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The NYU Civic Team has its hopes set high, hoping to have 1,000 active volunteers. But currently, at 250 members, they're still 750 students shy.
Since 1989, the Civic Team has provided volunteer and internship opportunities at various community service agencies around the city. Members choose from 32 different partner-agencies that focus on supporting at-risk youth, health and wellness, senior citizens, homeless people, or social welfare government offices.
Every week, volunteers are required to give at least two hours to community service.
"It has been a bit challenging to encourage students to make the weekly commitment," said Diana Lugo-Martinez, program administrator of the Civic Engagement for the Office of Student Activities. "But we are hopeful that once schedules are finalized, students will be happy to give some of their time to an agency."
The Peer Health Exchange has the most volunteers — 94 — compared to the other agencies affiliated with the Civic Team.
LSP sophomore Briana Camacho, a Civic Team volunteer working with Peer Health Exchange, described her experience as rewarding.
"I would go to a high school in the city that didn't offer health education and give a workshop on tobacco use," she said. "I brought a black lung of a pig to give a really shocking visual of the affects of smoking. I was surprised at how much the kids didn't know about it."
According to Civic Team co-Chair Linda Moon, the group's advisory board is planning to better promote the Civic Team at the university.
"We are planning to reach out to residence halls, commuter students, the Greek life and particular schools and programs," Moon said.
The board is also planning many one-day service projects throughout the year for students to take part in.
"Our goal is to help the NYU community understand the importance of service, and the impact we can have on ourselves and our community," Moon said.
Supervisor of the University Settlement Society Mike Gianakos said the Civic Team plays an important role as a catalyst for growth in the development of the youth involved.
"NYU Civic volunteers have a huge impact on the lives of our youth by providing a structure within academic support all the while creating a bond that exceeds the walls of any classroom," he said.
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