Community & Public Service Program Volunteer Opportunities

UAlbany students enrolled in the Community & Public Service Program (CPSP) are responsible for finding the non-profit or public organization where they will volunteer for 35, 60 or 100 hours for RSSW credit.  

Use the resources below to identify CPSP’s nonprofit and public partners for volunteer opportunities. You may volunteer virtually, in-person or a hybrid of both for RSSW credit.  

This page is a great way to start your search and find partners’ contact information. CPSP staff are also available to help with the search process. Stop by the CPSP Office (Social Science 112) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday for drop-in assistance.

Need to fulfill additional hours? You can discover even more volunteer opportunities on Engage UAlbany, the university’s official online platform connecting students to campus organizations, events, and community service initiatives.

No car? No problem! Find mass transit to your service site. Riding CDTA and UAlbany buses is free with your UAlbany ID. Or you can find a virtual opportunity to volunteer from anywhere.

Note: Opportunity details are subject to change. Please confirm the latest schedule, application process and requirements with the organization’s listed Primary Contact before registering. 

 

Locations
Nature of Work
Time Commitment
Transportation

7 Cups

Location: Virtual

Provide texted mental health support
About

7 Cups

About this opportunity:
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.

Website

Academic Progression and Success (APS) Social Media Volunteer

Location: On Campus

Create social media content and promote APS programs, events, and student resources
About

Academic Progression and Success (APS) Social Media Volunteer

About this opportunity:
The Office of Academic Progression and Success (APS) is seeking enthusiastic undergraduate students to serve as Social Media Volunteers. This opportunity allows students to support campus initiatives while gaining valuable experience in marketing, communications, event promotion, and student outreach.

Responsibilities include:
· Create and share engaging content across APS social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, and Outlook communications.
· Help promote APS programs, services, workshops, and campus events to increase student awareness and participation.
· Attend academic workshops, skills courses, and other APS events to capture photos and short videos highlighting student success and support resources.
· Engage with students online by monitoring and responding to comments, messages, and mentions in a professional and timely manner.
· Assist with connecting students to APS staff and resources, helping to foster a welcoming and supportive campus environment.
· Collaborate with campus partners to expand the visibility of APS services throughout the university community.
· Stay informed about social media trends and best practices to help enhance content reach and effectiveness.
· Ensure all content and communications reflect university standards and policies.

Benefits:
· Develop professional skills in social media management, marketing, communications, and event promotion.
· Build leadership and teamwork experience while supporting fellow students.
· Contribute to initiatives that promote academic success and student well-being across campus.
· Earn community service hours while making a positive impact on the UAlbany community.

This opportunity is ideal for students interested in communications, marketing, higher education, student affairs, digital media, or community engagement.

Primary Contact:
Raven Scott
Academic Completion Coach
Taconic 361
(518) 442-3943
[email protected]

Location:
Taconic 380 - University at Albany Uptown Campus

Website

Adaptive Sports at Mount Snow

Location: Off Campus

Teach adaptive skiing and snowboarding
About

Adaptive Sports at Mount Snow

About this opportunity:
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-plus skier or snowboarder. Volunteers needed at Mount Snow mid-week or on the weekends. You can earn lift tickets for your volunteer time!

Primary Contact: 
[email protected] 

Location:
Mount Snow, Vermont

Website

Albany Barn Inc.

Location: Off Campus, Virtual

Support arts marketing and gallery upkeep
About

Albany Barn Inc.

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Tori Abdelmagid
[email protected] 

Haylie Dixon
[email protected]
518-935-4858

Location:
56 Second St, Albany, NY 12210

Website

Albany County Crime Victim & Sexual Violence Center

Location: Off Campus

Staff 24-hour sexual assault crisis hotline
About

Albany County Crime Victim & Sexual Violence Center

About this opportunity:
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. Complete a Volunteer Application.

Primary Contact:
Karen Ziegler, Volunteer Coordinator
518-447-7100
[email protected] 

Location:
112 State Street, Albany, NY

Website

Albany County Medical Reserves Corps

Location: Off Campus

Support public health emergency response
About

Albany County Medical Reserves Corps

About this opportunity:
Albany County Department of Health volunteer corps that trains clinical and non-clinical volunteers to staff Point of Dispensing sites during a public health emergency. Non-medical volunteers assist with registration, data entry, interpretation and crowd control; licensed professionals serve in clinical roles. Registration is through New York State's ServNY system.

Primary Contact:
Sara Lubera, MRC Coordinator
[email protected]
518-447-4610

Location:
Albany County Department of Health, Albany, NY
 

Website

Albany Damien Center

Location: Off Campus

Assist with grounds, meals and front desk
About

Albany Damien Center

About this opportunity:
Our resource center is designed to improve health, reduce stress and increase the quality of life in a supportive atmosphere for individuals and families living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Volunteers needed as grounds workers (7 to 11 a.m.), smart meal drivers (10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Thursday), cleaners (6:45 to 8:45 a.m.), event tabling, front desk & living room hosts (8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday) and more. If you enjoy pets, we need volunteers to assist with transporting pets and assisting at the pet food bank.
 

Primary Contact:
Sarah Conley
[email protected]
518-449-7119 x112 
[email protected]
 

Location:
728 Madison Ave #100, Albany, NY 12208

Website

Albany Guardian Society

About

Albany Guardian Society

Primary Contact:
Mary Moller
[email protected]
518-432-2140

Location:
12 Corporate Woods Boulevard, Albany, NY 12211

Website

Albany Guardian Society

Help seniors one-on-one with their devices
About

Albany Guardian Society

About this opportunity:
Founded in 1852, one of the region's oldest charitable foundations, working to improve the lives of older adults, their families and caregivers through information, education and roughly 150 classes a year. Volunteers serve as Digital Navigators helping seniors one-on-one with devices, email, the internet and photos, or assist as Social Media Coordinator and Project Assistant.

Primary Contact:
Mary Moller
[email protected]
(518) 434-2140

Location:
12 Corporate Woods Boulevard, Albany, NY 12211

Website

Albany Housing Coalition Inc.

Location: Off Campus

Assist homeless veterans facing housing loss
About

Albany Housing Coalition Inc.

About this opportunity:
Offers rapid-response assistance to Homeless Veterans and those at imminent risk of losing their housing. In-person volunteers needed. 

Primary Contact:
Lee Vartigian
[email protected]
518-694-0640

Website

Albany Institute of Art & History

Location: Off Campus

Assist museum visitor and shop services
About

Albany Institute of Art & History

About this opportunity:
Volunteers needed as a Visitor Services Assistant, Family Program Education Assistant (required: Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and School Visitor Education Assistant: Egyptology Exhibit. General education volunteer tasks may also include assisting in Family Saturday programming or assisting youth during school visit field trips, materials preparation, adding educational programs to local event websites or social media, 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, directing phone calls, and directing guests to the galleries. Location easily accessible on CDTA. 

Paid work study opportunities of $17.50/hour available to those who are eligible for Federal Work Study; contact Dina Holmes in Financial Aid at [email protected] to confirm work study status. Contact Megan Brown at [email protected] if interested in the education assistant positions; contact Laina Brozost at [email protected] if interested in the Visitor Services Assistant position. 

