The SUNY Empire State Service Corps connects SUNY students with paid public service opportunities in communities across New York State. SUNY Service Corps members are students enrolled in SUNY contract colleges who are placed at host sites to engage deeply with local communities while strengthening their civic responsibility and gaining valuable professional experience. Host sites gain valuable support contributing to meaningful community impact.  

Students serve up to 300 hours at their host site over the course of an academic year and/or summer. 

There is no cost to participate as a host site—all students are paid an hourly rate of $16 which is fully covered by the program. 

Eligible students may also participate in AmeriCorps, providing an opportunity to earn a post-service education award. 

Host sites must align with one of the program’s six service cohorts. A full list of cohorts is available on the SUNY Empire State Service Corps website. 

Host organizations play a key role in ensuring a meaningful experience for students. Expectations include: 

• Designate a supervisor and primary point of contact 

• Submit signed contract annually to maintain employer eligibility

• Develop meaningful projects aligned with organizational goals 

• Provide regular supervision, communication, and mentorship 

• Offer a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment 

• Support flexible scheduling that accommodates academic and program requirements 

• Provide a structured onboarding/orientation experience 

• Confirm capacity to support up to 300 student work hours 

Host sites must be within the Tompkins County area for academic year consideration. 

Please complete the application to be considered as a possible host site for Empire State Service Corps Members during the 2026-27 academic year.

The academic year employment term is September 1, 2026 – May 15, 2027. 

Student placement with host sites is limited and based on student interest.  

Student applications are reviewed and matched with host sites on a rolling basis, depending on availability.