Needs From: VolunteerCNY.org

assure positive experience during social engagement events/activities for people living with memory loss and their care partners.

The Alzheimer's Association will provide training, information and electronic or printed materials to assist in your efforts. Orientation includes several hours of online learning, self-study and shadowing or mentoring by local Alzheimer's Association staff and volunteers. Some materials are available in multiple languages.

Alzheimer's Association Community Representatives are community engagers that raise awareness of Alzheimer's Association programs, provide basic disease information, and link consumers to Alzheimer’s Association services.

The Alzheimer's Association will provide training, information and electronic or printed materials to assist in your efforts. Orientation includes several hours of online learning, self-study and shadowing or mentoring by local Alzheimer's Association staff and volunteers. Some materials are available in multiple languages.

Support Group Facilitators create a safe, open environment where people share their feelings, thoughts and experiences in a combined effort to better cope with and manage the shared problems of dementia.

The Alzheimer's Association will provide training, information and electronic or printed materials to assist in your efforts. Orientation includes several hours of online learning, self-study and shadowing or mentoring by local Alzheimer's Association staff and volunteers. Some materials are available in multiple languages.

Book Buddies connect community volunteers with students in grades K-3 in the Syracuse City School District. 

Volunteers commit to one hour a week, or half an hour weekly, for the school year working each week with the same student(s) in 30-minute blocks.

Participating SCSD schools include: Seymour Dual Language Academy, STEAM at Dr. King Elementary, Delaware Elementary, McKinley-Brighton, Dr. Weeks, and Roberts K-8! To learn more, visit our website.

Please call Mara at 315-991-7611 x 101

Thank you!

Help Adults in Your Community with Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY!

LiteracyCNY is looking for a committed volunteer to support our Digital Literacy Program at Beauchamp Branch Library on Saturday mornings from 9:30am-12:30pm. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer, you will work one-on-one with adults to improve their digital skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools. 

Commitment Details:

Requirements:

Interested?

Learn More:

Questions?

LiteracyCNY is seeking volunteers for a pilot program to help adults access their My Social Security account online. My Social Security is a free, secure service from the US Social Security Administration website that allows you access to your personal Social Security record. Online services include applying for and managing benefits, verifying wages, and more!

In partnership with the Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) System, we’re planning to offer first come, first serve drop-in sessions in September and October 2025 focused on My Social Security access. NOPL serves the North Syracuse, Cicero, and Brewerton communities in the northern suburbs of Onondaga County.

This volunteer opportunity is part of our Digital Literacy Program, where trained volunteers assist individuals with operating devices, navigating the internet, and understanding everyday digital tools.

What You'll Do:

Requirements:

Location:

Questions:

More about My Social Security:

Having a My Social Security account allows one access to SSA online services that would otherwise only be available by phone or in-person. Online services include applying for and managing benefits, verifying wages, and more. One can even change their direct deposit information, request a replacement social security card, and change their address from the comfort of their home. The site also provides benefit verification letters to provide proof that one does or doesn’t receive social security benefits, supplemental security income(SSI), or Medicare.

LiteracyCNY is seeking volunteers for a pilot program to help adults access their My Social Security account online. My Social Security is a free, secure service from the US Social Security Administration website that allows you access to your personal Social Security record. Online services include applying for and managing benefits, verifying wages, and more!

In partnership with the Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) System, we’re planning to offer first come, first serve drop-in sessions in September and October 2025 focused on My Social Security access. NOPL serves the North Syracuse, Cicero, and Brewerton communities in the northern suburbs of Onondaga County.

This volunteer opportunity is part of our Digital Literacy Program, where trained volunteers assist individuals with operating devices, navigating the internet, and understanding everyday digital tools.

What You'll Do:

Requirements:

Location:

Questions:

More about My Social Security:

Having a My Social Security account allows one access to SSA online services that would otherwise only be available by phone or in-person. Online services include applying for and managing benefits, verifying wages, and more. One can even change their direct deposit information, request a replacement social security card, and change their address from the comfort of their home. The site also provides benefit verification letters to provide proof that one does or doesn’t receive social security benefits, supplemental security income(SSI), or Medicare.

LiteracyCNY is seeking volunteers for a pilot program to help adults access their My Social Security account online. My Social Security is a free, secure service from the US Social Security Administration website that allows you access to your personal Social Security record. Online services include applying for and managing benefits, verifying wages, and more!

In partnership with the Northern Onondaga Public Library (NOPL) System, we’re planning to offer first come, first serve drop-in sessions in September and October 2025 focused on My Social Security access. NOPL serves the North Syracuse, Cicero, and Brewerton communities in the northern suburbs of Onondaga County.

This volunteer opportunity is part of our Digital Literacy Program, where trained volunteers assist individuals with operating devices, navigating the internet, and understanding everyday digital tools.

What You'll Do:

Requirements:

Location:

Questions:

More about My Social Security:

Having a My Social Security account allows one access to SSA online services that would otherwise only be available by phone or in-person. Online services include applying for and managing benefits, verifying wages, and more. One can even change their direct deposit information, request a replacement social security card, and change their address from the comfort of their home. The site also provides benefit verification letters to provide proof that one does or doesn’t receive social security benefits, supplemental security income(SSI), or Medicare.

Brunch N Bible Study, Inc is looking launching Brunch N Blessings: Food Basket Exchange, a reciprocal food security program that provides nutritious, culturally responsive food baskets to underserved women and their families in Syracuse NY. We are looking for the following volunteers for monthly giveaway: 

Greeter/Sign-In 

Inventory Replenishment 

Inventory Organizer / Receiver 

Bagger / Carrying Assistant 

Interested in this opportunity? Fill out the intake form HERE! Thank you :) 

LiteracyCNY trains volunteers to be adult literacy tutors! Volunteer assignments can be:

Please note:  All volunteers must be at least 18 years old, comfortable using a computer for training purposes and email communications, fluent in English, and have completed high school or the equivalent. 

