekends or occasional weekdays, which raises free food for the Albany Free School and to give away to neighbors. Location: 8 Elm St, Albany, NY 12202.  Please read about our Free School philosophy and history and fill out a Volunteer Application.  Contact Mahyana Sanon via email at [email protected] or call 315-921-3183 or 518-434-3072.

G

  • Girls on the Run: Serve as a running buddy to elementary and middle school girls. Time commitment varies by volunteer position. More information and volunteer registration forms can be found at www.gotrcr.org, or contact Sarah Smith Syden at 518-635-0828 or via email at [email protected].

H

  • Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Habitat for Humanity accepts donated new and used building materials, furniture, appliances and other home goods, and sells them in the ReStore to raise money to support affordable homeownership. Volunteers are needed in the ReStore warehouse to move, clean, and organize donated items. Must complete an orientation and wear closed toe shoes. Store hours: We are open Wed/Thurs/Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in our location at 71 Fuller Road. Full and partial volunteer shifts are available. Our primary days of need are Fridays and Saturdays, but we can accommodate Wednesday and Thursday as well. Please contact Volunteer Coordinator Dave Harrison at [email protected] and Emilie Searles at [email protected], or contact the Main Office at [email protected] or 518-275-6638. Walking distance (about 1 mile) to Main Campus.
     
  • Homeless and Travelers Aid Society: Variety of volunteers needed, including Volunteer Backpack Packers to assemble backpacks full of food and Volunteer Delivery Drivers to bring backpacks to local schools in Albany.  We need "handy people" to help maintain the warehouse and deliver furniture. Virtual volunteers are needed for fundraising assistance, mentors, clerical projects, and as workshop facilitators. For more information, call 518-463-2124 or email [email protected].
I - L

I

  • In Our Own Voices: Variety of volunteer opportunities are available to support, strengthen, and advocate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender people of color and their communities. Volunteer for the Black & Latina Gay Pride events in June or variety of events in summer/fall. Download the volunteer form or contact Vanessa Gonzalez at 518.432.4188 or [email protected]
     
  • Invisible Hands Deliver:  In-person volunteers are needed to deliver necessities to home-bound individuals and those affected by COVID-19 in NYC, Westchester County, Long Island, Northern NJ, and Philadelphia. Volunteers are trained to use contact-less delivery methods while following CDC guidelines. You can opt-in to deliveries based on your schedule and needs. A variety of remote projects are also available in the Call Center and Delivery Logistics teams.  This non-profit organization is eager for more volunteers! Contact [email protected]

J

  • Joan Nicole Prince Home / End-of-Life Care Hospice: In-person volunteers and remote projects to help provide dignity for end-of-life patients.  All resident care volunteers are trained and mentored with 24/7 on-call support from staff. Our Home is always in need of volunteers to assist with miscellaneous tasks in & out of the Home. Home volunteer positions include friendly visits, grocery shopping, scrap booking, or group volunteering projects. Volunteer maintenance positions include cleaning, repairs, snow plowing, etc. Business volunteers are needed to assist with outreach, fundraising, and thank you letters. Contact our Assistant Director at 518-346-5471 or [email protected] for more information.

K

  • No open positions.

L

  • Legal Hand Call-In Center:  Virtual volunteers will be trained to provide free information, assistance and referrals to help people resolve issues and prevent problems from turning into legal action. Volunteers must be 18+, non-lawyers, and live or work in Albany or Schenectady . For more information, contact [email protected].
     
  • The Legal Project: The Legal Project provides civil legal services and supports for the most vulnerable people in our community, including the working poor, women, immigrants and the LGBTQ community. Help completing forms, Filings with USCIS, Representation at Asylum Interviews (Credible Fear Interviews, Reasonable Fear Interviews), Representation before the Immigration Court, Representation before the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Location: 24 Aviation Rd., Suite 101, Albany, NY 12205. Contact:   Susan Pattenaude  518-435-1770 x 307 at [email protected]. More info at The Legal Project website or [email protected] 
     
  • Liberty Partnership Program: Good at math and science? Would you like to tutor/mentor high school students? We need tutors, especially for Math and Science, on Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30-5:30 p.m. with at-risk high school students at Albany High School. Other volunteer options are available 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (flexible hours). Contact Nyra Lownes-Alexander at [email protected].
     