Primary Contact:
Megan Brown, Manager of Education Assistants
[email protected] 

Laina Brozost, Manager of Visitor Services
[email protected] 

Location:
125 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12210

Website

Albany Medical Center

Location: Off Campus

Fill in-person hospital volunteer roles
About

Albany Medical Center

About this opportunity:
Variety of in-person volunteer options. Orientation required.

Primary Contact:
Kelly Morrone, Manager of Volunteer Services
[email protected] 
518-262-3491

Location:
43 New Scotland Avenue, Albany, NY 12208

Website

Albany Memorial Campus of Samaritan Hospital in Albany

Location: Off Campus

Support ER and outpatient hospital care
About

Albany Memorial Campus of Samaritan Hospital in Albany

About this opportunity:
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. ER volunteers are especially needed!

Primary Contact:
Amanda Weller, Volunteer Coordinator 
[email protected]
518-525-1002

Website

Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission

Location: Off Campus

Survey buckmoths across preserve trails
About

Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Jodi Nash
[email protected]
518-456-0655 ext. 1217

Location:
195 New Karner Road Suite 1, Albany, NY 12205

Website

Albany Police Athletic League (PAL)

Location: Off Campus

Supervise youth and run afterschool activities
About

Albany Police Athletic League (PAL)

About this opportunity:
Juvenile crime prevention nonprofit founded in 1988 that brings Albany youth and police together through athletics, mentoring, leadership development and career exploration. Volunteers supervise youth and facilities, develop and coordinate activities, and serve as positive role models. Programs run Monday - Friday 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturdays in spring 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Primary Contact:
Catherine
[email protected]
(518) 435-0392

Location:
VI Community Center, 844 Madison Ave, Albany, NY

Website

Albany Public Library

Location: Off Campus

Tutor K-12 students after school
About

Albany Public Library

About this opportunity:
We invite UAlbany students to join Albany Public Library as we Educate, Entertain and Empower our community by becoming a K-12 Tutor! This role offers you the opportunity to support students across various grade levels and subjects, helping them overcome academic challenges and achieve their learning goals. Monday to Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. or 4 to 7:30 p.m. Scheduled times between those hours are flexible. If you have any questions, please contact Rebecca Lubin, Head of Community Engagement.

Primary Contact: 
Rebecca Lubin
518-560-2425
[email protected] 

Location:
Various branches

Website

Alice Moore Black Arts and Cultural Center

Location: Off Campus

Support arts exhibits and community programming
About

Alice Moore Black Arts and Cultural Center

About this opportunity:
Community-based arts and cultural center in Albany's South End, founded by the late Dr. Alice Green. The center hosts exhibits, a Black History film series, Juneteenth programming, a weekly writing space and community conversations centered on the local Black experience.

The Alice Moore Black Arts & Cultural Center (AMBACC) is seeking college interns and volunteers who can commit approximately 7–8 hours per week to support our arts, cultural, youth, and community programming in Albany.

We are especially interested in students with backgrounds or interests in:

  • Business & Management – administrative support, program operations, organization, data entry, and special projects
  • Marketing & Communications – social media, content creation, outreach, email marketing, flyers, and promotion
  • Arts & Theater – theater programming, visual arts activities, cultural programs, workshops, and special events
  • Events & Community Engagement – event preparation, volunteer coordination, community outreach, registration, and on-site support
  • Youth Programming – assisting with leadership, entrepreneurship, arts, chess, and other activities for middle and high school students

Students will have an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with a community-based cultural organization while supporting programs that serve youth, families, artists, and the greater Albany community.

Primary Contact:
Omar Cunningham, Program Director
[email protected] 

General Contact & Website:
Phone: +838-250-9009 
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.alicemoorecenter.org

Location:
135 South Pearl Street, Albany, NY, 12202

Website

Alliance for Clean Energy NY

Location: Virtual

Assist with virtual admin and marketing
About

Alliance for Clean Energy NY

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Deb Peck Kelleher
[email protected]
 518-432-1405
 

Website

American College of Physicians

Location: Virtual

Create social media and communication materials
About

American College of Physicians

About this opportunity:
Communication Interns are needed to create social media content, assist with promotional content, design & prepare communication materials for members, and assist with administrative tasks. The NYS Chapter of American College of Physicians is a not-for-profit professional membership organization that includes approximately 12,000 internal medicine specialists. Flexible work hours; must attend weekly staff meetings on zoom on Tuesdays 10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. If interested, please email a resume and cover letter to Loretta Ponesse at [email protected]. Subject Line: NYACP Communications Intern Position.

Primary Contact:
Loretta Ponesse
 [email protected] 
 

Website

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Location: Off Campus

Support suicide prevention outreach programs
About

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

About this opportunity:
Capital Region: Variety of volunteer opportunities available. Please fill out the Volunteer Interest Application then contact Missy Stolfi.

Primary Contact:
Missy Stolfi
[email protected]
518-791-1544
 

Website

American Red Cross of Northeast NY

Location: Off Campus, Virtual

Staff blood drives as ambassador
About

American Red Cross of Northeast NY

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Holly Brunow
[email protected]
518-419-3529

Cortney Shatraw
[email protected]
(518) 458-8111

Location:
33 Everett Rd, Albany, NY 12205
 

Website

Baby Institute (The)

Location: Off Campus

Assist Saturday early-literacy workshops for families
About

Baby Institute (The)

About this opportunity:
Albany parenting-education nonprofit, launched in 2010 and modeled on the Harlem Children's Zone Baby College, helping parents of children aged 0-3 build early literacy at home. The core program is a nine-week Saturday workshop offered three times a year, where parents attend sessions while children take part in literacy and play activities.

Primary Contact:
Noelene Smith
[email protected]
(518) 806-9453

Location:
Tony Clement Center for Education, 395 Elk St, Albany, NY 12206

Website

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region

Location: Off Campus

Mentor a young person one-to-one
About

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region

About this opportunity:
Mentoring nonprofit serving Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties since 1964, matching youth aged 6 to 18 with adult volunteer mentors. Matches meet about twice a month plus a weekly call, averaging roughly ten hours monthly, with a one-year minimum commitment. Volunteers must have their own vehicle, a valid driver's license and insurance.

Primary Contact:
Cierra Daubitz
[email protected]
(518) 862-1250

Location:
The Blake Annex, 1 Steuben Place, Albany, NY 12207

Website

Black and Latino Achievers Program (YMCA)

Location: Off Campus

Mentor Black and Latino youth achievers
About

Black and Latino Achievers Program (YMCA)

About this opportunity:
The Black and Latino Achievers program offers a unique opportunity to empower Black and Latino youth, helping them to realize their full potential, become community leaders, and make meaningful contributions to society. The program provides academic support, mentorship, leadership development, and community/civic engagement to equip participants with the skills, confidence, and resources needed to succeed academically, personally, and professionally. As a college achiever,  you will also receive exclusive benefits such as professional development, career guidance, and networking opportunities, and you will be mentored by an adult achiever while mentoring a teen. The main criterion is that you are a consistent, committed, and caring individual seeking to support our youth and teens. Teen sites meet weekly on various days, usually from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m. You can select the site that works best with your schedule. All program site schedules are listed on the application, and most are accessible by public transportation. 