Training: Volunteers attend a Volunteer Tutor Informational Session via Zoom, then proceed at their own pace with web-based tutor training modules. The complete tutor training work usually takes 14-16 hours. 

Volunteer tutors agree to:

Have questions? Contact Betsy Lang at blang@literacycny.org or (315) 420-2355.

LiteracyCNY trains volunteers to be adult literacy tutors! Volunteer assignments can be:

Please note:  All volunteers must be at least 18 years old, comfortable using a computer for training purposes and email communications, fluent in English, and have completed high school or the equivalent. 

Training: Volunteers attend a Volunteer Tutor Informational Session via Zoom, then proceed at their own pace with web-based tutor training modules. The complete tutor training work usually takes 14-16 hours. 

Volunteer tutors agree to:

Have questions? Contact Betsy Lang at blang@literacycny.org or (315) 420-2355.

LiteracyCNY trains volunteers to be adult literacy tutors! Volunteer assignments can be:

Please note:  All volunteers must be at least 18 years old, comfortable using a computer for training purposes and email communications, fluent in English, and have completed high school or the equivalent. 

Training: Volunteers attend a Volunteer Tutor Informational Session via Zoom, then proceed at their own pace with web-based tutor training modules. The complete tutor training work usually takes 14-16 hours. 

Volunteer tutors agree to:

Have questions? Contact Betsy Lang at blang@literacycny.org or (315) 420-2355.

Volunteer puppy raisers and sitters prepare our pups for guide dog training. Raisers bring puppies into their homes to teach them how to live with people and to enjoy learning the skills they need to take on a job that will change someone’s life. Puppy sitters take dogs on short term assignments while still maintaining the skills learned from their full time puppy raiser.  Many of our volunteers find the experience life-changing too.

Simply put, raisers and sitters care for and teach puppies to enjoy being with people and cultivate the confidence a future guide dog needs. They provide hours of patient teaching and socialization experiences over a 12-to-16-month period before returning a well-socialized young adult dog to Guiding Eyes training staff for harness training.

All the volunteer’s work culminates when a person who is blind or visually impaired receives their priceless gift − a guide dog providing mobility, companionship and independence.

For more information visit: https://www.guidingeyes.org/puppy-raising/

Calling All Volunteers & Media – Syracuse International Film Festival 2025

Join us for the end of the rose season in the Mills Rose Garden in Thornden Park. Starting in September, work parties go back to just 2 days per week, Wednesday morning and Saturday morning. This is a great way to get outdoors, learn some basic gardening skills, meet some new people and help with an ongoing project to beautify the Rose Garden in Thornden Park. No skill required. Small groups welcome, and comuunity service hours, too.

Bring garden gloves, sun protection, and a water bottle. Tools and good company are provided.

Fall Schedule starts September 3, ends mid October.

Help Adults in Your Community with Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY!

LiteracyCNY is looking for a committed volunteer to support our Digital Literacy Program at NOPL Cicero Branch Library. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer, you will work one-on-one with adults to improve their digital skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools. Volunteers assist individuals using their own devices or on a laptop provided by LiteracyCNY.

Commitment Details:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

Make a Difference in Your Community—Right from Home!

Are you passionate about your local community and want to help others discover how to give back? We're looking for seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help us update and enrich local pages on Ways to Connect, our national directory of volunteer sites.

Ways to Connect is a crowdsourced platform designed to boost traffic and engagement to local volunteer websites—like this one! With just a bit of online research and your enthusiasm, you can help neighbors easily find volunteer opportunity platforms, service clubs, mutual aid groups, and more—making it simpler than ever for everyone to make an impact locally.

What You'll Do:

Conduct quick, simple online research to identify active service clubs, mutual aid groups, and upcoming volunteer events in your community.

Enhance your community's page on Ways to Connect by ensuring the information is current, accurate, and inviting for potential volunteers.

Optional: Promote your community’s page on social media to help friends and family find a path to service.

Why Volunteer with Inspiring Service?

Easy and flexible: Volunteer remotely at your convenience.

Immediate community impact: Help your neighbors discover meaningful ways to contribute.

Small commitment: Volunteer for as little as 2 hours, or as much as you'd like.

Growth opportunities: Volunteers can explore deeper involvement through our Ambassador program.

Ready to help your community thrive? Join us today and make volunteering more accessible for everyone.

Madison County, New York, is a predominately rural community with pockets of resources.  Due to the nature of the community and county size some youth have unequal access and awareness of the supports available to them.  Youth may also be limited to their local neighborhoods due to other barriers including family schedules, transportation, poverty, knowledge of resources and individual circles of social supports.

Volunteer Mentors are in a unique position and are the ultimate resource for many youth as they navigate the changing world.  Volunteer Mentors can provide a listening ear and mindful guidance as youth determine who they are, what they want to do, who they want to be and how that impacts everyone around them.  A volunteer can provide new options, experiences and opportunities to safely explore the world around them. Volunteer Mentors would act as a conduit to normalizing experiences for youth, trying new things, learning skills, practicing those new skills and to be comfortable with social opportunities. 

Expectation: 

A Volunteer Mentor would commit to a one-year match with one youth starting at time of enrollment for the youth.  The Volunteer Mentor would be expected to provide approximately 2 visits a month, at a total of 4 hours or more per month, to that assigned youth. Activities include transportation in the Volunteer's personal automobile to and from activities, attending community events, creating and identifying activities with the youth participant, counseling, validating, and more of the youth.  A list of activity ideas would be provided to support the Volunteer's knowledge and inspire match outings.  Some training is required and provided by the program.  Ongoing logs of activities are required monthly to the Program Manager.  The program does provide gas stipends as well as materials (i.e., arts and crafts items, games, safety items, and related), tickets/vouchers to events and some limited reimbursement opportunities, all as funds allow. 

https://capmadco.org/about/volunteer-intern-opportunities/

Join us at the Food Chain! Come in and serve hot dogs and other snacks to hungry visitors! Volunteers will be grilling pre-cooked hot dogs, sausages and coneys on a griddle, serving customers and taking money and making change for visitors. Shifts are every Thursday-Sunday, 11am-3pm, weather permitting. We ask for 1-3 people per shift. Please reach out for more info!