  • LifePath Meals on Wheels: Variety of virtual volunteers needed to assist with social media, write letters and inspirational messages for Grab N Go bags, or provide telephone reassurance. For general volunteer inquires, please contact Kelly Casler, Volunteer Coordinator, at 518-235-2420  or [email protected]. Volunteer drivers are also needed for shifts Mon-Fri between 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. to help deliver 500+ meals per day. For information about volunteering as a driver for Meals on Wheels, contact Gretchen Moore at [email protected].
     
  • Love Your Block: Volunteers needed for neighborhood beautification projects! Some of our initiatives for volunteers will include, but are not limited to, community-wide clean-ups, planting trees, painting, and assisting with community events. As a part of Love Your Block, we will be focusing our efforts initiatives that benefit the larger community by making homes and neighborhoods safer, cleaner and more beautiful. If you are interested in volunteering on one or more days in your neighborhood, please fill out the Love Your Block Volunteer Registration and contact Love Your Block staff with any specific questions; contact information is listed on the program website.

 

M - Q

M

  • Mental Health Association in New York State, Inc. (MHANYS) - Volunteers and interns learn  insight and skills relevant in the world of mental health. Interns should complete an online application and attach a cover letter and resume (required). Opportunities include: policy and advocacy, eductiona, community engagement. If there are any questions about this process or about the Volunteer & Internship Program in general feel free to email Graham Healey, Community Program Manager at m[email protected]
     
  • Mission Accomplished: Volunteers needed to serve on Event Committees.  Students with a major in business, social welfare, public admin, or communication are encouraged to apply for an internship. Contact Coach Carmen at [email protected] or 518-207-0209

N

  • New York State Museum: Volunteer positions and internships are available in a variety of areas, including Research and Collections, Museum Club After-school Program, Public Programs, and Visitor Services. Fill out a Volunteer Application and Contact the Office of Volunteer Services at 518-473-2936.
     
  • NYS Police Internships with the Crime Laboratory System:   An internship designed for students interested in forensic science who may be considering a career in that field. This program allows students to gather specific knowledge, above that gained in the shadow program. Assignments can vary depending on the student's interests and academic coursework.​ Participants are assigned to various Crime Laboratory System Sections. If you are interested in a student internship in the Crime Laboratory System, please see how to apply.

O

  • No open positions.

P

  • PAUSE (People of Albany United for Safe Energy): PAUSE, the 350.org affiliate in the Capital District, is a grassroots group of individuals who have come together to promote safe, sustainable energy and fight for environmental justice. We seek a rapid transition to zero emissions and clean, renewable energy. PAUSEnergy.org.  Interns needed to assist with Social Media, outreach, event coordination, education, and committee support. Prior experience with climate and/or environmental movement is helpful. Strong writing/editing skills. Interest in learning about advocacy skills and legislative process.  Interested candidates should send their resume and cover letter to UAlbany's Office of Sustainability at [email protected] 
     
  • Planned Parenthood (Upper Hudson) - Volunteers and interns are a critical part of our organization, providing fearless activism for reproductive justice, uplifting the stories of patients, and spreading Planned Parenthood’s mission in our community. Fill out the Volunteer Application or Internship Application. Every potential volunteer will need to attend a training session in order to participate in volunteer opportunities. For more information, contact [email protected].
     
  • Albany Police Athletic League, Inc. (PAL): PAL offers numerous volunteer and internship opportunities working with Albany youth. Volunteers are required to fill out an application and visit the PAL office for an interview and orientation. To apply to volunteer with the Albany PAL, download and complete this form.  Afterschool Program Volunteer: Assist PAL Afterschool Staff with setting up/planning various activities such as art projects, STEM, recreational activities, etc., interacting with students, homework help, assist with cleaning, signing students into program, working front door, etc. Flexible scheduling available Monday-Friday. Various locations and times available. We serve grades K-5 at our elementary schools, 6-8 at our middle schools and ages 5-13 at our PAL Center.  Mentors also needed for the Mentoring Program: Our mentoring program takes place on Mondays from 5:30-7pm and Thursdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Mentors are matched with 2-5 children to do various curriculum based activities, along with various other activities such as recreational, strategic gaming (board games, card games, fooseball, air hockey etc.). This program takes place at our PAL Center, 844 Madison Ave.  Contact Allie Robert at [email protected] or 518-435-0392 ext. 231.
     
