8 Ways to Give Back at Stony Brook University

There are many ways to give back to Stony Brook University, from mentoring a student to helping stock a food pantry to making a gift that will support a student scholarship, pediatric research, or a performing arts or athletics program.   

And while the holiday season is a great time to think about ways to give back, the following ideas can be put into action all year long:

Alumni Admissions Ambassador 
Recruit future Seawolves! Volunteer at college fairs and events to meet prospective students and even participate in letter-writing campaigns. If you loved your time at Stony Brook, this program can help you spread the word and attract future students.

Food Pantry Donations
Generous support from community members makes it possible for the Stony Brook University Food Pantry to serve students, faculty, and staff who are food insecure or at risk of food insecurity. Donations are needed year-round and can be made in person, by mail, or online. Students can also volunteer each semester.

Alumni Mentoring 
Our alumni volunteers give back in so many ways. You can mentor students, attend a networking event, host a lecture, or even host an alumni event in your area. We know you’re busy, so you can choose how much time you can dedicate and how you would like to participate. 

Online Gifts
There are countless ways to give to Stony Brook. However you decide to give, know that it can and will support your chosen area: scholarships, research, Stony Brook Medicine, athletics, and more. 

Long Island Veterans 
Give back to veterans who fought to preserve our freedom by volunteering at the Long Island State Veterans Home. Those interested can apply, and they will receive training.

Stony Brook Stitchers
If you love to knit, crochet, sew, or quilt, volunteer with the Stony Brook Stitchers, a group that donates handmade baby and adult hats, lap blankets, Afghans, christening outfits, prayer shawls, memory pouches, and baby caps to patients at Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook Cancer Center, and the Long Island State Veterans Home.

Southampton Hospital
Stony Brook Southampton Hospital offers five different volunteer opportunities. Many people find ways to give back to patients, from pet therapy to the Ambassador Escort program.

Stony Brook University Hospital 
Stony Brook University Hospital has volunteer opportunities to help provide much-appreciated assistance that contributes to the well-being of patients and their families. Explore all available positions and apply on Stony Brook Medicine’s website. 

Other on-campus volunteer programs are available for students, faculty, staff, and community members. Find the one that interests you the most. 

Of course, you can always join us for our annual Giving Day – March 27, 2024. It’s a day when the Stony Brook community comes together to support programs across campus, including scholarships. Last year, nearly 3,000 students, alumni, faculty, staff and friends from around the world contributed gifts totaling more than $800,000.

-Christine McGrath