Help Adults in Your Community with Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY!

LiteracyCNY is looking for a committed volunteer to support our Digital Literacy Program at Fayetteville Free Library. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer, you will work one-on-one with adults to improve their digital skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools. Volunteers assist individuals using their own devices or on a laptop provided by LiteracyCNY.

Commitment Details:

Requirements:

Interested?

Learn More:

Questions?

Help Adults in Your Community with Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY!

LiteracyCNY is looking for a committed volunteer to support our Digital Literacy Program at NOPL Brewerton Branch Library. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer, you will work one-on-one with adults to improve their digital skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools. Volunteers assist individuals using their own devices or on a laptop provided by LiteracyCNY.

Commitment Details:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

Help Adults in Your Community with Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY!

LiteracyCNY is looking for a committed volunteer to support our Digital Literacy Program at Frank J. Basloe Library in Herkimer County. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer, you will work one-on-one with adults to improve their digital skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools. Volunteers assist individuals using their own devices or on a laptop provided by LiteracyCNY.

Details:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

We're Seeking Volunteers for Small Group Digital Literacy Workshops!

LiteracyCNY’s Digital Literacy Program helps adults develop essential skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and using common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools.

We're recruiting volunteers to lead small group workshops (4-6 adults) on essential digital literacy topics! Workshops are 60-120 minutes long and cover topics such as:

These workshops are an exciting expansion of our existing no-cost, one-on-one digital literacy services at public sites across Herkimer County.

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

Help Adults in Your Community with Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY!

LiteracyCNY is looking for a committed volunteer to support our Digital Literacy Program at Fairmount Community Library. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer, you will work one-on-one with adults to improve their digital skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools. Volunteers assist individuals using their own devices or on a laptop provided by LiteracyCNY.

Details:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More:

Questions?

LiteracyCNY’s Digital Literacy Program helps adults develop essential skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and using common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools.

We're recruiting volunteers to lead small group workshops (4-6 adults) on essential digital literacy topics! Workshops are 60-120 minutes long and cover topics such as:

These workshops are an exciting expansion of our existing no-cost, one-on-one digital literacy services at public sites across Oneida County.

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

LiteracyCNY’s Digital Literacy Program helps adults develop essential skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and using common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools.

We're recruiting volunteers to lead small group workshops (4-6 adults) on essential digital literacy topics! Workshops are 60-120 minutes long and cover topics such as:

These workshops are an exciting expansion of our existing no-cost, one-on-one digital literacy services at public sites across Madison County.

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Signup for a training and become a Digital Literacy Volunteer HERE →

Want to Learn More:

Questions?

Help Job Seekers in Your Community- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY at CNYWorks!

LiteracyCNY is partnering with CNYWorks to place Digital Literacy Volunteers in their Resource Room. As a Digital Literacy Volunteer with LiteracyCNY at CNYWorks, you'll assist individuals with various job-search related tasks, providing crucial support as they navigate their employment journey.

Details:

What You'll Do:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

Help Spanish Speaking Adults in Your Community Learn Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY to Bridge the Digital Divide

LiteracyCNY is looking for dedicated Spanish-speaking volunteers to help adults in the City of Syracuse learn essential computer, smartphone, and tablet skills. In partnership with Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA), LiteracyCNY schedules sessions for Digital Literacy Volunteers to work with residents to develop their digital skills. SHA serves hundreds of Spanish speakers who struggle with English. Your ability to communicate in both English and Spanish will make a significant impact in helping SHA residents impacted by the digital divide. 

Location Details:

What You’ll Do:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

Help Adults in Your Community Learn Essential Digital Skills- Volunteer with LiteracyCNY to Bridge the Digital Divide!

LiteracyCNY is looking for dedicated volunteers to help adults in the City of Syracuse learn essential computer, smartphone, and tablet skills. Join us in our mission to bridge the digital divide by volunteering at various Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA) residential properties.

Location Details:

What You’ll Do:

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions

Make-A-Wish Central New York is currently looking for Bosnian speaking volunteers to wish team. We are focused on providing high quality wish experiences for every family regardless of their primary language. We understand that when the wish journey is delivered in the family's primary language, there is an added layer of comfort, ease, and joy. Volunteers must be fluent in Bosnian and English, complete a background check, wish trainings, and be willing provide a positive experience for our wish families! 

Make-A-Wish Central New York is currently looking for Korean speaking volunteers to wish team. We are focused on providing high quality wish experiences for every family regardless of their primary language. We understand that when the wish journey is delivered in the family's primary language, there is an added layer of comfort, ease, and joy. Volunteers must be fluent in Rohingya and English, complete a background check, wish trainings, and be willing provide a positive experience for our wish families! 

Make-A-Wish Central New York is currently looking for Korean speaking volunteers to wish team. We are focused on providing high quality wish experiences for every family regardless of their primary language. We understand that when the wish journey is delivered in the family's primary language, there is an added layer of comfort, ease, and joy. Volunteers must be fluent in Korean and English, complete a background check, wish trainings, and be willing provide a positive experience for our wish families! 

Make-A-Wish Central New York is currently looking for Spanish speaking volunteers to wish team. We are focused on providing high quality wish experiences for every family regardless of their primary language. We understand that when the wish journey is delivered in the family's primary language, there is an added layer of comfort, ease, and joy. Volunteers must be fluent in Spanish and English, complete a background check, wish trainings, and be willing provide a positive experience for our wish families! 

Hello everyone! Brunch N Bible Study, Inc is now recruiting a new Board President! We're looking for a woman who is passionate about cultivating holistic women and food security.