Primary Contact:
Abigail Gomes
[email protected] 
(518) 649-6528
 

Website

BOTS (Bring on the Spectrum)

Location: Off Campus

Provide 1:1 support in sensory gym
About

BOTS (Bring on the Spectrum)

About this opportunity:
BOTS is a community space that offers social, recreational and lifestyle activities for neurodiverse and neurotypical individuals of all ages & all abilities. We're looking for student interns to serve as a Sensory Gym Friend to provide 1:1 connection with participants in the gym area to provide respite to caregivers, with flexible hours Mon-Thursday from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. or weekends 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Youth Club Co-Leaders are needed for monthly club meetings, typically 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. Mon-Thurs or weekends between 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. for a variety of interests such as the Pokémon Club, Kindness Club or Lego Club. We're also looking for Marketing/Communication Assistants to provide general administrative support, marketing, and event planning.

Primary Contact:
Lisa Audi
[email protected] 
[email protected] 
[email protected] 
(518) 641-1971

Location:
71 Fuller Rd # 6, Albany, NY 12205
 

Website

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area

Location: Off Campus

Mentor, tutor, or coach local youth
About

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Soozey Walensky
518-774-3490
[email protected] 
(518) 462-5528

Location:
21 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY 12210
 

Website

Boys and Girls Club of Albany (Lyricism 101 Music Volunteers)

Location: Off Campus

Teach music via mobile studio program
About

Boys and Girls Club of Albany (Lyricism 101 Music Volunteers)

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Lorenzo 
[email protected] 
518-462-5528
Soozey Walensky 
[email protected]
(518) 462-5528

Location:
21 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY 12210
 

Website

CanCode Communities

Location: Off Campus

Build spreadsheets to track program metrics
About

CanCode Communities

About this opportunity:
(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. 

Primary Contact:
Rachel Sheridan
[email protected]
518-238-6808
 

Website

Capital City Rescue Mission

Location: Off Campus

Tutor, translate, or serve at mission
About

Capital City Rescue Mission

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Hope Smith, Volunteer Coordinator
518-462-0459 ext. 237
[email protected] 

Location:
259 S Pearl St, Albany, NY 12202
 

Website

Capital District Latinos

Location: Off Campus

Support Latinx health, food, and ESL programs
About

Capital District Latinos

About this opportunity:
Capital District LATINOS! An organization open to ALL students and all majors dedicated to advancing the success of the local Latinx population and all communities through health education, food pantry, ESL classes, cultural empowerment events and more. Apply to Volunteer! 

Primary Contact:
Cassie Andrusz-Ho Ching 
[email protected]

Derek Lawrence
[email protected]
[email protected]
(518) 801-9440

Location:
160 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12206
 

Website

Capital Repertory Theatre

Usher or bartend at theater events
About

Capital Repertory Theatre

About this opportunity:
Volunteers needed as ushers, bartenders, and on the Hospitality Team. Complete the Volunteer Application and the Volunteer pledge form.

Location:
251 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207
 

Website

Capital Roots

Location: Off Campus, Virtual

Support urban farms and food access
About

Capital Roots

About this opportunity:
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. Students can gain experience working on special events, social media, database & IT, as well as supporting our Produce Project, community gardens, and urban forestry programs. We’re excited to connect students with meaningful work experience in the nonprofit sector. More information about our internship positions is available here: https://www.capitalroots.org/interns/. Group volunteer projects are available as well! 

Primary Contact:
Tami Sheiffer, Volunteer Coordinator
[email protected]
518-274-8685
 

Website

Castle Island Bilingual Montessori

Location: Off Campus, Virtual

Support remote marketing and fundraising projects
About

Castle Island Bilingual Montessori

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Diane Nickerson
518-533-9838
[email protected] 
 

Website

Catholic Charities CC MOVE Volunteers

Location: Off Campus

Support remote marketing and fundraising projects
About

Catholic Charities CC MOVE Volunteers

About this opportunity:
Volunteers needed to assist in the packaging and distribution of food. Volunteers are asked to arrive at 8:15 a.m. for morning distributions and 4:30 p.m. 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. 

Primary Contact:
Abbie Terwilliger
518-453-6650
[email protected] 
 

Website

Catskill Animal Sanctuary

Location: Off Campus

Care for rescued farm animals
About

Catskill Animal Sanctuary

About this opportunity:
A 120-acre farmed animal sanctuary founded in 2001, providing lifelong refuge to rescued cows, pigs, sheep, goats, horses and poultry, alongside public education programming and guided tours from April through October.

Primary Contact:
Sam Moon
[email protected]
(845) 336-8447

Location:
316 Old Stage Rd, Saugerties, NY 12477

Website

Center for Law and Justice

Assist criminal justice advocacy and education
About

Center for Law and Justice

About this opportunity:
Albany advocacy organization founded in 1985 by Dr. Alice Green, working on criminal justice reform, community education and civil rights for people affected by the justice system. It also operates the Alice Moore Black Arts and Cultural Center.

Primary Contact:
Ta-Sean Murdock
[email protected]
(518) 427-8361

Location:
220 Green Street, NY 12202

Website

City Mission of Schenectady

Serve meals and support shelter guests
About

City Mission of Schenectady

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Nicole Amedore
518-346-2275
[email protected]

Selena Robertson
[email protected] 

Location:
425 Hamilton St, Schenectady, NY 12305
 

Website

City of Albany Dept of Recreation

Location: Off Campus

Assist with city recreation programming
About

City of Albany Dept of Recreation

About this opportunity:
City of Albany department running recreation programming, youth sports, community centers and seasonal activities for city residents.

Primary Contact:
Joe Johnson
[email protected]
(518) 434-5703
 

Website

City of Albany Office of Cultural Affairs

Location: Off Campus

Support city arts fairs and festivals
About

City of Albany Office of Cultural Affairs

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Andre Cowan
[email protected]
518-434-5416

Keith Morales
[email protected]
(646) 702-8486

Location:
24 Eagle Street, Albany, NY 12207
 

Website

Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc / Bright Horizons

Engage seniors in Alzheimer's day program
About

Colonie Senior Service Centers, Inc / Bright Horizons

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Susan Napierski
[email protected]
518-459-7967

Sue Napierski
(518) 459-2857 ext. 303

Location:
6 Winners Circle #1, Albany, NY 12205
 

Website

Columbia County Sanctuary Movement

Assist legal clinics, translation, and transportation
About

Columbia County Sanctuary Movement

About this opportunity:
Immigrant-led organization pairing direct services with community organizing, supporting immigrants and allies across Columbia County. Volunteers assist with legal clinics, translation, transportation, web design and grassroots fundraising.

Primary Contact:
Haley Powers
[email protected]
(518) 755-4042

Website

Connect Center for Youth

Location: Off Campus

Lead STEAM and enrichment for youth
About

Connect Center for Youth

About this opportunity:
Volunteers are needed for our afterschool STEAM program for grades 6-12 in the fall on Tues, Wed, and Thurs afternoons from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. in areas such as coding, LEGO League, music, art, and more. You can also help provide healthy weekend meals to students. Join us Thursdays 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. or Fridays from 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m. 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.

Primary Contact:
[email protected]
518-687-1999

Location:
49 Johnston Ave, Cohoes, NY 12047
 

Website

Daughters of Sarah Sr. Community

Location: Off Campus

Visit and assist senior residents
About

Daughters of Sarah Sr. Community

About this opportunity:
Nonprofit Jewish senior community on a 40-acre campus offering skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and adult day services. Volunteers support residents through activities, companionship and the on-site gift shop.

