Make an impact in your community
During Global Days of Service, University of Rochester alumni, parents, and friends come together to serve their local communities.
There are two ways to get involved:
- Suggest a service project and take the lead. You pick the project; we help spread the word among the Rochester networks.
- Join a service project in your community, led by a fellow Yellowjacket.
Not only are you helping to make your community better, you also get to spend that time with other Rochester alumni.
Have an idea for a service project?
Service projects can be in-person or virtual, offered throughout the year, from September through May.
In-person options can include local partnerships with a food bank or park clean-up, while virtual options could involve collecting donations for a clothing drive or writing cards to support an organization.
Want to join a service project?
Cary, NC
September 6, 2025 | 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
Volunteer at Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve and help the environment by assisting with trail upkeep.
Rochester, NY
November 3, 2025 | 5:00–7:00 p.m. (ET)
Pencils & Paper Program at JFS Rochester
Volunteers will help prepare school supplies for an upcoming event that provides free classroom materials to educators.
Share your service!
Please share your experience with us so we can follow up.
Upload your photos to the 2025 Global Days of Service album. Be sure to tag us (@University of Rochester Alumni) in your public posts on social media.
Looking for inspo? View photos from previous years.
A rich history
During first-year orientation, undergraduate students at both the River Campus and Eastman School of Music quickly learn the University motto of Meliora, meaning “ever better” through participation in a day of service in the Rochester community.
Known on the River Campus since 1988 as Wilson Day, named after the family of Joseph C. Wilson ’31, and George Eastman Day of Service at the Eastman School of Music after George Eastman, this has instilled a tradition of service within the University community.
Questions?
Contact Hannah Ramsey, director, regional volunteers and programs, at hannah.ramsey@rochester.edu.