Responsibilities include: 

If our mission resonates with you, fill out an interest form today! We need your talents and passions to continue our mission to serve the women we love!

Fill out our interest form today! 

Interest Form

A nonprofit civic art group, the Syracuse Poster Project supports itself through a combination of corporate sponsorship, charitable grants, and product sales. The marketing and promotion volunteer will help market and promote our products (civic art and poetry posters, note cards, postcards, and poetry booklets) and activities (contests, workshops, social events) through email platforms, social media, video, and traditional print media. The position requires strong writing skills, basic graphic design skill, and good verbal communication skills, plus familiarity with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube).

Partnering with the Syracuse Mets, the Rescue Mission sells 50/50 Raffle Tickets with half of all jackpots going directly towards the mission of ending hunger and homelessness!

Join this fast paced, fun, public facing volunteer initiative today and make an immediate impact that you can see with every sale! 

Sign up on our volunteer hub today! Syracuse Mets Raffle Ticket Volunteer Registration

Play cards, board games, or trivia with elders. 

Clear Path For Veterans is looking for groups or individuals that would be interested in coming out for a few hours to help with our grounds and/or facilities. Tasks such as raking, weeding, trimming, mowing, planting and more.  Our 78 acres in Chittenango is regularly used by veterans, family members, and the community. 

Volunteers in the Syracuse area are invited to help us in our mission to preserve historic records from across New York State. The Central New York Digitization Center is located within the offices of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation on E. Brighton Avenue in Syracuse, NY. Digitization volunteers are trained to:

Our Central New York Digitization Center has a state-of-the-art CopiBook OS A2 Scanner that we typically operate Tuesday through Thursday in three hour shifts, starting at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Volunteers are asked to commit to a shift once a week for at least three months.

We'll be doing some weeding and mulching of the garden at the edge of our farm together. Whether you’re a seasoned helper or brand new, we’d love to have you out. It’s a great way to spend time outside, meet new people, and support food, culture, and community in action. Volunteers help with all kinds of tasks like planting, weeding, distributing produce, painting, mulching, and more—whatever the farm needs that day!

What to bring:

Water bottle

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)

Sturdy shoes

Work gloves

Snacks

Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty!

RSVP using this link please: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/VI--N_wdM0YD5tNs_vhORw

We are in need of delivery drivers, Monday-Friday. Drivers use their own vehicles and most routes can be completed within 1-1.5 hours. Substitute drivers can pick when and where they want to deliver-very flexible! For more information email director@moweoc.org

Travel Unity is a nonprofit focused on making the world of travel welcoming to people of all backgrounds and identities.

As a Travel Unity Youth Volunteer, you can make an impact on travel and tourism businesses in your local community. The first step is to join the Future Travel Leaders Network by filling out this form: https://bit.ly/FTLNapp

TU Youth Volunteers meet youth from around the world through online calls and get to meet interesting travel professionals.

Volunteers must be able to work on a team basis, communicate regularly, be proficient with meeting programs (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.), and enjoy the excitement of collaborative output.

For more info, visit https://travelunity.org/youth

We're Seeking Volunteers for Small Group Digital Literacy Workshops!

LiteracyCNY’s Digital Literacy Program helps adults develop essential skills-such as device use, internet navigation, and using common software like email, Microsoft apps, and Google tools.

We're recruiting volunteers to lead small group workshops (4-6 adults) on essential digital literacy topics! Workshops are 60-120 minutes long and cover topics such as:

These workshops are an exciting expansion of our existing no-cost, one-on-one digital literacy services at public sites across Onondaga County.

Requirements:

Ready to Help?

Want to Learn More?

Questions?

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Central New York Chapter is excited to honor CNY's Finest - a select group of local men and women who are committed to professional growth through a guided fundraising and awareness campaign. These honorees exemplify strong leadership qualities, are active in their community and have excelled in their chosen professions. Honorees enjoy many benefits throughout the campaign, including networking, professional development, and the knowledge that they are helping to better the lives of children and adults living with cystic fibrosis.

The 3-month campaign begins with a special kick-off event for honorees, committee members, and special guests. Throughout the campaign, CNY's Finest honorees will put their creativity, passion and competitive spirit to the test as they work together to raise awareness and funds to support the mission of the CF Foundation. The campaign will culminate with the Finest Finale Celebration at our Savoring the Salt City event which recognizes the honorees' accomplishments individually and as a class, and provides guests with fabulous food and refreshments, entertainment and fun!

On Sunday mornings from 9-12 we will engage in a variety of wildlife center maintenance projects and conservation work.  This will be outside projects with the potential to get dirty.  The activities will range from building and installing house to adding new roofs to buildings, gathering downed trees and brush and removing invasive species.  

Do you love lacrosse? Come share your passion with Syracuse youth and help grow the game! We are looking for current and former players to join our coaching team.  Open volunteer positions include:

Once horses and donkeys are turned out, the stalls are cleaned out. We are looking for help to clean the stalls, no experience needed we will show you how its done!

We are looking for experiencedrinced horse handlers to help us with turn out and turn in. 

Opened in the Summer of 2023, this newly designed health and wellness complex brings key services under one roof with a needed focus on wellness, healthy aging and brain health, including Alzheimer’s disease research and care.

Some aspects of this role include:

Patients are so appreciative of the assistance volunteers offer in this new building - it's a great way to help while being active and social!

Volunteers greet, escort, and transport patients & visitors to a variety of units and departments at both University & Community Hospitals.  They also deliver cards, flowers, personal belongings and specimens to the lab, in addition to completing other tasks.  Volunteers spread joy throughout the hospital with each and every in interaction.

This is a great way to: give back, be social and active & learn more about Upstate!  

Matthew House is in need of volunteers to join its team. We provide all necessary training and have individuals shadow experienced staff until they are comfortable and ready to be independently on their own. We are in need of house care volunteers, direct resident care volunteers and volunteers to help take care of our lawn & memorial garden this summer. 