Primary Contact:
Mary Roy
[email protected]
(518) 689-0453

Location:
180 Washington Ave Ext, Albany, NY 12203
 

Website

Delmar-Bethlehem EMS Program (DBEMS)

Location: Off Campus

Ride ambulance shifts as certified EMT
About

Delmar-Bethlehem EMS Program (DBEMS)

About this opportunity:
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 6 p.m. to midnight and midnight to 6 a.m. 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. 

Primary Contact:
Lt. Susan Madison-Antenucci
[email protected]
518-859-6754

Ashley Cicchinelli
[email protected]
(518) 355-5707

Location:
114 Adams St, Delmar, NY 12054
 

Website

DREAM Program

Location: Off Campus

Youth mentoring and program coordinator roles
About

DREAM Program

About this opportunity:
The DREAM Program is a nonprofit youth service organization working to close the opportunity gap for at-promise youth through no-cost mentoring, enrichment, and adventure programs. We are recruiting for two roles working with youth at the Robert Whalen Homes:

1. Mentor Coordinator (AmeriCorps Leadership Position):
A 300-hour AmeriCorps term (about 15 hours/week). This involves organizing mentors, outreach, and activities. We are looking for 2 coordinators for this position.

2. Volunteer Mentors:
College student volunteers who show up consistently and become trusted adults in young people’s lives. DREAM uses "Village Mentoring," a mix of one-on-one mentoring and group experiences (games, conversations, adventures).

Time commitment for Volunteer Mentors (3–5 hours/week):

Weekly mentor planning meeting (~1 hour)

Weekly mentoring program (~3 hours on a consistent weekday)

Occasional special events, including trips, retreats, and celebrations

Location:
Robert Whalen Homes
295 Colonie St, Albany, NY 12210

Primary Contact:
Mary Beth Fowler, Sr. Youth Service Director
[email protected] 
(516) 200-1084

Website

Ellis Medicine

Location: Off Campus

Assist patients and staff across hospital campuses
About

Ellis Medicine

About this opportunity:
Community teaching hospital system serving the Capital Region, with campuses in Schenectady and Niskayuna. A wide range of volunteer positions is available seven days a week. Volunteers are asked to commit a minimum of four hours per week for at least six months.

Primary Contact:
Ella Bendon
[email protected] 
(518) 243-4009

Location:
1101 Nott Street, Schenectady, NY
 

Website

FOCUS Churches of Albany

Location: Off Campus

Cook, serve, and bag groceries
About

FOCUS Churches of Albany

About this Opportunity:
Coalition of Albany congregations running the Breakfast Club hot-meal program and two interfaith food pantries. Volunteers greet guests, cook and serve breakfast, bag groceries, register pantry guests and restock storage.

Primary Contact:
Belinda Quaye
[email protected]
(518) 443-0460

Location:
275 State St, Albany, NY 12210

 

Website

Food Pantries for the Capital District

Location: Off Campus

Distribute produce at mobile outreach sites
About

Food Pantries for the Capital District

About this Opportunity:
Coalition of roughly 75 member food pantries across Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties, providing funding, food purchasing and delivery, and coordination. Volunteers staff mobile produce distributions, set up and break down outreach tables, and assist guests.

Primary Contact:
Curtis LeClair
[email protected]
(518) 458-1167

Location:
32 Essex St, Albany, NY 12206
 

Website

Girls On The Run

Location: Off Campus

Coach a team or serve as a running buddy
About

Girls On The Run

About this opportunity:
Girls on the Run Capital Region delivers an experience-based curriculum built around running for girls in grades 3-8 across Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga and Schenectady counties. Volunteers coach teams during the fall and spring seasons or serve as running buddies and event crew at the celebratory 5K that closes each season.

Primary Contact:
Sarah Syden
[email protected]
(518) 635-0828

Location:
18 Computer Dr W, Colonie, NY 12205

Website

Grassroot Givers

Location: Off Campus

Sort donations and staff the community store
About

Grassroot Givers

About this Opportunity:
Albany nonprofit connecting donated goods with neighbors who need them, operating a community store and a free book program. The organization emphasizes giving with dignity to families working to improve their circumstances.

Primary Contact:
Stacey Erwell
info@grassrootgivers
(518) 599-5157

Location:
522 Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12203
 

Website

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Location: Off Campus

Move, clean, and organize donated goods
About

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

About this Opportunity:
Habitat for Humanity Capital District's retail outlet, selling donated building materials, furniture and appliances to fund affordable homeownership. Volunteers work in the warehouse moving, cleaning and organizing donations. Store hours are Wednesday through Friday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays are the greatest need. Orientation and closed-toe shoes required.

Primary Contact:
Dave Harrison
[email protected]
(518) 275-6638

Location:
71 Fuller Rd, Albany, NY 12205

 

Website

Hunger Free America

Location: Virtual

Verify & Update hunger hotline resources
About

Hunger Free America

About this opportunity:
Hunger Free America is seeking volunteers for their Virtual Data Detective project to verify food resources information for the USDA Hunger Hotline. Volunteers place calls to food providers, leave voicemails, and use a virtual portal to update the database. This is a self-guided, virtual role that can be done on your own schedule with no minimum time commitment. Participants will need a phone and a computer.

To get started, please submit the Data Detective volunteer application.

Volunteers can also optionally register for Fridays for Good virtual group sessions, which are held on the third Friday of each month (with few exceptions!) from 1PM-2PM EST. In the session you'll receive background information, training and support to verify and update listings of food pantries, soup kitchens and SNAP/WIC offices around the country. This information is used to direct callers to our Hunger Hotline to resources. You'll be given unique listings to check, by calling the number and doing web-based research. You'll need a computer, phone and pen and paper for the task.

Please review the Task Guide for more information.

Explore More Roles:
Interested in other ways to help? Browse all available opportunities nationwide on the Hunger Free America volunteer directory.

Primary Contact: 
[email protected] 

Location: 
Virtual

Flyer:
 

Data Detectives virtual volunteer flyer. All text details are provided in the description on this page.


 

Website

In Our Own Voices

Location: Off Campus

Help run Pride and community events
About

In Our Own Voices

About this opportunity:
Albany organization strengthening and advocating for LGBTQ people of color and their communities across upstate New York. Volunteers support Black and Latina Gay Pride events in June and a range of events through the summer and fall.

Primary Contact:
Tandra LaGrone
[email protected]
(518) 432-4188

Location:
245 Lark St., Albany, NY 12210

Website

Jezreel

Location: Off Campus

Sort and pack donated humanitarian supplies
About

Jezreel

About this opportunity:
Faith-based humanitarian aid nonprofit founded in 1996 that ships donated medical supplies, food, clothing and hygiene products to more than 40 countries and supplies local shelters, food pantries and veterans' organizations. Volunteers sort and pack donations; groups are welcome.