  • Pride Center of the Capital Region: We strive to provide services and advocacy to the Capital Region LGBTQ+ community. Our volunteer opportunities range from event setup and breakdown at our larger events, such as Capital Pride and our annual Pride Center Gala, to smaller tabling events and one-time events at the Pride Center in Albany, NY. Occasionally, we seek volunteer assistance for small projects around the Pride Center as well. If you have any interest in becoming a volunteer, please email Meagon Nolasco (she/her), Communications and Volunteer Coordinator, at [email protected] to get the process started. We look forward to working with you.
     
  • Proctor’s Collaborative: Our internships are designed for undergraduate and graduate students an in-depth experience of working in a not-for-profit arts venue. Training is often supplemented with discussions and workshops with directors, designers and senior staff who provide insight into their specific roles and the overall management of the company. Internships with Proctors Collaborative are: Part-time (12-20 hours per week); Monday-Friday (night and weekend hours may be available; (depending on the internship); Applications will be considered on a rolling basis for Fall, Spring and Summer terms; Unpaid, but can count towards educational credit. After reviewing the below internship positions, please complete an internship application. Completed applications must include a cover letter, and resume, and an Internship Application.

Q

  • No open positions.
R - T

R

  • Radix Ecological Sustainability Center & Urban Garden: Outdoor volunteers needed in the garden, to assist with landscaping and weeding, and to feed animals. Remote projects also available for grant-writing, communications, educational outreach, and working on social media projects. Contact Stacy at [email protected].
     
  • The Red Bookshelf: - On-campus volunteer positions are available. You will be trained to serve as a Literacy Advocate to lead groups of UAlbany students to mend used books that will be donated to children in need throughout the Capital Region. Volunteer orientation / training required. Contact Mary Beth Fowler at [email protected] or at 518-210-0449.
     
  • Regional Food Bank & Patroon Land Farm: In-person volunteering needed in the warehouse and salvage sorting rooms to pack food items. We run 1.5 to 2-hour shifts Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m.-noon and Tuesday through Thursday from 1-3 p.m. at our 6 Northway Lane location and from 5-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday evenings and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on weekends at our main facility at 965 Albany Shaker Road. Volunteers of all ages and ability levels are welcome to help us sort and box donations to be distributed to our member agencies. Volunteers also needed at the Patroon Land Farm with 15 acres in cultivation along with a greenhouse and Farm Stand. The farm is located at 132 Ketcham Road Voorheesville, NY 12186.  Please contact our Volunteer Coordinators at [email protected].
     
  • Refugee & Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE): Volunteers needed during the day for adult education literacy programs. One-on-one tutors are also needed for homework help for the afterschool program between 2-6 p.m. Mon-Fri to help support children ages 5 to 13 as they learn English as a New Language (ENL). Translators and office assistants also needed. Location: 715 Morris St., Albany (near Market 32 on Madison Ave in the Pine Hills area). Contact Kat Aviza at [email protected] or 518-621-1041.
     
  • Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region: Variety of volunteer opportunities available for individuals and groups, including fundraising support. Contact Tina Woodward at [email protected] or 518-438-2655.

S

  • Samaritan Hospital / Albany Memorial Campus of Samaritan Hospital in Albany: Albany Memorial Campus is an outpatient care campus with opportunities for volunteering in the Emergency Department, PT/OT, Cardiac Rehab, and Medical Imaging. Hours are flexible and parking is free. Volunteers especially needed in the Emergency Room for afternoon shifts between 2-8 p.m. For more information on volunteering, please submit an application or call Volunteer Coordinator, Amanda Weller at 518-525-1002 or email [email protected].
     
  • St. Peter's Hospital in Albany: St Peter's Hospital offers over 65 different positions for volunteers. Volunteers are asked to commit to a weekly shift. Hours are flexible and parking is free. Positions are also available for college students for volunteering or internships. Volunteers especially needed in the Emergency Room for afternoon shifts between 2-8 p.m. For more information on volunteering, please submit an application or call Amanda Weller, call Volunteer Coordinator, at 518-525-1002 or email [email protected].
     