As a Volunteer Greeter, you will:

We are looking for volunteers who would like to come and help set up/cleanup and serve dinner to our residents of the family shelter. Dinner at the shelter is 5PM-6PM, 7 Days a week. 

JAN 2025:  THIS ASSIGNMENT IS CURRENTLY FULL, WITH OPENINGS ANTICIPATED IN MAY.

Cancer Center volunteers are typically, but not necessarily survivors or past care-givers of friends/family members with cancer.  They understand the unique needs of these patients and their loved ones.

Volunteers round on all patient service & waiting areas; offering refreshments, comfort items, general helpful info to patients/caregivers. 

Volunteers help patients complete American Cancer Society forms, navigate Upstate buildings and orient patients & families to the Cancer Center resources.

The One-to-One Program matches trained volunteers with nursing home residents to provide companionship. Volunteer activities range from one-on-one visits to group activities.

Great for work groups, church groups, and school groups

Interested?  Fill out the form below:

https://forms.office.com/r/pZM73nw6mT

Are you 55 or older?
Looking to stay active after retirement?
Help seniors in our community stay independent by becoming a Senior Companion.

Together you might do things such as:

·         Go on walks

·         Grocery shopping

·         Prepare a simple meal together

·         Drive to appointments

·         Play games and watch TV

Income-eligible Companions receive a small stipend and travel reimbursement.

For more information fill out the link below:
https://forms.office.com/r/pZM73nw6mT

*The Senior Companion Program is a program of AmeriCorps Seniors

This program is held every Wednesday from 12:30pm-2:30pm.

An opportunity to provide respite to caregivers and care recipients. An opportunity for lunch and fun.

Looking for volunteers to help with activities for our caregivers and care recipients

Fill out the application below. There is an orientation that can be in person or virtual.

https://forms.office.com/r/pZM73nw6mT

Our Senior Center is looking for some volunteers to help during breakfast and/or lunch time. Volunteers are welcome to stay between or after meals and spend time with the Seniors as well. 

Breakfast is from 8:30-9:00 am

Lunch is from 12-12:30pm

All volunteers must be vaccinated and wear a mask. Background check is required for re-occurring volunteers, and all paperwork is handled in house for you! 

POSITION OVERVIEW

TeleCare is a free telephone reassurance program which provides a regular connection to isolated and vulnerable members of our community. Volunteer reassurance specialists make outbound telephone calls to enrolled clients and provide medication reminders, welfare checks, and social visits. Calls are up to 10 minutes in length.

Reassurance specialists must have strong verbal communication skills and be able to respectfully and compassionately support clients who present with mental health conditions and life challenges. Comfort talking on the phone and using required computer programs is a must.

TeleCare shifts are available 365 days per year and are: 7am-11am, 11am-3pm, 3pm-7pm, and 7pm-10pm. Volunteers are able to build their own schedule based on their availability. All volunteer training and work is completed at our East Syracuse office.

ESSENTIAL VOLUNTEER FUNCTIONS

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

TELECARE TRAINING

Training to make TeleCare calls is 4-hours and can be done in a single day. It includes shadowing, one-on-one instruction to gain familiarity with active listening, practice using our computer and telephone system, and then making calls ls under the guidance of a trainer. Ongoing supervision TeleCare policies and procedures are maintained.

ONLINE APPLICATION

Interested parties are encouraged to explore our TeleCare page and to complete our online TeleCare Volunteer application.

TeleCare: https://www.contactsyracuse.org/telecare/

Application: https://form.jotform.com/233623772854160

CONTACT

If you need additional information or have any questions or concerns, please contact Kristine Knutson at 315-218-1915 or kknutson@contactsyracuse.org

The Poverello Health Center is looking for physicians who are able to volunteer one Wednesday a month during our clinic hours to see and assess patients. 

Volunteer Recruitment  Member

As a Volunteer Recruitment Member you'd assist the Volunteer Services Team find a skilled, talented, and diverse group of volunteers for various roles in the American Red Cross. We rely on volunteers to help families when they need support. There are many ways volunteers can help. A recruitment team member uses their skills to find and attract new volunteers in local communities.

DUTIES:

*Meet with our team (virtually) to identify Red Cross recruitment needs.

*Share your fabulous and creative ideas for volunteer recruitment efforts.

*Research outreach events and fairs to attract volunteers.

*Reach out to community groups to set up and give presentations.

COMMITMENT:

*Have a flexible schedule.

*Attend short virtual meetings with the team a couple of times a month.

*Attend events that you identify as opportunities for recruitment in your area.

QUALIFICATIONS:

*Reside in the Eastern NY Region

*Valid Driver’s License

*Age 18+

*Comfortable working independently at times

*Ability to read, write, and follow verbal and written instructions in English

*Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Have Questions?

You can email melessha.thomas@redcross.org with questions.

Call or Text 315-777-0411

The American Red Cross relies on volunteers just like YOU! This is a great opportunity to meet other volunteers and help others! If this opportunity isn't the right fit, we have many others! Connect with us!

At Upstate, healing comes in many forms- including the wag of a tail and the unconditional love of our pet therapy dogs.

Nestled amidst the hustle & bustle of medical care, patients and staff alike experience the warmth, healing & uplifting power that pet therapy dogs bring. With their gentle tail wagging and comforting presence, these four-legged therapists embody the spirit of compassion and acceptance.

At Upstate, we have two separate programs comprised of teams (certified* handler & dog) who make scheduled visits with:

Through our partnering organizations, your pet may earn certification and put these benefits to work for those in need.  Visit our website for more info on our Pet Therapy programs.

*While we would love to have as many dogs as possible certified, not all who apply will be accepted.  Visit PAWSofCNY.org or PetPartners of CNY for more info on whether or not your dog is the right fit & for more info on getting evaluated and becoming certified.

