Volunteering

Make a difference for others and yourself.

Use your time and skills to support your community and the people who need it most. Your service helps organizations thrive and creates a real impact. Along the way, you will grow personally, gain new experiences, and make a difference in your own life.
 

How Volunteering Works

STEP 1: Share Your Interest

Complete the interest form to tell us about the causes you care about, your availability, and the type of service you are looking for. This helps the Civic Engagement team connect you with the right opportunity. 

STEP 2: Get Connected

Due to government regulations some organizations may require you to complete training or go through a background check (fingerprinting) before you can start volunteering.  This is a painless process and something you should clarify with the organization supervisor on your first day/meeting with them.

STEP 3: Complete Onboarding Requirements

  • Get to know your clients to learn more about them! Here are some ideas:
    • Introduce yourself. Tell your client about yourself.
    • Encourage your client to tell you about little bit about them (favorite hobbies, music, sports, etc.)
    • Ask creative and open-ended questions (ex.– If you could do anything with your free time, what would you do? If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?)
  • Regular attendance is critical when developing a trusting relationship and ensures a rewarding experience for both you and the client.

STEP 4: Get Connected

Begin your service and build meaningful connections. Introduce yourself, learn about the people you serve, and ask open-ended questions to create positive interactions. Regular attendance and reliability are key to developing trust and having a rewarding experience for both you and the community.

In Case of an Emergency:

If you are in the community, summon help and call 911. You can also call Campus Safety at 315-498-2311.

If you have any doubts about safety, or need to report any suspicions of abuse, neglect, or criminal activity, immediately consult with your site supervisor, professor, Service Learning Coordinator, or the Civic Engagement Department.

Volunteer Safety Guidelines

  • Use the following steps to help ensure your safety while volunteering:
  • Know who your site supervisor is and who to contact if a concern or emergency arises.
  • Do not take responsibility for opening or closing the site for the day.
  • Bring identification and a small amount of cash if needed, but leave credit cards, large amounts of money, and valuables at home.
  • Report any injury that occurs during service activities to the agency immediately.
  • Use respectful, professional language and avoid communication that could be perceived as inappropriate or harassing.
  • Do not offer your home as shelter for clients.
  • Do not transport clients in your personal vehicle.
  • Share your service site’s phone number and your schedule with a trusted friend or family member.
  • Avoid handling or being responsible for agency funds.
  • Only share personal contact information with your supervisor. Do not share it with clients, other volunteers, or staff.
  • Dress appropriately for the site and avoid wearing expensive or excessive jewelry.
  • Avoid one-on-one situations that isolate you from supervised areas.
  • Limit your service activities to approved site locations.
  • Familiarize yourself with the site’s neighborhood and surroundings.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and carry yourself confidently.
  • Do not plan off-site activities with clients.
  • If you drive yourself, ensure you have directions and that your vehicle is in safe working condition.
     

What is the appropriate dress while completing my volunteer hours?

Traditionally, students are expected to dress in neat, professional attire. Personal cleanliness and a polished appearance are important for maintaining a professional image. However, you should check with your agency and site placement about their specific dress code, as requirements may vary depending on your activities. Remember, when you serve in the community, you represent Onondaga Community College.
 

What if I don’t have my own transportation?

OCC does not provide transportation at this time. However, many agency sites are easily accessible via the Centro bus route to and from the OCC campus. If you need help identifying a site accessible by bus, contact the Civic Engagement Center to schedule an appointment.
 

If I already volunteer through student groups or organizations on campus, does that service count?

Yes! We want to hear about the service you are already doing! Tell us how you got involved, what you are working on, and what keeps you motivated. Complete the survey to share your experiences with us and help highlight the ways students across campus are giving back, making an impact, and building a more engaged and compassionate community. Your contribution matters and can inspire others to get involved too.


Helpful Articles

How to Make the Most of Your Volunteer Experience