Needs From: VolunteerCNY.org

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.

Gift shop clerk needed.  Hours will vary as will days. 

We are in a need of a 1:1 visitor to come in and visit, sit, chat, reminisce with our elders who are living here, who are lonely and could use a visit.

The Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, New York, seeks volunteers to assist with the maintenance and improvement of its historic Locktender's Garden. The garden highlights the unique garden operated alongside Erie Canal locks and features raised beds with a variety of annuals, perennials, vegetables, and herbs. The role of a garden volunteer is to assist in planting, weeding, harvesting, and maintaining the garden, with opportunities to participate in planning for the garden's future, major renovations, and teaching visitors about the garden for those who are interested. This is one of many ways in which an individual can help the Erie Canal Museum showcase the lasting impact of the Erie Canal, the history of New York State, and the history and significance of the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the Museum's most important artifact. 

No prior experience is necessary, and tour guide opportunities are scheduled on an individual basis. Please complete and return the application attached here to educator@eriecanalmuseum.org. For more information, call 315-471-0593, extension 15.

Starting a new non-profit in Oswego County for the recovery community.  RCO is Recovery Community Organization and very needed to help with long term sustainable recovery from alcohol or other drugs. Recovery services include harm reduction and all pathways to recovery.  Education and awareness are part of the mission.  Check out FOR-NY for more information on an RCO.

Outreach includes activities and events for the recovery community, planning and executing as well as recruiting community members and those in recovery.  Gathering data would include surveys and outreach in locations across oswego county, in person and virtually.  Preparing educational activities, flyers, new services, etc. for the recovery community in Oswego County. 

Meals on Wheels is in need of delivery drivers Mondays through Fridays.  Volunteers will be able to drive their own vehicles, each route takes about an hour to an hour and a half.  A short orientation is needed prior to volunteering. Please contact Tina @ Volunteer@meals.org for more info.

Seeking compassionate and dedicated volunteers to become certified, long-term care ombudsmen in Onondaga, Oswego, Cayuga, and Cortland counties.

As an ombudsman, you will have the opportunity to regularly visit a local nursing home or other adult care facility to advocate for residents and help ensure they are receiving quality, person-centered care.

Volunteers receive free training to become New York State Certified Ombudsmen.

Duties:

Requirements:

Upon your responding to our need you will see an Application (Volunteer Waiver). Please complete it and email to Rebecca Alder at ralder@ariseinc.org

For more information: Contact Rebecca Alder 315-671-5108 

Seeking compassionate and dedicated volunteers to become certified, long-term care ombudsmen in Onondaga, Oswego, Cayuga, and Cortland counties.

As an ombudsman, you will have the opportunity to regularly visit a local nursing home or other adult care facility to advocate for residents and help ensure they are receiving quality, person-centered care.

Volunteers receive free training to become New York State Certified Ombudsmen.

Duties:

Requirements:

Upon your responding to our need you will see an Application (Volunteer Waiver). Please complete it and email to Rebecca Alder at ralder@ariseinc.org

For more information: Contact Rebecca Alder 315-671-5108 

Seeking compassionate and dedicated volunteers to become certified, long-term care ombudsmen in Onondaga, Oswego, Cayuga, and Cortland counties.

As an ombudsman, you will have the opportunity to regularly visit a local nursing home or other adult care facility to advocate for residents and help ensure they are receiving quality, person-centered care.

Volunteers receive free training to become New York State Certified Ombudsmen.

Duties:

Requirements:

Upon your responding to our need you will see an Application (Volunteer Waiver). Please complete it and email to Rebecca Alder at ralder@ariseinc.org

For more information: Contact Rebecca Alder 315-671-5108 

Seeking compassionate and dedicated volunteers to become certified, long-term care ombudsmen in Onondaga, Oswego, Cayuga, and Cortland counties.

As an ombudsman, you will have the opportunity to regularly visit a local nursing home or other adult care facility to advocate for residents and help ensure they are receiving quality, person-centered care.

Volunteers receive free training to become New York State Certified Ombudsmen.

Duties:

Requirements:

Upon your responding to our need you will see an Application (Volunteer Waiver). Please complete it and email to Rebecca Alder at ralder@ariseinc.org

For more information: Contact Rebecca Alder 315-671-5108 

We are an agency that works with the resettlement of refugees and immigrants in the Syracuse area. We have a variety of volunteer opportunities that include but are not limited to:

- Teaching English as a second language

- Organization of our household items at our Warehouse 

- Setting up a welcoming environment at apartments 

- Office work that would work closely with our Case Workers

By HIS Spirit Ministries is a Christian faith-based organization that teaches youth practical skills. We provide a safe place to go after school where children can learn skills that will set them up for a life full of successes! More about our mission is available here: https://www.byhisspiritministries.com/

As part of our programming, we need knowledgeable, patient, and passionate teachers who can educate and lead our youth. Teachers would lead a small group of youth in any are they have expertise in. Some ideas include:

This is just a small list of ideas, and we'd love to hear any ideas you may have. Sessions would take place after school, and we can accommodate any level of involvement (e.g., 1 day/week or 5 days/week). Don't hesitate to reach out to Vicki Hemmer ((315) 632-5325) with any questions!