Are you ready to make a lasting difference in the lives of our future workforce?

Be a career coach and guide high school students toward their success.

Your time, encouragement, and experience could be the boost they need to reach their full potential.

What is career coaching?

You would be working with students on an activity that relates to STEM or general career readiness. Activities are designed to help students develop their transferable skills, provide networking opportunities, and prepare them for the workforce.

Typical activities:

·        Resume reviews and mock interviews

·        Team building or problem-solving exercises

·        Industry-based challenges

Why be a career coach?

·        Invest in your future workforce.

·        Share your passion and experience with students.

·        Professional development, team building, and networking.

What are the qualities of the ideal career coach?

·        Strengths-focused and committed to bringing out the students’ best potential.

·        Invested in the process of supporting career-connected experiences for students.

·        Continuous learner and flexible mindset.

How does it work?

·        Contact the PEB team at pebteam@macny.org to learn about volunteer opportunities.

·        Choose what works for you – a variety of times and topics.

·        Show up and have fun!

Advisory Board Roles and Responsibilities:

The advisory board plays a crucial role in curating, presenting, and promoting the festival's programs. The board includes various members who contribute their expertise in different areas such as marketing, security, and more.

Opportunities for Volunteer Diverse Advisory Board Members Planning and Strategy:

Volunteers will help in planning the festival's events and activities. They will contribute to strategic decisions that shape the direction of the festival.

Community Engagement:

Advisory board members will work on initiatives to engage diverse communities within Syracuse. They will help ensure that the festival's programs are inclusive and representative of different cultural backgrounds.

Promotion and Outreach:

Volunteers will assist in promoting the festival through various channels. They will help build partnerships with local organizations and businesses to enhance the festival's reach.

Event Management:

Advisory board members will be involved in managing events during the festival. They will coordinate with other volunteers and staff to ensure the smooth execution of events.

How to Get Involved If you are interested in becoming a volunteer diverse advisory board member for the Syracuse International Film Festival. Engaging with this opportunity allows you to contribute to a vibrant cultural event that has been a staple in Syracuse for over two decades.

By joining the advisory board, you will play a significant role in shaping the future of the festival and ensuring it continues to be a platform for diverse voices in film and media.

Help take care of the amazing rescued and endangered animals of Skanda -- horses, goats, miniature donkeys, pigs, chickens, and ducks -- by helping to feed them, clean their living spaces, and socialize with them. 

Join Skanda's team of amazing volunteers. This could be right for you if you love animals, love the outdoors, and want to make a difference. 

Families are welcome. High school students can earn community service hours. 

We will match you with activities that are a good fit for your physical ability, schedule, and interests. Contact us to arrange a 30-minute orientation on the farm: https://www.thehavenatskanda.org/volunteer

Feed Skanda's horses, goats, miniature donkeys, guineas and large pigs lunch between 11am-1pm. This is the perfect way to bond with the sweet, loving animals of Skanda and add joy and fulfillment to your life, knowing you are making an immediate difference. Feeding the animals requires training, and consistent availability on an ongoing basis (more or less, life happens, we are flexible of course).

Family Court Volunteer: Assisting individuals petitioning Family Court for Orders of Protection. Monday-Friday, 8:30-12:30 or 12:30-4, at the Court House downtown Syracuse. We request a minimum of 2 shifts per month.

Your energy, compassion and support can make all the difference to a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or elder abuse. There are many ways you can help. To become a volunteer you must:

For more information: https://www.verahouse.org/how-can-i-help/volunteer 

Volunteers at our reception desks reflect the warmth of Francis House. Welcoming visitors and answering phones, they are often visitors' first introduction to Francis House. All volunteers must complete and application and background check before beginning training. Our need is greatest on weekends and the 4pm-7pm weekday shift. Contact us at volunteer@francishouseny.org or 315-475-5422 to apply today!

Volunteers in each of our two kitchens are essential in supporting the needs of our residents. Guided by the Francis House Menu Coordinator, volunteers prepare meals for residents and bake sweet treats for visitors. All volunteers must complete an application and background check before beginning their training. Contact us at volunteer@francishouseny.org or 315-475-5422 to apply today!

We are always looking for volunteers with a wide variety of skill sets and will design the volunteer’s “job description” to fit individuals’ interests and skills.

Caring and friendly volunteers work hand-in-hand with both patients and the nursing units; answering call bells, visiting with patients & their families.  They are willing to survey recreational needs and deliver Comfort Cart items, sometimes helping patients to pass the time.

Volunteers greet/visit patients and their families – assisting where needed, ensuring personal items are within reach, run errands, take specimens to the lab and stock supplies.  

A big part of this role is checking in on patients and their loved ones to ensure they are as comfortable as can be, helping visitors navigate the hospital and visiting with patients who may be lonely or bored.

The PACU & Surgery Center step-down units provide care to patients after surgery while recovering from anesthesia until they are moved to either their hospital room or are discharged home.

Volunteers help prepare stretchers, run errands, deliver lab specimens, stock blanket warmers and stock supplies for the PACU and Surgery Center.  Volunteers also discharge patients in wheelchairs or help staff transport patients on stretchers.

Upstate University Hospital's Emergency services are wide ranging from: Adult Emergency and Trauma to Pediatric Emergency, and Geriatric Emergency Medicine (for those 65+).

Volunteers stock supplies, run errands, take specimens to the lab, assist in the transport of patients and prepare stretchers & beds.

Volunteers also round on patients offering non-clinical assistance.  Visitation is offered to patients who are particularly anxious, scared or lonely.

The Child Life Program at Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital helps young patients cope with their fears and anxieties by offering pre-operative sessions and therapeutic activities that are tailored to meet their social, emotional, and developmental needs.

Caring, friendly volunteers work hand-in-hand with Child-Life specialists and pediatric patients in the Children’s Hospital, pediatric Emergency Department & Hematology/Oncology units.