Primary Contact:
Doreen Guadalupe
[email protected]
(518) 438-4370

Location:
10 Interstate Ave, Albany, NY 12205

Website

Legal Hand

Answer calls with legal information and referrals
About

Legal Hand

Website

Liberty Partnership Program--Rising Stars

Location: On Campus

Tutor and mentor grade 6-12 students
About

Liberty Partnership Program--Rising Stars

About this opportunity:
UAlbany School of Education program supporting Albany City School District students in grades 6-12 with tutoring, mentoring, college preparation and workforce development. Lunch programming runs Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Albany middle schools and Albany High School; afterschool programming runs Monday - Thursday 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Draper Hall on the downtown campus. Federal Work Study students may be eligible for paid positions.

Primary Contact:
Nyra Alexander
[email protected]
(518) 442-5422

Location:
Draper Hall - Downtown Campus

Website

Literacy Volunteers Capital Region

Location: Off Campus

Tutor adults in reading, writing, and English
About

Literacy Volunteers Capital Region

About this opportunity:
Adult literacy organization, formerly Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County, serving roughly 250 adult learners a year across Albany, Rensselaer and Schenectady counties. Trained volunteer tutors provide one-to-one and small-group instruction in reading, writing and conversational English, along with math, financial and digital literacy.

Primary Contact:
Stephanie Horton
[email protected]
(518) 244-4650

Location:
65 1st St, Troy, NY 12180

Website

McKownville Fire Department

Location: Off Campus

Train and serve as a volunteer firefighter
About

McKownville Fire Department

About this opportunity:
Volunteer fire department established in 1918, providing fire prevention, protection and rescue services to the McKownville area of Albany County. The department recruits volunteer firefighters through an online join form.

Primary Contact:
Molly McGuire
[email protected]
(414) 628-8638

Location:
1250 Western Ave, Albany, NY 12203

Website

Mission Accomplished Transition Services

Location: Off Campus

Serve on event committees and intern
About

Mission Accomplished Transition Services

About this opportunity:
Nonprofit established in 2012 preparing young people for the workforce through industry-specific coaching, mentoring and sponsorship, with programming focused on fashion, construction and event planning. Volunteers serve on event committees; internships are available for students in business, social welfare, public administration and communication.

Primary Contact:
Coach Carmen Duncan
[email protected]
(518) 207-0209

Location:
430 Frankin St, Schenectady, NY 12305

Website

Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society

Location: Off Campus

Care for and socialize shelter animals
About

Mohawk & Hudson River Humane Society

About this opportunity:
Animal shelter founded in 1887 and the largest animal care facility in the Capital Region, taking in over 6,000 animals a year. Alongside sheltering and adoption it runs low-cost spay/neuter and wellness services, a pet food pantry, dog training and humane education. Volunteers contributed more than 20,000 hours last year across animal care, foster support, fundraising and outreach.

Primary Contact:
Noel Kanalley
[email protected]
(518) 434-8128

Location:
3 Oakland Ave, Menands, NY 12204

Website

Mom Starts Here

Location: Off Campus

Support new parents and sort baby items
About

Mom Starts Here

About this opportunity:
Nonprofit founded in 2016 supporting expectant and new parents across Albany, Schenectady and Rensselaer counties through pregnancy support, parenting classes, a parent hotline, community baby showers, and a baby item network and lending library.

Primary Contact:
Kyla Schmidt
[email protected]
(518) 900-5657 ext. 2

Website

Muslim Soup Kitchen Project

Location: Off Campus

Prepare and serve monthly community meals
About

Muslim Soup Kitchen Project

About this Opportunity:
Capital Region nonprofit serving monthly hot meals since 2003, distributing several hundred meals a month at shelters and partner sites across Albany, Schenectady and Troy. Volunteers cook, prepare and serve meals, drive donations, and help with food and clothing drives.

Primary Contact:
Uzma Popal
[email protected]
(518) 608-1255

Location:
322 Troy-Schenectady Rd, Latham, NY 12110


 

Website

New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) Capital Region

Protect civil liberties and monitor local protests
About

New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) Capital Region

About this opportunity:
Nonprofit civil liberties organization serving eight counties in the Capital Region, including Albany, Rensselaer and Schenectady, dedicated to protecting constitutional rights and promoting equality. Volunteers engage in grassroots advocacy, serve on the local protest monitoring team to ensure First Amendment rights are respected, or contribute specialized skills like translation, graphic design and writing to support civil rights campaigns.

Primary Contact:
Melanie Trimble
[email protected]
(518) 436-8594

Location:
41 State St, Albany, NY 12207

Website

Peaceful Acres Horses

Location: Off Campus

Provide daily care for rescued horses
About

Peaceful Acres Horses

About this opportunity:
Volunteer- and donor-supported equine welfare sanctuary providing long-term care for formerly neglected and slaughter-bound horses. Volunteers apply as Caregivers and can also take part in the Horsin' Around buddy program and Open Stable days.

Primary Contact:
Nanci Beyerl
[email protected]
(518) 347-7874

Location:
3740 Rynex Corners Rd, Pattersonville, NY 12137

Website

Planned Parenthood - Upper Hudson

Location: Off Campus

Table at outreach events and assemble care kits
About

Planned Parenthood - Upper Hudson

About this Opportunity:
Reproductive and sexual health care provider with health centers in Albany, Troy and Hudson. Volunteers support community outreach and tabling, assemble patient care kits, and take part in advocacy. All volunteers must complete a training session before participating.
 
Primary Contact:
Madeline Reilly
[email protected]
(518) 434-5678

Location:
855 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12206
 

Website

Pride Center of the Capital Region

Location: Off Campus

Set up and staff Pride Center events
About

Pride Center of the Capital Region

About this opportunity:
Founded in 1970 and the longest continuously operating LGBTQ community center in the country. Volunteer roles range from setup and breakdown at large events such as Capital Pride and the annual Gala to smaller tabling events and occasional projects around the center.

Primary Contact:
Deb Vincent
[email protected]
(518) 462-6138

Location:
32 Hudson Ave, Albany, NY 12210

Website

Radix Ecological Sustainability Center & Urban Garden

Location: Off Campus, Virtual

Tend garden and support eco outreach
About

Radix Ecological Sustainability Center & Urban Garden

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Stacy
[email protected]

Stacy Pettigrew
[email protected]
(518) 605-3256

Location:
153 Grand St, Albany, NY 12202
 

Website

Red Bookshelf (The)

Location: On Campus

Mend used books for local children
About

Red Bookshelf (The)

About this opportunity:
On-campus volunteer positions are available. You will be trained to serve as a Literacy Advocate to lead groups of up to 20 UAlbany students to mend used books that will be donated to children in need throughout the Capital Region. Volunteer orientation / training required. ON-CAMPUS EVENING SHIFT AVAILABILITY: Must be available in 3 hour shifts between 5 -10 p.m. at least 2x a week Mon through Friday in the Social Science building on the Main Campus.

Primary Contact:
Abigail ("Batgirl") Williams
[email protected]
518-210-0449

[email protected]
516-366-0535

Location:
200 Green St, Albany, NY 12202
 

Website

Refugee & Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)

Location: Off Campus

Tutor refugee children in English
About

Refugee & Immigrant Support Services of Emmaus (RISSE)

About this opportunity:
Help refugees and immigrants build new lives and thrive in the Capital Region! Volunteers needed during the day for adult education literacy programs. One-on-one tutors are also needed for homework help for the after school program between 2 p.m. - 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, especially if you are fluent in Spanish and/or other languages.

