Voting and Civic Participation
Civic Engagement Volunteer Opportunities & Events (Public and Private Sector)
John Jay students and community members are dedicated to the mission of service. For nearly 60 years, our students, alumni, faculty and staff have worked in various settings and roles, making a difference in their communities through volunteer service and unpaid internships. Our partnerships are valued and run deep.
Non-citizens and others ineligible to vote can still be involved and play a role in their communities and participate in public advocacy for issues of concern. Further, these members of our community can encourage those who have the right to vote to exercise it in all elections.
Beyond election day, there are ways to stay informed and active on campus and in your community.
Below is a list of organizations that advance volunteer service through numerous activities. The non-exhaustive list is intended to be a guide and is provided to encourage the continuation of our legacy of service.
New York City Based:
Court Appointed Special Advocate NYC
NYC Civic Engagement Commission
NYC Council Participatory Budgeting
NYC Department of Youth & Community Development
NYC Parks Volunteer Opportunities
NYC Public Service Internships
New York State Focus:
New York Voluntary Organizations Active In Disaster
National Focus:
John Jay Students, Staff & Faculty Volunteering at the 2023 Bone Marrow Drive in Honor of 9/11
Non-Partisan Voting/Election Volunteer Opportunities
John Jay College educates students to be fierce advocates for justice and to be engaged members of society. Our strategic plan demonstrates the College’s commitment to foster civic engagement in various dimensions, including voter participation. The College, through the Office of External Affairs, arranges for elected officials, thought leaders, and partner organizations to interact with students and other community members to inform and educate about current issues and leadership, encourage public service opportunities and community involvement, and advance professional outcomes. These experiences also highlight the importance of participating in our Democracy as informed voters and advocates to help shape policies that affect their daily lives and futures.
For those ineligible to vote, you can still play an important role by encouraging a voting culture around campus and elsewhere and urging those who are able to vote to exercise that privilege. Further, you can help educate friends and others about policy decisions that affect you and why it is important to be involved. Additionally, you can attend public meetings, become active in civic organizations and voice your opinions and advocate for policy initiatives.
Below is a listing of popular non-partisan organizations, but it is not an exhaustive guide. These groups, that focus on Participatory Democracy and increasing access to the democratic process for students and young people, the power of voting for communities of color and others, and more, have engaged with our students. The organizations offer a wide variety of resources and educational opportunities.
For more information about voting and volunteer opportunities related to elections, visit the John Jay College Rock the Vote Website: https://www.jjay.cuny.edu/about/governance-senior-leadership/office-external-affairs/rock-vote