Upon the direction of a staff member, they visit with patients and their families, are willing to survey recreational needs and deliver Activity Cart items, and sometimes help patients to pass the time.  Volunteers may also ensure common areas and items within those areas are sanitized in between use.

Year-Round Volunteers:

Every summer, the children that attend Camp are able to form new bonds and maintain old ones with others who can understand exactly what they are going through.  Unfortunately, at the end of the week when the children go home, they may be far from their friends and may not see them again until the following summer, thereby losing that support.  By providing year-round programming, Camp Good Days hopes to keep the bonds formed at Camp strong, while providing support for the entire family. It takes hundreds of volunteers to keep these such programs going. 

Volunteer Year-Round

Summer Program Volunteers:

Volunteer to work as a camp counselor, kitchen staff, security, or assist in one of our specialty areas (e.g. arts & crafts, woodworking, etc.). Looking for a great summer adventure? Apply to be a volunteer at one of the Camp Good Days and Special Times summer programs.  An adventure that lasts a lifetime!

 Apply to volunteer here!

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

Program Overview

The Digital Inclusion Program for Older Adults is developing a training and support program to help older adults make effective and appropriate use of telehealth technology. We believe that telehealth can be particularly beneficial to the older adults we serve by addressing mobility challenges, improving patient-provider communication, and maximizing the value of in-person services.

Volunteer Position Overview

We are seeking a health care professional with experience working with older adults (doctor, nurse, medical social worker) to help us shape this program. In particular, we are looking for assistance to:

· Understand patient perceptions of and concerns regarding telehealth.

· Understand and build program content to address technical impediments to use of telehealth (e.g. devices, device familiarity).

· Understand and build program content to address human impediments to use of telehealth (e.g. communication concerns, desire for personal contact).

· Develop program content to enhance patient-provider communication. E.g., help patient identify questions and goals for a telehealth session and help ensure that the provider understands and is responsive to those questions and goals, including follow up by patient and by provider.

· The program will also address related digital healthcare resources such as patient portals and on-line health information.

Expected Activities and Deliverables

· Conduct research on Telehealth Best Practices and existing resources to support older adults.

· Design and implement 2 focus groups with older adults to gain insight into their needs and perspectives.

· Provide a report from the focus groups, including learnings and proposed best practices.

· Collaborate with staff to design and test materials for future workshops and one-on-one trainings.

Other Details

· This is a hybrid volunteer position, and will require some in-office hours for meetings with staff, as well as meetings with clients at community partner locations.

Do you have a skill or hobby you'd like to share with our daycare littles? Do you do like to Zumba, do yoga, read stories, play instruments, arts and crafts or any enrichment activity that you would like to share with our young friends?

Our day care is looking for volunteers to engage with the children in fun and enriching activities. Although ideas are listed above, the options are endless and the potential is huge.

This could be a one time volunteer opportunity or a re-occurring one. (Background check is required for re-occurring volunteers, and all paperwork is handled in house for you!)

This is also great for either individuals or small groups of up to 4. 

*The Volunteer will be needed most on Monday's and Fridays, but may be asked to come during the week if available.

The Volunteer will assist the teachers in promoting the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of students. Support the teacher/classroom to ensure and maintain a safe healthy learning environment. Establish positive and productive relationships with the children. Actively engage with students in all areas of program. Support social and emotional development. Provide positive guidance. Advance physical and intellectual experience.

HS Diploma or equivalent, experience working with children birth to age 5 in a classroom/day care setting is preferred but not required. Must be able to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  OCFS Clearance, background check, and fingerprinting is required

Full or Part time is available; Monday-Friday, days and times are flexible, 10 month

Westcott CC is looking for a volunteer van driver to fill in while full time driver is on vacation or out for a period of time.  Must pass background check and have a clean driving record.  

We need help with organizing and executing fundraisers.  If you are a great organizer, we would love for you to join our team and help us raise funds for our program by being involved with fun fundraising activities.  We are looking for someone who can generate donations for raffles and help organize activities.

The principal tasks of a lesson volunteer include working with students in grooming horses (when students are able to), getting them physically warmed up for their lessons and “sidewalking” during the mounted portion to ensure the safety of our riders. Experience with horses and/or people with different life challenges is not required. From the Ground Up provides a three-hour training for all its volunteers, including our safety guidelines, introduction to basic horse care, and practice in sidewalking. All volunteers are required to attend a training session annually. You must be a minimum of 14 years old to become a lesson volunteer at From the Ground Up.
NOTE: When attending a volunteer training, dress in layers, bring a hat, gloves, sunglasses and wear hard-toe shoes (e.g. hiking boots).

We need experienced equine volunteers to help us take daily care of our equine staff, including feeding, moving horses to and from paddocks and pastures, and “mucking stalls.” Morning and evening volunteer hours are available. Horsecare volunteers get the privilege of spending individual time with our very special equine staff! Horsecare volunteers must be at least 16 years old.

Volunteers come to Food Bank of Central New York's Warehouse to help sort and pack nutritious foods into individual household boxes for distribution throughout our 11 county service region.  

To volunteer for this opportunity, you must be age 14 or older and children between the ages of 14 - 17 must be accompanied by an adult who will also be volunteering.

All volunteers must wear closed toe shoes that fully cover the foot and be able to lift 35 pounds.

Anyone interested in volunteering should visit https://foodbankcny.volunteerhub.com/ to view open shifts and must create a volunteer account online before they become eligible to volunteer.

Please contact Food Bank's Volunteer Coordinator, Sara Tucker at (315)437-1899 x223 with any questions.

 Thank you for your interest in supporting Food Bank of CNY's mission.

Our "Red Door" Food Pantry can use help stocking and sorting food and helping clients when they come through to collect their food essentials. We would love consistent volunteers who can commit to the same day/time weekly. We can also use volunteers who need to complete service/volunteer hours. 

Our Pantry is open Monday through Friday 9am-3:30pm. 

