The Empire State Service Corps, an initiative through SUNY, at Binghamton University connects students with paid public service opportunities that build professional skills, strengthen communities, and address local needs. Through hands-on service with campus and community organizations, students gain meaningful experience while making a difference across the local community and beyond.
Since launching at Binghamton University, the program has grown significantly, from 35 students in 2024–2025 to an expected 100 students in 2026–2027. This growth has expanded both student participation and the number of community organizations benefiting from dedicated student service. For 2026–2027, Binghamton University’s corps members are contributing to more than 30,000 hours of service across 38 host sites, supported by a dedicated, full-time Service Corps campus coordinator.
How Does the Empire State Service Corps Work?
Selected SUNY students complete 300 hours of paid public service during the academic year, typically serving approximately 10 hours per week at an on-campus or community-based host site. Students are placed within a cohort based on their interests and the needs of available host sites.
Impact Areas
- Civic Engagement
Students support efforts that strengthen democratic participation and community connection.
Opportunities may include:
- Voter registration and nonpartisan voter outreach
- Civil dialogue and discourse initiatives
- Community engagement and education
- Environmental Stewardship
Students contribute to projects that promote sustainability and environmental well-being.
Opportunities may include:
- Community gardens and urban agriculture
- Sustainability education and outreach
- Environmental stewardship projects
- Climate action initiatives
- Education
Students support children and young people through educational programming, mentoring, and academic support.
Opportunities may include:
- Early childhood education
- K-12 tutoring
- Student success coaching
- Mentoring and youth development
- Healthy Futures
Students work with organizations and programs addressing health, wellness, food access, and quality of life.
Opportunities may include:
- Food insecurity and SNAP/basic needs outreach
- Independent living support
- Mental health and wellness initiatives
- Support for justice-impacted individuals
- Economic Opportunities
Students support programs that help individuals and families access resources and opportunities that promote financial stability and economic mobility.
Opportunities may include:
- FAFSA and financial aid outreach
- Financial literacy and education
- Connecting community members with economic resources
- Supporting programs that address barriers to economic opportunity
What Students Gain
The SUNY Service Corps is more than a paid service placement. Students gain hands-on experience, develop professional and leadership skills, and build relationships with community organizations while contributing to meaningful work.
In addition to their service hours, SUNY Service Corps members participate as part of a cohort of students committed to public service. The program provides opportunities to connect with peers, reflect on their service experiences, and develop skills that can support their future careers and continued community engagement.
Eligible 2026–2027 SUNY Service Corps members may also participate in AmeriCorps and earn additional benefits, including an education award of up to $1,400 upon completion of the required 300 service hours.
Join the Empire State Service Corps
Interested in becoming an SUNY Service Corps member or hosting a student?
Contact the Center for Community Engagement's Empire State Service Corps Coordinator to learn more about the Empire State Service Corps at Binghamton University.
Andrew Clark
Empire State Service Corps Coordinator
aclark17@binghamton.edu