We are also looking for volunteers to assist with our organization long-term. We are a Christian faith-based organization looking to expand and move into our next phase as we teach practical skills to Syracuse's youth! There are unlimited ways you can help, and any skills you may bring are much appreciated! More information is available here if you'd like to join us! https://www.byhisspiritministries.com/

By HIS Spirit Ministries holds a thrift shop every first and third Friday and Saturday from 11am-3pm (setup starts at 10am) during the summer. Items for the thrift shop are acquired through another arm of the ministry, Clean Outs for HIS Kids, which cleans apartments and prepares them for new tenants. Proceeds from the thrift shop go towards the ministry expanding our educational programs for youth!

We need volunteers to:

This is a very easy and low-stress opportunity. We mainly operate to provide the community with useful items!

We are also looking for volunteers to assist with our organization long-term. We are a Christian faith-based organization looking to expand and move into our next phase as we teach practical skills to Syracuse's youth! There are unlimited ways you can help, and any skills you may bring are much appreciated! More information is available here if you'd like to join us! https://www.byhisspiritministries.com/

Neighbors and local business donate materials to Cortland ReUse knowing they will "find a new home" with someone in our community.  Volunteers sort, clean, and prep materials for next person!

It's fun to wade through an unpredictable collection of objects.  

Once you get to know the process, you can find your own niche.  Volunteers also setup displays, make signs, research objects, and proactively identify ways to make the reuse center more useful to people.

We aspire to create a fun, educational, and low-key experience, where volunteers are also making a meaningful contribution to our community.  We can generally work around your schedule.

We've got a serviceable website now but we're always interested in a new site! If you love making websites for free for nonprofits, we'd love to hear from you!

Meals on Wheels needs volunteers to help prepare nutritious meals for our clients.  On the job training is provided.  Please contact Tina @ Volunteer@meals.org for more info.

Dear generous volunteers.

We are the central hub for the Vietnamese in Syracuse. Although out main purpose was to connect the Vietnamese people in and around Syracuse area, we have grown to extend our hands to other community as well.  In 2019, we bought a building from one of the community member who allow us to use the building and pay off a little by little each month without any interest. One of the reasons we got the building was to allow our growing children to practice kung fu- a good way to promote health and foster a positive environment for kids to hang out. Summer is when the kids are out of school and we are hoping to have more activities in the summer for these kids. HOWEVER, our building does not have air condition and it can get really hot inside the building in the Summer. There was a central air unit but it was damaged before we obtain the building. We are looking to repair the central air unit or place couple of portable AC unit in the building to allow us to do summer activities within the building.  We hope someone out there can help us or guide us to minimize our cost. 

The Haven at Skanda is seeking strong, reliable people who love animals to feed dinner to the over 150 rescued and endangered horses, goats, pigs, mini-donkeys, chickens, and ducks who live on Skanda. 

This activity takes 2-3 hours, and occurs between 4:30-7:30pm. 

Feeding requires lifting 40-50lbs bales of hay, carrying buckets of water, and lots of maneuvering in and out of animal living areas, barns, and stalls. 

Families and groups of friends have found feeding dinner to the animals to be a great bonding activity. 

While we realize volunteers won't fully know if feeding dinner is a good fit for them until they actually do it and see what it entails, we do ask that only serious applicants apply. We are looking for people who are physically strong and capable, and also who have a reliable, consistent schedule that will allow them to commit to feeding the animals once a week. 

You can apply for an orientation on the farm here: https://www.thehavenatskanda.org/volunteer

About Us

AVS of CNY is a professional organization for those who administer volunteer programs and services in non-profit and human service agencies throughout Central New York. In addition to supporting volunteerism, AVS serves as a support network and resource to professionals in the field of Volunteer Administration.

Our Mission

Assisting one another for the betterment of all in an environment of encouragement, enthusiasm and strength.

Position Description

The Administrators of Volunteer Service (AVS) is looking for individuals to serve on its Steering Committee.  Committee members play an integral role in guiding the direction of the group.

