Volunteer Opportunities in Syracuse

Adults 50 and better are finding new purpose through service with the Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC). Designed for those in their “encore years,” IVC offers volunteer opportunities based on talents and life experience with local nonprofits, while growing spiritually and building meaningful connections along the way.

If you’re recently retired, working part-time, or simply ready to give back in a deeper way, IVC members are matched with organizations that need their compassion and reliability. Most IVC members volunteer one or two days a week during the academic year, from September through June. We partner with local nonprofits to bring the right supporters to their community.

How We Serve in Syracuse, NY

IVC Syracuse partners with a variety of nonprofit organizations throughout Central New York. Corps members are placed in roles based on their skills and interests, providing meaningful volunteer help in areas such as:

  • Education and tutoring
  • Housing and homelessness services
  • Refugee and immigrant support
  • Community outreach and advocacy
  • Food distribution and nutrition programs
  • Elder care and companionship
  • Administrative and program support

Join us for behind-the-scenes support or direct interaction. IVC will help you find a service role where you can make a difference. Specific, professional training isn’t needed, just a willingness to serve others and grow. IVC brings volunteers with experience, dedication, and compassion to help those in need.

Jane Elizabeth Brown,
Regional Director

Le Moyne College
Loyola Jesuit Residence
1419 Salt Springs Rd
Syracuse, NY 13214
315-445-4610
syracuse@ivcusa.org

How to Get Involved with the Ignatian Volunteer Corps

Joining IVC Syracuse is a thoughtful and supported process designed to help you make the most of your service.We’ll be with you every step of the way. To get involved, follow these steps:

  1. Reach Out: Fill out our interest form or contact our Regional Director to start the conversation.
  2. Discern: Through conversation, we’ll learn about your background, interests, and availability, and discern a match for you with a nonprofit that needs your help.
  3. Start Serving: Upon acceptance to the program, you can serve one or two days a week, making a consistent impact while enjoying flexibility.
  4. Reflect and Grow: Join our community gatherings to connect, reflect, and deepen your experience.
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Request IVC Your Nonprofit

IVC Syracuse partners with local organizations to place adults over 50 in service roles that strengthen your capacity and extend your mission. Our corps members volunteer decades of professional and personal experience, and a sincere desire to serve with humility, faith, and consistency.

As a partner organization, you’ll receive:

  • Volunteers who serve 1–2 days/week during the academic year
  • Thoughtfully matched service members who align with your mission
  • Ongoing support from IVC’s regional leadership
  • A reliable presence that helps you plan and grow
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Why Choose IVC Syracuse?

IVC isn’t just an opportunity to serve—it’s a community rooted in purpose and faith. In addition to their service, corps members gather each month for reflection and prayer, with the option of one-on-one spiritual support. This Ignatian approach to service—finding God in all things—sets IVC apart from other opportunities.

By bringing professional and life experience to their service, corps members strengthen nonprofit partners and help create a more just society. Many members tell us they receive even more than they give, finding deep meaning in both their service and their shared community.

Here’s what makes IVC unique in Syracuse:

  • Thoughtful Matching: We take time to know you and our nonprofit partners to ensure a placement that aligns with your skills, passions, and values.
  • Experienced Members: Corps members bring a lifetime of professional and personal experience, adding real value to the organizations they serve.
  • Spiritual Growth: Monthly reflection gatherings and retreats, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, help connect service with deeper meaning.
  • Dependable Commitment: Members serve one or two days a week for a full academic year, providing consistency partner organizations can count on.
  • Community Connection: You’ll join a welcoming group of peers who share your commitment to service, reflection, and justice.

Explore Stories of Service

Experience Making a Difference in Syracuse

IVC Syracuse is here to help you take the next step.

Contact IVC Syracuse Today