Skanda is seeking help caring for its herd of 11 horses, mostly rescued. This would include, depending on skill level, turning the horses out in the morning and/or in at night, mucking stalls, grooming. 

Volunteers must have considerable equine experience for this activity. 

This is an ongoing need, and we do ask that volunteers for this activity are able to make a relatively consistent, ongoing commitment. 

Central NY Spay Neuter Assistance Program (CNY SNAP) needs volunteers to help with the care and update of the cat shelter. This involves helping taking care of cats in our facility and providing them with food, water, enrichment activities as well as cleaning their cages, litter pans and cat rooms. Additional tasks may include sweeping, mopping, cleaning dishes, laundry and general cleaning activities. 

Shifts and hours can vary based on needs and availability. We have hours available from 8AM to 12PM and 5PM to 9PM, 7 days a week. 

Training is provided. 

To sign up please fill out our volunteer application below:

https://forms.gle/XWn4ZxyKabzzacRf7

The Central NY Spay Neuter Assistance Program (CNY SNAP) in Cortland runs a low-cost spay/neuter clinic every Monday and Saturday. The clinic serves low-income families who want to get their dog or cat fixed and also alters rescued animals in adoption programs.

We need volunteers to help out with non-medical tasks during the clinic, such as helping with sign-in, post-op, paperwork, cleaning, and other tasks.

Shifts are 2-4 hours on Mondays or Saturdays.

Training is provided.

Volunteer Application: 

https://forms.gle/XWn4ZxyKabzzacRf7

Seeking able-bodied volunteers to muck the mini-donkey stalls on Tuesdays and/or Wednesdays. This entails bringing a wheelbarrow and pitchfork into the mini-donkey area and cleaning all the manure out of their stalls and flipping their sawdust bedding so it is fluffy, and adding more bedding when needed. 

This is a favorite activity for volunteers because the mini-donkeys are so friendly and loving, and volunteers also can groom them (brush them). 

This activity is physically engaging but very doable for most people, and a great activity for kids and families.

We are seeking reliable people with relatively consistent schedules who are available for about 90 minutes on Tuesdays and/or Wednesday on an ongoing basis. We provide training and support. 

Provide administrative support to staff working in an adult learning setting.

Provide administrative support to staff working in an early childhood education setting.

Support would be provided at out administrative offices.

Administrative support includes filing, organizing, developing Word documents, developing and maintaining Excel documents, planning and facilitation of special activities / events, and facilitation of fundraising activities

Our agency has a volunteer opportunity for a transportation volunteer. Many of our clients have a need to navigate the city but have limited or no access to Transporation. These needs include but are not limited to: doctor's appointments, school lessons, grocery stores. Some of the opportunities may be ongoing, but many of them will be irregular. A request for transportation will be sent out with a minimum of 24 hours notice along with details of pick up and drop off locations. 

A volunteer orientation and a background check is required and facilitated through the agency. Proof of license and vehicle registration is required of the volunteer. Additionally, the agency will provide mileage reimbursements. 

We have a volunteer opportunity for transportation volunteers to drive clients to citizenship classes that are hosted at our offices and then back home when the class is completed. This isa an ongoing opportunity that happens every Monday and Tuesday evenings. Volunteers would only have to be responsible for one day unless if there was a desire and availability to do both days. Please find the times listed below:

Pick up: 5:00 pm - 5:30pm 

Drop off: 7:30pm - 8:00pm

A volunteer orientation and background check hosted by the agency will be required along with proof of license and vehicle registration provided by the volunteer. Additionally, the agency will provide reimbursement for mileage. 

The Samaritan Center is in need of volunteers for various shifts. 

Click here to complete an application

Libraries throughout Madison County are always in need of help with the various tasks that help make them successful. If you are 55 or older and interested in volunteering at a library, contact us at Madison County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. We have formal relationships with a couple of the libraries and can connect you with the volunteer coordinators at other libraries. 

Volunteers will be trained to lead exercise programs that help build strength and improve balance for older residents in Madison County. Must be a registered RSVP volunteer which includes background screening. 

Specific needs are in Chittenango and as back-up in Oneida. 

Willingness to drive older Madison County residents to various medical appointments using your own vehicle.

Must be a Madison County resident (or live nearby), 55 or older, agree to a background check, and willing to use mobile technology for assignments. 

Training will be provided. AARP Safe Driving Course and American Heart Assn. CPR training reimbursement for registered RSVP volunteers. 

The Program provides year-round, no-cost tax preparation in Syracuse and Onondaga County. The program’s tax preparers and trained volunteers ensure low-income clients receive the highest tax refund possible, earn maximum Earned Income and Child Tax Credits (EITC, CTC), and avoid predatory lenders and/or expensive tax preparation fees. In 2022, the program secured -on average- $2173 in tax returns for more than 1500 households whose average income was $25,000. Providing at times transformative financial opportunities for those who need it most, the program is nonetheless volunteer-driven. The more volunteers, the more clients served!

Interested in volunteering but have limited availability? Or maybe you're looking for a group volunteer opportunity? Once more, No Problem! We'll work with you or your group to develop a schedule that works for you!

DETAILED VOLUNTEER DESCRIPTIONS - To apply please click here!

Admin Assistant Volunteer
Admin Assistant Volunteers help clients organize and complete their paperwork. They also help with the flow of the site by assisting with completing necessary data entry work and other office duties. Helps with making phone calls to clients to answer their questions and set up appointments.

Interpreter Volunteer
Greets and assist clients who do not speak English as their primary language with paperwork. Answers logical questions and helps translate documents that are not available in their native language. They are the first members to greet the client entering the site. We are especially looking for an interpreter for clients who speak/read Spanish.

Greeter/Screener Volunteer
Greets clients and provides them with paperwork. Answers logical questions. They are the first members to greet the client entering the site.

Tax Preparer Volunteer
Prepare Federal and state tax returns, with easy-to-use software provided by the IRS.