Expectations include:

Attendance of the monthly membership meeting (every third Wednesday of month at 9am)

Attendance of the monthly steering committee meeting (every first Wednesday of month at 9am)

Participation in ongoing projects including/not limited to

-Identifying discussion topics

-Making connections with potential speakers

-Contributing to Facebook content/discussion

-Recruiting/Orienting new members

-Hosting virtual meetings

Those interested in this position should email avsofcny@gmail.com for more information and ask to join the private Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1831648180313790 

The Child Care Solutions’ Board helps to advance our mission, guide our work and enhance our agency’s visibility and effectiveness. We are currently developing a slate of Board nominees for election to 3-year terms beginning in January. Board meetings are held on the 2nd Thursday of each month (except July, August and December) from 5:00-6:30 p.m. Currently meetings are held virtually to protect the health and safety of our Board Members.

Our time frame is as follows:

The order taker calls registered users of the Madison County Office for the Aging's Grocery Shopping Program and enters their orders into the agency's Instacart and other online shopping services. The order taker also follows up after delivery of the groceries to make sure there were no problems. The order taker maintains communication with the Grocery Shopping Program coordinator. 

Training will be provided before order takers can serve. 

Must be a Madison County resident (or close), 55 or older, have internet-able devices, and have reliable internet connection. Must agree to a simple background screening. 

The Haven at Skanda's new Fund Development Committee is seeking members with fundraising and development experience, event planning experience, or a can-do attitude and a willingness to jump in and make things happen. 

If you want to support The Haven at Skanda but doing farm work is not your thing, this is a great way to help. 

Contact us for more information. 

Lead small groups on hikes on trails in park.

We need people who can drop hay down from our hay mau and bring it up a short ramp into our hay stall and stack it there. The stall holds about 50 bales, and we'd like to keep it full. Volunteers can come do as little or as much as they can. Ideally a team of 2-4 people can get the hay stall filled in less than an hour. This would be a weekly activity. 

http://www.volunteercny.org/content/www.volunteercny.org/users/user-wvsn/Leading Tour.JPG

The Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, New York, seeks volunteers to lead guided tours of the institution for adults, students and family groups. Tours are scheduled on an ongoing basis throughout the year. The role of tour guides is to walk groups through the Museum, sharing the history and lasting impact of the Erie Canal, the history of New York State, and the history and significance of the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the Museum's most important artifact. Tour guides provide outreach to schools, community centers, retirement communities, places of worship, and others who express interest in the Erie Canal. 

No prior experience is necessary, and tour guide opportunities are scheduled on an individual basis. Please complete and return the application attached here to educator@eriecanalmuseum.org. For more information, call 315-471-0593, extension 15.

Kitchen volunteers work under the supervision of our chef daily from 8AM to approx 11AM.

Delivery hours vary according to delivery route but most are completed from 11AM to approx. 1PM.

Meal making is a meaningful way to support our guests as they navigate stressful and oftentimes pivotal moments of life. We are looking for individuals or groups of volunteers who would like to provide a meal for our guests on a monthly basis or occasionally.  As a meal maker you are welcome to cook in our kitchen, or prepare a meal at your home to drop off. This is a great opportunity for students to acquire service hours and for families looking to make an impact in the community together. If you are a restaurant owner or just a foodie in general, you may even consider donating one of your favorite meals! If showing love through food is your thing, we invite you to join our meal making team! 

Sarah's Guest House is looking for individuals to provide guests transportation to and from their medical appointments and hospital visits. Valid driver's license and vehicle required.

Sarah's Guest House is looking for individuals as well as small or large-sized groups to help with outdoor cleanup. Tasks include gardening and raking leaves.

The Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, New York, seeks volunteers to represent the museum at community events by providing attendees with information about the museum, answering questions, and distributing educational materials. This is one of many ways in which an individual can help the Erie Canal Museum showcase the lasting impact of the Erie Canal, the history of New York State, and the history and significance of the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the Museum's most important artifact. 

No prior experience is necessary, and tour guide opportunities are scheduled on an individual basis. Please complete and return the application attached here to educator@eriecanalmuseum.org. For more information, call 315-471-0593, extension 15.

The Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, New York, seeks volunteers to assist on the day of special events and help with set-up, greeting attendees, answering questions, recruiting volunteers for various programs, crowd management and/or setting up and tearing down equipment. This is one of many ways in which an individual can help the Erie Canal Museum showcase the lasting impact of the Erie Canal, the history of New York State, and the history and significance of the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the Museum's most important artifact. 

No prior experience is necessary, and tour guide opportunities are scheduled on an individual basis. Please complete and return the application attached here to educator@eriecanalmuseum.org. For more information, call 315-471-0593, extension 15.