Primary Contact:
Noora Ahmed
[email protected]
518-621-2982

Location:
715 Morris Street, Albany, NY 12208

Website

Regional Food Bank & Patroon Land Farm

Sort and pack donated food items
About

Regional Food Bank & Patroon Land Farm

About this opportunity:
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. - 12 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. at our 6 Northway Lane location and from 5 p.m. - 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. 

Primary Contact:
[email protected]

Location:
6 Northway Lane / 965 Albany Shaker Road, Albany, NY
Farm: 132 Ketcham Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186
 

Website

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region

Location: Off Campus

Support families with fundraising events
About

Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Capital Region

About this opportunity:
Variety of volunteer opportunities available for individuals and groups, including fundraising support. 

Primary Contact:
Tina Woodward
[email protected]
(518) 438-2655

Location:
139 S Lake Ave, Albany, NY 12208
 

Website

Salvation Army - Albany

Location: Off Campus

Help with food distribution and meal prep
About

Salvation Army - Albany

About this opportunity:
Albany Corps of the Salvation Army, operating a food pantry serving Albany County residents, a mobile meal truck, and youth and family programs. Volunteers assist with food distribution, meal preparation and pantry operations.
 
Primary Contact:
Marie Larrinaga
[email protected]
(518) 463-6678

Location:
20 S Ferry St, Albany, NY 12202
 

Website

Salvation Army - Schenectady

Location: Off Campus

Help with food distribution and meal prep
About

Salvation Army - Schenectady

About this opportunity:
Schenectady Corps of the Salvation Army, providing emergency food assistance, meal programs and family services to Schenectady County. Volunteers assist with food distribution and meal preparation.

Primary Contact:
Jason VanTassell
[email protected]
(619) 800-9790

Location:
222 Lafayette St, Schenectady, NY 12305

 

Website

Samaritan Hospital / Albany Memorial Campus of Samaritan Hospital in Albany

Location: Off Campus

Support ER and outpatient hospital care
About

Samaritan Hospital / Albany Memorial Campus of Samaritan Hospital in Albany

About this opportunity:
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 p.m. - 8 p.m. 

Primary Contact:
Jane Norris
[email protected]
518-525-1515
 

Website

Sanctuary for Independent Media/ The Media Alliance

Location: Off Campus, Virtual

Produce radio, video, and community media
About

Sanctuary for Independent Media/ The Media Alliance

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
[email protected]
518-272-2390
 

Website

Scholastic Talent

Location: Off Campus

Instruct afterschool arts and sports programs
About

Scholastic Talent

About this opportunity:
Calling volunteers to assist with the Scholastic Talent afterschool program and school break programming in art, vocal and instrumental music, chess, sports, dance, and more! You can help with instruction, trainings, and events.  Work alongside talented professionals in different programs and fields. 

Primary Contact:
Mahyana Sanon
[email protected] 

Location:
23A Walker Way, Colonie, NY 12205
 

Website

Shaker Heritage Society

Location: Off Campus

Greet visitors at heritage museum shop
About

Shaker Heritage Society

About this opportunity:
We need volunteers to work in our museum as greeters, shop assistants, cashiers, and gift wrappers. Hours available are Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 1pm and 1pm - 4pm. Shaker Heritage Society is located at 25 Meeting House Rd, Albany, NY 12211. We are right across from Albany International Airport!

Primary Contact:
[email protected]
518-456-7890 x3

Location:
25 Meeting House Rd, Albany, NY 12211
 

Website

Sheridan Preparatory Academy - A Community School

Location: Off Campus

Tutor elementary students, staff food pantry
About

Sheridan Preparatory Academy - A Community School

About this opportunity:
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 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Location: 400 Sheridan Ave., Albany, NY 12206. Bus accessible from the Main Campus via Bus Route 12 with a 7 minute walk on Lexington Ave to 400 Sheridan Ave. Paid positions of $17.25/hour may be available for students who are eligible for Federal Work Study (contact Dina Holmes in Financial Aid to inquire about eligibility at [email protected]). For volunteering at Sheridan Prep, call 518-475-6857 and contact the Principal, Ms. Cascone, at [email protected], or Community School Site Coordinator Ms. Kimesha Austin at [email protected].

Primary Contact:
Ms. Cascone (Principal)
[email protected]
518-475-6857

Ms. Kimesha Austin
[email protected]
 

Location:
400 Sheridan Ave., Albany, NY 12206"
 

South End Children's Cafe

Location: Off Campus

Help kids with homework and dinner
About

South End Children's Cafe

About this opportunity:
Do you love children? Cooking? Or helping an after school program in a variety of ways? 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 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Or you can help in the kitchen from 3 p.m - 6:30 p.m. Mon-Thurs. Depending on your skills, you can assist with a variety of projects such as social media coordination, website design, cleaning or cooking in the kitchen, assisting with kitchen/pantry inventory, or other needs as they arise. Must be creative, fun, nice, patient and willing to learn! Location: 33 Rensselaer St, Albany, NY 12202.  If interested, please fill out our Volunteer Application. Volunteer tutors/mentors should contact [email protected]. For other positions or for paid work study positions, please contact Tracie Killar at [email protected].

Primary Contact:
 [email protected] (tutors/mentors)

Tracie Killar, [email protected]
 (518) 275-8890

Location:
33 Rensselaer St, Albany, NY 12202
 

Website

St Margarets at the Center for Disability Services

Location: Off Campus

Visit and support pediatric residents
About

St Margarets at the Center for Disability Services

About this Opportunity:
Pediatric skilled nursing facility affiliated with the Center for Disability Services, providing long-term, short-term and respite care for children and young adults with complex medical needs and disabilities.

Primary Contact:
Rachel Mead
[email protected]
(518) 591-3382

Location:
27 Hackett Blvd, Albany, NY 12208
 

Website

St. Peter's Hospital in Albany

Location: Off Campus

Fill hospital volunteer or internship roles
About

St. Peter's Hospital in Albany

About this opportunity:
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 p.m. - 8 p.m. 

Primary Contact:
Jane Norris
[email protected]
518-525-1515
(518) 525-1002

Location:
315 S Manning Blvd, Albany, NY 12208
 

Website

St. Peters Crime Victim Services

Location: Off Campus

Staff 24-hour crime victim hotline
About

St. Peters Crime Victim Services

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Elizabeth Karam, Volunteer Program Coordinator
[email protected]
518-271-3638

Location:
2215 Burdett Avenue, Troy, NY 12180
 

Website

StacheStrong

Location: On Campus

Plan brain cancer awareness campus events
About

StacheStrong

About this opportunity:
(NEW for 2025!) A nonprofit organization founded by UAlbany alumni that raises funds and awareness for brain cancer research. Volunteers will assist with planning and executing on-campus awareness events, tabling, social media outreach, and fundraising initiatives (including our annual 5K). Opportunities are flexible throughout the semester, with occasional specific dates for larger events. This is a great way to gain experience in nonprofit event planning, operations and marketing while supporting an important cause. 

Primary Contact:
[email protected] 
 

Stratton VA Hospital

Location: Off Campus

Support programs for veteran patients
About

Stratton VA Hospital

About this opportunity:
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 Jason Goman.

