CISV could not exist without our global community of dedicated volunteers. Our volunteers are of all ages and from all nationalities and backgrounds — what they have in common is their enthusiasm and commitment. Our opportunities for volunteering range from helping run our local chapter to staffing one of our programs to getting involved as an international committee member. Whatever their role, our volunteers make an active contribution to CISV and towards a more just and peaceful world.
Important things that members should know about our Chapterʼs work:
- CISV is about more than travel. Although we recognize that travel programs are a key aspect of our organization, we unfortunately only receive a limited number of invitations, and not all members are able to participate in all programs.
- In order to receive invitations to participate in International Camps, our Chapter is required to host programs locally. The more we host, the more invitations our members will receive.
- As a Chapter, we strive to host two programs every four years. That makes the Chapter eligible for a higher number of International invites.
- The only way we can host programs is if we have a motivated volunteer base and if we raise money.
- Hosting an International program in NYC costs approximately $150,000–$200,000, and Mosaic Faces of New York costs about $30,000. That doesn’t include a huge group effort by the people involved in the organization. Volunteers are needed for everything, from coordinating airport pick-ups to helping set up the campsites.
- The Chapter retains, from program fees and membership dues, approximately $25,000 yearly. That means the Chapter must raise over $100,000 annually, as well as cultivate our volunteer group.
Volunteers Needed!
One of the most remarkable traits of CISV is that it is solely volunteer-run at the local level. In a single year, CISV hosts programs for about 7,000 participants worldwide. That means that at least double the number of people were involved in helping things run smoothly, both on the local and international levels.
However, it is often that we find ourselves short of hands, even with a sizable chapter. Sometimes it can be hard to convince others just how valuable these national and international experiences are for our delegates, as many of the rewards only come to light much later in their lives. The only way the NY Chapter will continue its successful trajectory is with the help of new and dedicated volunteers. It is only with the active participation of parents and youth that our organization will be around for the benefit of future generations. There are many volunteer opportunities, all equally important.
Our volunteer opportunities page gives an overall view of what it takes to keep our Chapter running and an understanding of our needs. Knowing we are all connected and what needs to be done in order for our programs and local activities to function will hopefully inspire you to take action. We operate like a co-op.
There are several degrees of involvement. Some jobs require you to donate a little bit of your time throughout the year, and some require you to donate your time by working intensely on one event. All of them listed, however, will need to be done.
Volunteering with the CISV New York Chapter is a perfect way to give back to your community and…
- Have fun.
- Use your skills.
- Develop new skills.
- Help us grow the Chapter so we can offer CISV programs to more kids and families in the New York area.
- Live the CISV values of peace education, community service and friendship.
CLICK HERE to see volunteer opportunities with CISV NY.
To match your skills and interests to the Chapter’s needs, please read the 2024 Volunteer Handout and pick a position.