  • St. Peters Crime Victim Services: Agency volunteers help victims of crime regain control of their lives by helping staff our 24-hour crisis hotline. Crisis counselors provide emotional support, information and referrals, active listening, and safety planning assistance by phone, and medical and legal accompaniments in-person at hospitals and police stations in New York's Capital Region. Volunteers may also help spread the word about agency services at community events through outreach volunteership. Location: 2215 Burdett Avenue Troy, NY 12180. To learn more about becoming a volunteer, please contact Elizabeth Karam, Volunteer Program Coordinator, by calling 518-271-3638 or emailing [email protected]
     
  • Sanctuary for Independent Media/ The Media Alliance: In-person volunteering for communications and radio production projects; Remote projects available. Volunteers are the brain, heart, and backbone that make the Sanctuary a thriving and vibrant community media and arts center. They help to shoot video, plan events, network in our community, build our space, and keep the place nice. Variety of volunteer projects include: event volunteering, radio production, video production, video editing, marketing, and more. Email [email protected] or call at 518-272-2390.
     
  • 7 Cups: Online Mental Health Volunteer Listener:  VIRTUAL Volunteer option. You will be trained to become an active listener through a 24/7 texting platform to provide emotional support for individuals. Hours are completely flexible for 24/7 responses from home to individuals' needs. You can help others while earning certifications to boost your resume. You have the power to change lives! To register, go to 7 Cups registration at EngageUAlbany.
     
  • Sheridan Preparatory Academy - A Community School: In-person tutors and mentors needed for elementary students. On-site volunteers needed for Mobile Pantry, Laundry Room, and Farmer's Market Food Bags. Flexible volunteer opportunities are available Mon-Fri from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Must fill out an Albany City School District Volunteer Form with two references. Contact Dario Hernandez at [email protected] or call 518-475-6857.
     
  • South End Children's Cafe: Do you love children? If so the South End Children's Cafe may be for you! Join children ages 5 - 12 after school to help with homework, enrichment, playing games, arts and crafts and more before everyone sits down to share a dinner. Have a cool skill to share like legos, chess, or juggling? Join us for enrichment and homework help for kids Mon-Fri from 3-6 p.m. Or you can help in the kitchen from 3-6 p.m. Mon-Thurs. There are a variety of other support tasks for volunteers such as cleaning the cafe or driving to pick up donations. Please contact Anna Schupack at [email protected]
     
  • Stratton VA Hospital: Volunteers provide a wide range of supplemental support to programs for our veteran patients throughout the year. If you want to volunteer, or just want more information on how you or your organization can help our veteran patients, please contact Miahael Fitzpatrick, Voluntary Services Manager at 518-626-5506 or [email protected]
     
  • STRIDE Adaptive Sports hires local college interns for credit or community service hours. STRIDE interns learn about non-profit management, therapeutic recreation services, business management, research in the field of adaptive sports or business administration. If you are interested in volunteering please contact STRIDE Program Director Allison Ryan at [email protected] to express interest and receive the links for a background check and Safe Sport training.
     
  • Sunnyview Physical Rehab. Hospital - We have volunteer opportunities with working with our patients, Physical Therapy, Nursing, also working in offices. No hands on as a volunteer . You would be asked to visit patients, play games, bring around a book cart, water flowers, fresh water. Also bring patients outside in nice weather to get fresh air. Location: Sunnyview Hospital 1270 Belmont ave. Schenectady NY 12308. Contact Joan Laviolette at [email protected] or 518-386-3631.

T

  • Ten Broeck Mansion, Albany County Historical Association: We are looking for groups or individuals who would like to volunteer to keep our garden, grounds, and community clean and beautiful. Between May and October we run monthly community clean-up days on the first Saturday of each month. In addition, we can also coordinate separate volunteer events. We are easy to get to in Albany's historic Arbor Hill neighborhood, have ample off-street parking, and we serve a high-need (high poverty) community with 100% free children's programs. Projects include picking up trash and sticks, raking leaves, sweeping walkways, and pulling weeds. If your community service or volunteer group is interested please contact us at [email protected] or 518-436-9826.   
U - Z

U

  • UAlbany Blackstone Launchpad (On-Campus): The Blackstone Launchpad at UAlbany leads University-wide initiatives to launch successful startups and commercialize technology created by SUNY Albany students, faculty and researchers. We are a team of startup experts that offers educational programming and events, and help identify funding opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs. Please contact Jenny Huang at [email protected] for more information or if you are interested in volunteering or interning. MAY BE ON HOLD FOR 2023-2024.
     