Primary Contact:
Jason Goman
[email protected]
518-626-5507

Location:
113 Holland Ave, Albany, NY 12208
 

Website

STRIDE Adaptive Sports

Location: Off Campus

Support adaptive sports nonprofit administration
About

STRIDE Adaptive Sports

About this opportunity:
STRIDE interns learn about non-profit management, therapeutic recreation services, business management, research in the field of adaptive sports or business administration. Applicants should have a working knowledge of office software programs and ability to work on a variety of business and administrative projects, including marketing materials, website content development, training presentations, and fundraising materials. Interest in working with individuals with disabilities and/or in a nonprofit setting are preferred. Flexible volunteer schedule Mon-Fri 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Location: 4482 NY Highway 150 West Sand Lake, NY 12196. 

Primary Contact:
Alex Brame, Program Executive Director
[email protected]
(518)-598-1279

Location:
4482 NY-150, West Sand Lake, NY 12196
 

Website

Sunhee's Community Place

Location: Off Campus

Support refugee and immigrant community programs
About

Sunhee's Community Place

About this opportunity:
Troy organization centering refugee and immigrant community members, with employment support and community programming.

Primary Contact:
Maggie McCloskey
[email protected]
(518) 272-3413

Location:
95-97 Ferry St, Troy, NY 12180

Website

Sunnyview Physical Rehab Hospital

Location: Off Campus

Visit and assist rehab hospital patients
About

Sunnyview Physical Rehab Hospital

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Joan Laviolette
[email protected]
518-386-3631

Location:
1270 Belmont Ave, Schenectady, NY 12308
 

Website

Supreem Sports USA, Inc.

Location: Off Campus

Coach youth boxing after school programs
About

Supreem Sports USA, Inc.

About this opportunity:
This organization was founded by a Team USA Boxing Bronze High Performance Clinician, Silver High Performance Coach, Level 2 Official, and Amateur athlete. Supreem Sports Mission Volunteers/Interns are needed for our after school “We Box” drop-in program grades 3–9 happening Monday–Thursday, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. at the Supreem Sports Center, 319 Hamilton Street Albany, New York 12210. We are also looking for support with our 15 to 19-year-old “Team RISE” youth competitive boxing on Mondays and Tuesdays 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. located at 17 New Scotland Avenue Albany, New York 12208, in partnership with Capital District YMCA. You can also help provide weekend support with our “Back 2 Basics” training on Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. in partnership with Trinity Alliance, located at 15 Trinity Place Albany, New York 12202. All of our program locations are accessible to the CDTA bus line.

Primary Contact:
[email protected]
518.606.9217

Location:
319 Hamilton Street, Albany, NY 12210
 

Website

Ten Broeck Mansion, Albany County Historical Association

Location: Off Campus

Clean up historic mansion garden grounds
About

Ten Broeck Mansion, Albany County Historical Association

About this opportunity:
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].

Primary Contact:
[email protected], 518-436-9826"
 

Website

Thacher State Park

Location: Off Campus

Maintain trails, remove invasive species
About

Thacher State Park

About this opportunity:
Volunteers are needed at Thacher State Park. We are calling on the local community to come out and volunteer from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. at 830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186 and come out every other Saturday at the same time. We need volunteers every Wednesdays from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. at 87 Nature Center Way, Voorheesville, NY 12186. Volunteers will be helping with general park maintenance including but not limited to gardening, trail work, and invasive species removal. The park will provide all necessary tools and personal protective equipment. We ask that volunteers come wearing work boots or hiking shoes, and clothes they do not mind getting dirty. If these volunteer hours do not work or if you have any more questions, please feel free to reach out to our volunteer coordinator Ian Evans: [email protected] or 518-390-5523. Everyone at Thacher Park is grateful for your time and volunteer work.

Primary Contact:
Ian Evans
[email protected]
518-390-5523

Location:
830 Thacher Park Road, Voorheesville, NY 12186"
 

Website

Trinity Alliance Food Pantries

Location: Off Campus

Stock and staff South End food pantries
About

Trinity Alliance Food Pantries

About this opportunity:
Trinity Alliance of the Capital Region runs emergency food pantries in Albany's South End, open five days a week with on-site pickup and advance online ordering. Volunteers help stock and staff the pantries and support mass food distribution events held twice monthly from spring through fall.

Primary Contact:
Sarah Adams
[email protected]g
(518) 449-5155 x 127

Location:
15 Trinity Place, Albany, NY 12202

Website

UAlbany Center for Excellence in Weather & Climate Analytics

Location: On Campus, Virtual

Advertise weather research via social media
About

UAlbany Center for Excellence in Weather & Climate Analytics

About this opportunity:
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 

Primary Contact:
Phil Al Annabi
[email protected] 
 

Website

UAlbany Center for Student Entrepreneurship

Location: On Campus

Support student startup launch
About

UAlbany Center for Student Entrepreneurship

About this opportunity:
UAlbany Center for Student Entrepreneurship (formerly the Blackstone Launchpad)  leads University-wide initiatives to launch successful startups and commercialize technology created by University at 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 if you are interested in volunteering or interning.

Primary Contact:
Jenny Huang
[email protected] 
 

Website

UAlbany Communications Class

Location: On Campus

Run on-campus organ donation campaign
About

UAlbany Communications Class

About this opportunity:
Attend volunteer training to prepare for the campaign, and help with running the campaign, 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. 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. 

Primary Contact:
Lin Lin
[email protected]
518-867-1511
 

UAlbany Community Outdoor Clean-up Assistant

Location: Off Campus

Pick up litter around Pine Hills
About

UAlbany Community Outdoor Clean-up Assistant

About this opportunity:
Volunteer ambassadors will pick up litter on designated streets within the Pine Hills community at least 2 hours per day on at least 3 days per 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.

Primary Contact:
Off-Campus Student Services
518-442-5501

Location:
Pine Hills, Albany, NY
 

UAlbany GO / Office of Student Activities

Location: On Campus

Create marketing content, staff campus events
About

UAlbany GO / Office of Student Activities

About this opportunity:
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.

Primary Contact:
Chris Neal
[email protected] 
 

Website

UAlbany Hillel

Location: On Campus

Assist with data entry and events
About

UAlbany Hillel

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Rabbi Nomi Manon
[email protected]
518-442-5586

Location:
Campus Center 344
 

Website

UAlbany Intensive English Language Program (IELP)

Location: On Campus

Be a conversation partner for students
About

UAlbany Intensive English Language Program (IELP)

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Susan Gorga
[email protected] 
[email protected] 
 

Website

UAlbany Juvenile Treatment Center Program

Location: Off Campus

Tutor and mentor at-risk teens
About

UAlbany Juvenile Treatment Center Program

About this opportunity:
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. Must be available Tuesdays from 2:45-5:30 at the Albany Family Court at 30 Clinton Ave, Albany, NY. Other tutoring depends on your availability: generally at least 2x per week Mon-Fri between 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. 