The Erie Canal Museum in downtown Syracuse, New York, seeks volunteers to Assist museum staff in special projects related to the creation of new exhibitions and educational materials. This offers a unique way to interact with the museum’s fascinating collection and history. Arrangements can be made for virtual opportunities in this field. Some opportunities for remote work. This is one of many ways in which an individual can help the Erie Canal Museum showcase the lasting impact of the Erie Canal, the history of New York State, and the history and significance of the 1850 National Register Weighlock Building, the Museum's most important artifact. 

No prior experience is necessary, and tour guide opportunities are scheduled on an individual basis. Please complete and return the application attached here to educator@eriecanalmuseum.org. For more information, call 315-471-0593, extension 15.

Here at the Center for Better Bones we frequently film health education videos regarding bone health and nutrition. We are looking for someone to help with both filming and editing videos for our website. In addition, we would be interested in someone with doodling or drawing skills to help us film some animated style educational videos. While not mandatory, this would be a bonus. 

This is a great opportunity for a student looking for more experience, or for someone looking for a rewarding hobby. You will learn about nutrition science and health in the process. 

Help museum staff with tasks ranging from the set-up of new exhibitions to light cleaning work and everything in between, including working on our lovely garden! Perfect for people who like to work with their hands or would prefer a more “behind the scenes” role.

Seeking Volunteers to answer our Web Chat Support Line on the evenings and weekends, providing emotional support & information to chatters. This is a "Remote" opportunity, meaning you will be answering our chat line from the comfort of your own home! 

***Training during COVID may include mostly zoom meetings and webinars. However, some in person training may be required to observe calls on our support line.***

Shifts are Monday-Friday, 6pm to 11:00pm or Saturday and Sunday 8:30am to 1:00pm, 1:00pm to 6:00pm, or 6:00pm to 11:00pm. 

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 and to apply: https://www.verahouse.org/how-can-i-help/volunteer 

Sexual Assault Volunteer Advocate: Responding to sexual assault victims at area hospitals and providing emotional support & information. Monday-Friday from 6 pm to midnight, midnight to 7 am, & Saturday and Sunday 6 hour shifts. There are also a limited number of daytime shifts from 8:30-5 available. 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 and to apply: https://www.verahouse.org/how-can-i-help/volunteer 

Seeking Volunteers to answer our 24-Hour Support Line during the day and providing emotional support & information to callers. Monday-Friday, 8:30-1 or 12:30-5, at our Administrative Office. 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 and to apply: https://www.verahouse.org/how-can-i-help/volunteer 

Spend some time helping us with our health research and public education efforts and you will learn a great deal about health promotion and modern nutrition. We like to do short videos daily with research news updates and are looking for computer capable folks.  We offer a fun place to volunteer where you can learn and grow while serving a good cause.

The Better Bones Foundation is looking for an individual excited to learn more about nutrition.  This individual would work alongside Dr. Susan Brown researching online the latest nutrition research on selected topics related to bone and whole body health. 

Hours are flexible. including optional winter weekend research time.  This is a great opportunity for college students and other computer savvy individuals with knowledge of, or interest in, nutrition and health.  

The Better Bones Foundation is looking for a 1-2 volunteers to assist with publicity. We are looking for someone with knowledge of social media and some ability to make links that will enhance our visibility and service. We would like 1-2 people who are interested in learning about and helping us share the amazing benefits of diet and health.

Community Volunteer Advocates become matched with one of our Proteges (an individual with a developmental disability) to share there time and create friendships. There are no minimum requirements or expectations on the duration of the match. The goal is help out by sharing your time with someone who is dealing with social isolation. 

Description of Volunteer’s Duties:

Hospice Volunteers provide a valuable service to the Hospice program. As a member of the Hospice program, Hospice Volunteers provide services and support to individuals with terminal illness and their families, and/or provide administrative support to the Hospice Program. Hospice Volunteer assignments are unpaid.

 Fund Raising Volunteers:

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for CAMP HEALING HEARTS! 

Family Caregiver Volunteer Duties:

Administrative Support Volunteer Duties:

REQUIRED FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS:

Call the Hospice of CNY & HFL Volunteer Coordinators -Michele Devlin or Pennie Stagnitta for more details about Hospice Volunteer opportunities 315-634-1100

Join a grassroots initiative to make CNY more energy efficient! HeatSmart CNY is a community campaign to help people more efficiently heat and cool their homes through air sealing, insulation, and heat pump installation. Together, we are building our local economy, reducing our environmental impact, and making homes healthier and more comfortable. Join our team of volunteers to assist in spreading the word! Volunteers attend HeatSmart CNY workshops, tabling events, and open houses based on their availability and help with event outreach. Visit heatsmartcny.org for more details on the program.

Contact Lindsay Speer, HeatSmart CNY Campaign Manager, at lindsay@allianceforagreeneconomy.org or 315-383-7210 if you are interested in volunteering.