  • UAlbany Business & Finance Intern for the School of Social Welfare: We're looking for an intern to assist with budget and tracking accounts for the School.  The position would work with the Assistant to the Dean for Finance and Administration.  The candidate will be working with Excel to create weekly balance reports, monitor balances, track purchase, and verify which accounts are being used for which expenditures.  The candidate should have basic experience working with Excel.  This position could be 1, 2 or 3 credits. Commitment for the full academic year is preferred. Contact Rick Neff at [email protected].
     
  • UAlbany Center for Excellence in Weather & Climate Analytics: Virtual volunteers needed to assist with advertising efforts across different websites and social media platforms, and work on a range of projects that will enhance student research capabilities and database skills. Preferred experience in website design (we use Squarespace) and interest in sustainability, renewable energy, and weather prediction. Contact Phil Al Annabi at [email protected].
     
  • UAlbany Communications Class:  Attend volunteer training to prepare for the campaign, and help with running the campaign during Apr.10th ~Apr.17th, including decorating the tables and charity walls,  and help with tabling at LC, guiding people to sign up as organ donors, games and giveaways per the campaign plan, and any other ad-hoc tasks. Functioning as a social marketing agency, the Communication Campaign Practicum class (ACOM465) offers students the opportunity to design and implement a communication campaign for an actual client – The Center for Donation and Transplant (cdtnyvt.com). By developing a strategic and theory-based campaign, we aim to help the client raise awareness of Organ & Tissue Donation, grow the donor registry, and encourage open communication about organ donation. The planned on-campus campaign allows us to educate the community about the urgency of organ donation, facilitate discussion about its importance and meaning of being an organ donor, dispel the common myths about organ donation and transplant, attract more attention from the targeted community, and more importantly, inform the community about our efforts made for a good cause. Contact person: Lin Lin, [email protected], or 518-867-1511
     
  • UAlbany Community Outdoor Clean-up Assistant: Volunteer ambassadors will pick up litter on designated streets within the Pine Hills community at least 2 hours p/day on at least 3 days p/week. Volunteer hours are flexible as long as it occurs during daylight hours. CCUA’s will work with Off-Campus Student Services and the Dean of Students Office to arrange their schedule, pick up cleaning supplies, and document hours. Volunteers must be willing and prepared to be outside during cold weather months. If interested, contact Off-Campus Student Services at 518-442-5501.
     
  • UAlbany Hillel: Volunteers will help our organization by assisting with data entry, graphic design, setting up and staffing events, or organizing office space, among other things. We will work with volunteers to create positions that use their strengths and help them grow as professionals. Location: Campus Center 344. Contact Rabbi Nomi Manon at [email protected] or 518-442-5586.
     
  • UAlbany Intensive English Language Program (IELP):  A variety of volunteer opportunities are available to assist international students in improving their English language skills and to learn more about American culture. Serve as a Conversation Partner, attend weekly Conversation Clubs, help with IELP activities, and more. Contact Susan Gorga at IELP at [email protected] or [email protected]
     
  • UAlbany Juvenile Treatment Center Program: Do you enjoy working with adolescents? We're looking for academic tutor/mentors for students ages 13-18 who are participating in the Juvenile Drug Court Treatment (JTC) Program. Tutors needed to assist with general study skills as well as homework in academic subject areas, including helping participants earn their High School Equivalency Diploma. Training provided. Must be flexible, friendly, and empathetic and willing to serve as a role model and mentor for teens in the Juvenile Treatment Center program. Stipend may be available. Contact Jennifer Horn at [email protected] or 518-442-5683.
     
  • UAlbany Student Press - Volunteers will be expected to contribute a certain amount of articles monthly in order to fulfill credit requirements. Volunteers are also expected to attend at least two of our weekly pitch meetings per month in order to receive full credit. Contact Sumaiya Nasir at [email protected].
     