Primary Contact:
Jennifer Horn
[email protected]

Dr. Sharkey
[email protected] 

Location:
30 Clinton Ave, Albany, NY (Albany Family Court)
 

UAlbany Office of Sustainability

Assist with gardening and social media
About

UAlbany Office of Sustainability

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Mary Ellen Mallia
[email protected]
518-442-2601
 

Website

UAlbany PASS Mentoring

Location: On Campus

Mentor freshmen and sophomore students
About

UAlbany PASS Mentoring

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Raven Scott
[email protected] 
 

Website

UAlbany Purple Pantry

Location: On Campus

Staff on-campus food pantry shifts
About

UAlbany Purple Pantry

About this opportunity:
Student Work Study staff/volunteers 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 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 a.m. - 5 p.m., Tues 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Wed 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Thurs: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Students eligible for Federal Work Study may earn $16/hr for positions at the Purple Pantry; contact Dina Holmes at [email protected] for more information about work study positions.

Primary Contact:
Darius Fernandez
[email protected]

Dina Holmes (Work-Study Coordinator)
[email protected] 

Location:
Campus Center Room 329
 

Website

UAlbany Purple Threads

Location: On Campus

Sort donated professional clothing for students
About

UAlbany Purple Threads

About this opportunity:
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. Must be available during some of these weekly shifts: Monday 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m., Tuesday 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m., Wed 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thurs 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. Contact Julia Rassmussen at [email protected]. Students eligible for Federal Work Study may earn $16/hour for positions at the Purple Pantry; contact Dina Holmes at [email protected] for more information about work study positions.

Primary Contact:
Julia Rassmussen
[email protected]

Dina Holmes (Work-Study Coordinator)
[email protected] 

Location:
Campus Center Room 323
 

Website

UAlbany Student Press

Location: On Campus, Virtual

Write articles for student newspaper
About

UAlbany Student Press

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Sumaiya Nasir
[email protected]
 

Website

United Tenants

Assist with tenant advocacy and housing calls
About

United Tenants

About this opportunity:
United Tenants of Albany is a community-based nonprofit working to improve housing conditions and tenants' rights, responding to calls across the Capital District with a focus on low- and moderate-income Albany neighborhoods.

Primary Contact:
Canyon Ryan
[email protected]
(518) 436-8997

Location:
255 Orange St, Albany, NY 12210

Website

United Way of the Greater Capital Region

Support regional nonprofit and volunteer programs
About

United Way of the Greater Capital Region

About this opportunity:
Regional umbrella nonprofit that mobilizes funding and volunteers around basic needs, education, income stability and health. It runs the Blake Annex co-working space in downtown Albany, operates the region's VITA free tax preparation program, and hosts the unitedtovolunteer.org portal listing opportunities across dozens of local agencies.

Primary Contact:
[email protected]
(518) 456-2200

Location:
1 Steuben St, Albany, NY 12207

Website

Unity House

Location: Off Campus

Cook community meals and stock the pantry
About

Unity House

About this opportunity:
Troy-based human services agency whose Front Door site houses a food pantry, community meals, thrift store, laundry and shower facilities and housing case management, alongside domestic violence services and a children's center. Volunteers cook for community meals, stock the pantry, and help with outdoor cleanups and painting projects.

Primary Contact:
Fran Beaudoin
[email protected]
(518) 274-2607

Location:
2431 Sixth Avenue Troy, New York 12180

Website

US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants

Location: Off Campus

Set up apartments and mentor arriving families
About

US Committee for Refugees and Immigrants

About this opportunity:
The Albany field office of USCRI has been the region's primary refugee resettlement agency since 2005, working with newcomers arriving primarily from Afghanistan, Burma, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Iraq and Syria. Volunteers sort donations, deliver food and set up apartments for arriving families. With a background check, volunteers can also drive clients to appointments, teach English and mentor.

Primary Contact:
Sandon Mims
[email protected]
(518) 459-1790

Location:
155 Washington Ave, Albany, NY

Website

Vegetable Project

Location: Off Campus

Assist school garden education programs
About

Vegetable Project

About this opportunity:
Volunteer Education Garden Assistants are needed between 5 - 15 hours per week for Summer, Fall , and/or Spring. 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.

Primary Contact:
Bill Stoneman
[email protected] 

Location:
Albany High School and Myers Middle School, Albany, NY
 

Website

Village Community Resource Center

Location: Off Campus

Support a growing community resource center in Albany’s South End
About

Village Community Resource Center

About this opportunity: 
Volunteers are needed to support a growing community resource center in Albany’s South End. Volunteers can assist with youth programming and mentoring, community outreach, educational activities, event planning, administrative support, grant research, fundraising, social media and communications, and men’s/community programming. We are especially interested in students who want to develop meaningful relationships with the community and take ownership of projects rather than simply assist with one-time events. Flexible weekday afternoon/evening and occasional Friday/Saturday opportunities are available.

Primary Contact:
RaQuad Graham
[email protected] 

Location: 
220 Second Ave., Albany, NY 12202

Flyer: 
 

Flyer for the Village Community Resource Center volunteer opportunities. All text details are provided in the description on this page.

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program)

Location: Off Campus

Prepare tax returns for community members
About

VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program)

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Andrew Kochian, VITA Program Director
[email protected] 
 

Website

WAMC - Public Radio

Assist with membership drives and station events
About

WAMC - Public Radio

About this opportunity:
Northeast Public Radio, the NPR member station based in Albany, serving a multi-state listening area with news, interview and cultural programming. Volunteers typically support membership drives, events and station operations.

Primary Contact:
Deena Salzman
[email protected]
(518) 465-5233 ext 100

Location:
318 Central Ave, Albany, NY 12206

Website

West Hill Refugee Welcome Center (RWC)

Location: Off Campus

Watch kids during parents' English classes
About

West Hill Refugee Welcome Center (RWC)

About this opportunity:
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 12 from Collins Circle with a 10 minute walk to the RWC at 104 Ontario St, Albany, NY 12206.

Primary Contact:
Kasey Jacob, Program Coordinator
[email protected]

Jane Mitchell
[email protected]
518-937-6253

Location:
104 Ontario Street, Albany, NY 12206"
 

Website

Whiskers Animal Benevolent League

Location: Off Campus

Feed and clean up after shelter cats
About

Whiskers Animal Benevolent League

About this opportunity:
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! For more information, fill out the Volunteer Application. 

Primary Contact:
[email protected] 
 

Website

Wildwood Programs, Inc.

Location: Off Campus

Support remote programs for Wildwood adults
About

Wildwood Programs, Inc.

About this opportunity:
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. 

Primary Contact:
Amy Lesienfelder
[email protected]
518-248-0026
 

Website

Wizard's Wardrobe

Location: Off Campus

Tutor an elementary student in reading
About

Wizard's Wardrobe

About this opportunity:
Free one-to-one afterschool tutoring program for elementary students in Albany's South End, focused on reading, writing and problem solving with monthly STEM projects. Tutors work with the same child across the school year in 90-minute sessions, one or two afternoons a week between 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., after completing a two-day training.

Primary Contact:
Carol Green
[email protected]
(518) 414-4978

Location:
20 Rensselaer St, Albany, NY 12202

Website

Young Futures

Location: Off Campus

Teach kids art and financial literacy
About

Young Futures

About this opportunity:
Local Albany organization dedicated to bringing free arts education and financial literacy classes to school aged children. Volunteers help facilitate creative art projects and teach foundational financial concepts to empower youth, build confidence, and provide enrichment in neighborhoods where these opportunities are scarce.

Primary Contact:
James Mitchell
[email protected]
(518) 505-4671

Location:
1 Stuben Place, Albany, NY 12202

Website