All Syracuse University and SUNY-ESF students should work to engage with the city through volunteering, but they should be aware of what positive engagement looks like. The involvement fair is around the corner, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with how to be the best possible volunteer in Syracuse.

Getting involved might seem easy but there are a few things to keep in mind to do it effectively.

1. Know what time you have to dedicate

Don’t over commit to a community organization. The worst thing you could do would be to leave an organization in need. One easy thing students can do is ask clubs about time commitments to be aware of the club’s expectations.

“[Nonprofits] want to know that you are coming when you say you’re coming,” said Pamela Heintz, director of SU’s Mary Anne Shaw Center for Public and Community Service.

2. Research where you’ll be going

A knowledge of the organization will make your impact as a volunteer greater. Syeisha Byrd, director of the university’s Office of Engagement Programs, told students in orientation to find answers.

What’s the program? Where does it take place? What is the population you’re going to be working with? Students often overlook dress codes and don’t wear appropriate clothing — avoid your Gucci sandals while cleaning up the neighborhood.

3. Reflect, get feedback

Byrd hosted a few reflection dinners last semester in which volunteers could talk about their experiences. It is important to ask for feedback from the non-profit, not just volunteer and move on. Think about how you could be a better volunteer the next time.

4. Go in a small group

Too many volunteers can overwhelm an organization, and many do not have the physical space to accommodate large numbers. If you think about the space you’re occupying at that organization, you will avoid a bad volunteer experience.

“There is no place here that can really take a group of 10 volunteers. Go with a smaller group the first time, and scope it out,” Heitz said.

5. Avoid a savior mindset

Byrd said students get much more from a volunteer experience then they ever gave. Instead of thinking about how you can help those who live in poverty, identify the positives in the community and help support them. A growth mindset results in a better volunteer.

6. Observe, observe, observe

You have to watch for a while, Heitz and Byrd said. Go in knowing you know nothing, and learn. A volunteer may see problems with an organization, but it’s not your place to judge or complain.

Syracuse is a vibrant city. Students should include it in their college experience. But, we must do so intentionally. These tips will help students become better volunteers this academic school year. When you go to the involvement fair on Wednesday, keep in mind how you can ask the important questions and be an aware volunteer.

Published on September 3, 2018 at 11:18 pm