  • UAlbany Office of Student Activities (UAlbany Go): Looking for Marketing Interns who are available on Friday afternoons. Do you love attending events and staying up to date on campus activities? We need a UAlbany Go Ambassador to help with social media content creation, posting flyers, and creating marketing materials. Ambassadors will be required to complete 5 in-person hours a week through attending events, staffing the Involvement Center and UAlbany GO Desk, and facilitating Spirit Fridays for at least 1 hour on Fridays between 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Must commit for the full semester. Contact Megan Popcun at [email protected].
     
  • UAlbany Office of Sustainability: Looking for assistance for a variety of interns including: Composting and Gardening Intern (must be available on Fridays for 2-3 hours), Social Media Video Content Manager, Brand Ambassador for Fill It Forward, Social Media & Marketing Intern, and more. Contact Mary Ellen Mallia at [email protected] or 518-442-2601.
     
  • UAlbany PASS Mentoring:  Allows junior and senior students to act as a resource for freshmen and sophomore students as they navigate campus. Mentors in the PASS program are required to meet weekly with their assigned mentees and give advice through shared experiences on campus. PASS mentors help fellow students get involved on campus and connect them to the appropriate resources. This is an opportunity for students to strengthen their communication and networking skills while also establishing connections with their peers.  Apply to be a mentor.
     
  • UAlbany Purple Pantry:  Volunteers are needed to staff the on-campus Purple Pantry, to accept online and in-person orders of pantry items, to organize donations of food & hygiene items, and to assist pantry users in selecting and picking up food items.  Must be fun, welcoming, and kind. Retail experience a plus, but not required. Must be available during some of these weekly shifts: Monday 11-3 p.m., Tues 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Wed 1-5 p.m., Thurs: Noon-4 p.m., Friday 4-7 p.m. Contact Helen [email protected] or Kim Castillo [email protected]. Location: Campus Center Room 329.
     
  • UAlbany Purple Threads: Volunteers are needed to staff the on-campus Purple Threads, UAlbany's professional clothing closet. Volunteers will sort and organize donations of clothing and assist students in selecting items. Shifts: Monday noon-4 p.m., Wed 5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday noon-6 p.m. Contact Violette Davenport at [email protected]. Location: Campus Center Room 323.

V

  • The Vegetable Project:  Volunteer Education Garden Assistants are needed between 5-15 hours per week for Summer 2022, Fall 2022, and/or Spring 2023. Hours are flexible. Assistants will volunteer with teachers to participate in classroom programming during the day, start seeds, care for plants, lead students on touch and taste visits, and assist with garden care. Great for someone who is interested in environmental education, teaching, or who enjoys outdoor work. Requirements: enthusiasm, good communication skills, comfort with dirty hands and knees. Volunteers are needed at the Albany High School and Myers Middle School. Contact Bill Stoneman at [email protected].
     
  • VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program):  We’re always looking for individuals who would like to help prepare tax returns, answer phones, make appointments and more. The Average volunteer commitment is two to four hours per week from Mid-January to April 15. Volunteers come from all types of backgrounds and professions. Don’t think you have to be an accountant to be a successful volunteer. Our volunteers are offered a no-cost, comprehensive training program that will prepare you to take the IRS certification test. Contact Andrew Kochian, VITA Program Director, at [email protected].

W

  • The West Hill Refugee Welcome Center (RWC) seeks volunteers to help with Tuesday and Thursday morning Playgroup sessions. We watch kids, ages 2-6, in our backroom while their moms and dads take English language classes. Location: You can take Route 11 or 12 from Collins Circle with a 10 minute walk to the RWC at 104 Ontario St, Albany, NY 12206. If you're interested, please contact our Program Coordinator, Kasey Jacob, at [email protected].
     
  • Whiskers Animal Benevolent League: We are a free roaming cat shelter that provides a home for over 100 cats. Volunteers are asked to feed and clean up after the residents. Scooping litter pans, laundry, sweeping and moping floors. Of course trying to help socialize our shyer cats too!  Contact Barbara at [email protected] or 518-312-3569.
     
  • Wildwood Programs, Inc.: Variety of remote/virtual volunteers are needed, such as serving as a social media ambassador, making home-sewn masks, building and installing waist-high garden beds, or teaching a virtual class for Wildwood adults about a topic you are passionate about, such as music, cooking, or art. Contact Amy Lesienfelder at [email protected] or by phone at 518-248-0026.
     
