Volunteer opportunities

Make a difference through service

The Center for Volunteerism and Social Action’s volunteer programs empower students to give back and grow through meaningful service experiences. Whether you're looking to get involved on campus, support local nonprofits or engage in regional and national service initiatives, we’re here to help you find the right fit.

Browse current volunteer opportunities through our online volunteer portal, GivePulse, or join one of our days of service — high-impact events that bring Vandals together to make a real difference.

Support the Vandal community

University of Idaho, the Department of Student Involvement and the Center for Volunteerism and Social Action regularly offer ways to connect with and give back to the Vandal Family — from volunteering at our campus food pantry to joining our fall semester day of service, SYNC.

See Your New Community (SYNC) is our annual welcome-week tradition that invites incoming students to engage with the Palouse region through hands-on service. Held the Saturday before classes start, SYNC gives new Vandals the opportunity to explore their new surroundings, meet fellow students and make a positive impact by volunteering with local community partners.

Host a SYNC volunteer project

Community organizations within a 35-mile radius of our Moscow campus are invited to participate in SYNC by hosting student volunteers. If your organization is interested in getting involved, please contact:

Sandra Kelly
Leadership and volunteer programs coordinator 
skelly@uidaho.edu

Find local volunteer opportunities through GivePulse

GivePulse is University of Idaho’s go-to platform for connecting students with impactful volunteer opportunities in Moscow and the surrounding communities. This free, easy-to-use tool helps students and local organizations post, find and track service events — making it simple to get involved and make a measurable impact.

Whether you're looking to give back, explore service-learning opportunities or fulfill volunteer hour requirements, GivePulse makes it easy to find your place to serve.

How to use GivePulse as a student or volunteer

Use GivePulse to find and register for local volunteer events.

How to use GivePulse as a volunteer organization

Create a organizational profile, publish your events and recruit volunteers.

Auxillary Services spaces on campus

Volunteer at the Vandal Food Pantry

Support the Vandal Food Pantry by assisting with our Mobile Pantry events and helping manage the main pantry.

Learn more about VFP volunteer opportunities

Participate in an Alternative Service Break trip

Alternative Service Break (ASB) programs offer community-driven service experiences that go beyond the classroom. These trips provide students with opportunities to deepen their empathy, sense of purpose and commitment to becoming ethical, responsible global citizens.

Since 2001, hundreds of Vandals have dedicated their school breaks to service, making a lasting impact in communities near and far.

ASB programs are grounded in the following core principles:

  • Fair trade learning – ensuring ethical and reciprocal engagement with partner communities.
  • Asset-based community development – building on community strengths rather than focusing on deficits.
  • Social change model – empowering students to lead through collaboration and inclusion.
  • Critical leadership development – fostering thoughtful, socially aware leaders.

Explore the different types of ASB trips

Alternative Service Break (ASB) trips are offered year-round and vary in length, location and cost, making it easy to find an opportunity that fits your schedule and interests.  

  • Day ASB: Participate in single-day service projects right here on the Palouse. These trips are always free and provide a great way to give back alongside local community partners.
  • Weekend ASB: Immerse yourself in a short-term service experience within a five-hour drive of Moscow. Three weekend trips are offered each semester and all are free for students.
  • Winter ASB: Travel internationally during a two-week service trip after the winter holidays and before the spring semester begins. While the typical cost is around $1,500, scholarships are available to help cover expenses.
  • Spring ASB: Spend your spring break volunteering in regional communities across Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Montana and Wyoming. These experiences cost approximately $150, with funding support available.
  • Summer ASB: Join fellow students for a 10-day national service trip during the first or second week after spring commencement. These trips offer a unique way to cap off your academic year by making a meaningful impact.

Learn more about ASB programs

Interested in joining an Alternative Service Break trip? Check out the events calendar below to find upcoming info sessions and trip dates.

Have questions or want to talk with someone directly? Reach out to us anytime at volunteer@uidaho.edu — we’re happy to help!