  • Wizard's Wardrobe: Variety of volunteers needed for this after school one-on-one reading program, including tutors, library assistants, office assistants, social media coordination, and more. Training is required for all tutors. Location: 20 Rensselaer Street, Albany, NY 12202. If you’d like to volunteer, call us at 518-414-4978 and fill out the Volunteer Application and email [email protected].

 

X, Y, Z

  • No open positions.
Virtual or Outdoor Volunteer Projects
Partner Organizations Which Are NOT Taking Volunteer Applications
  • Albany County Sheriff's Office
  • Capital District Psychiatric Center - Office of Mental Health
  • Club Fed Child Care Center, operated by Victory Child Care, Inc.
  • Community Hospice
  • Eddy Village Green Nursing Home
  • Emergency Overflow Shelter -- Capital Area Council of Churches (CACC)
  • New York Association for the Education of Young Children (NYAEYC)
  • New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) Capital Region
  • NYS OGS Curatorial & Visitor Services
  • NYS Senior Action Council
  • UAlbany Department of Art and Art History
  • UAlbany Office of University Events
Things to Consider

Students are responsible for finding the non-profit or public organization where they will volunteer for  35, 60 or 100 hours for RSSW credit. The resources above are useful in assisting students in identifying CPSP nonprofit and public partners for volunteer opportunities. Students are permitted to volunteer virtually, in-person, or a hybrid of both for RSSW credit.

No car? No problem. Find transportation to your service site. Riding on the CDTA is free with your UAlbany ID. Or you can find a virtual opportunity to volunteer from home.

Become a Partner Organization

CPSP has over 500 non-profit and public organizations locally that are eligible to supervise UAlbany volunteers earning credit through the RSSW courses.  

Our community partners must be registered 501c3 non-profit organizations or public organizations. They must have a bricks and mortar location and be able to provide  35,  60 or 100 volunteer hours per student per semester.

Students can also participate at locations close to their home, given the above criteria is met by their organization. Any community partner who has an idea for a collaborative partnership with UAlbany can speak with a CPSP staff member to discuss possibilities!

COVID UPDATE

We know that your organization's volunteer needs may be in flux due to the health crisis. We do not know what the upcoming semester will bring, but we know how important it is to have strong campus-community relationships with our partners, especially during a pandemic!

We are promoting virtual volunteer/internship opportunities whenever possible. We are allowing UAlbany students to complete in-person volunteer positions for RSSW credit if they feel safe doing so, wear masks, and comply with social distancing guidelines.

Sites offering in-person opportunities must take reasonable and appropriate measures to protect the health and safety of student participants, including following all state and local health protocols and providing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for student participants.

Let us know if you need virtual volunteers! We are compiling a list of virtual/remote community service opportunities for RSSW credit, such as social media coordination, website development, or special projects.  Here are some resources that may help as you consider what a remote or virtual experience may entail.

Please contact Sheri Stevens or Jenny Horn if you have a remote volunteer project or would like assistance with recruiting volunteers this semester.

Also, please contact us if you are *not* accepting in-person volunteers for this semester, and we will temporarily take you off the list so students do not contact you looking for a volunteer position.

Community Service Fair

The Community Service Fair is traditionally held every semester, in October and March. Partners table on the Uptown Campus, introducing students to volunteer opportunities in the community. There is no cost to attend, but registration it required.

Once you are an official CPSP partner you will automatically be invited to the fair each semester. Contact us if you want assistance in recruiting volunteers!

For Students

As a UAlbany student, you will have the opportunity to meet representatives from 50+ of our partner organizations and find ways that you can engage in meaningful service for academic credit.

For Partners

If you are one of our partner organizations and would like to join us at the either the Fall or Spring CPSP Fair, please fill out the RSVP form. We will reserve a complimentary 6 foot table and 2 chairs on your behalf, and provide you with coffee and pastries. You should bring flyers and promotional materials to share with prospective volunteers, along with candy or small give-aways (optional but always appreciated by our students!). This is a great way to recruit new talent that fits the needs of your organization!

Contact: Sheri Stevens. Director of CPSP, or Jenny Leighty Horn, Assistant Director of CPSP at [email protected] or 518-442-5683 to reserve a table at the Fair or if you have additional questions.