The state is launching the Empire State Service Corps Program, announced as the sixth proposal from the 2024 State of the State agenda. Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado will spearhead the initiative in partnership with the State University of New York to promote paid civic and service opportunities. About 500 service positions will be created across SUNY’s colleges and universities, funded by a $2.75 million expansion of community service endeavors.
The application for the program will open in the coming weeks and the first Empire State Service Corps members will begin during the Fall 2024 semester.
Students participating in the program will commit to dedicating at least 300 hours a year to engaging in community service and will convene regularly to share and learn from each other’s experiences.
The Empire State Service Corps builds on SUNY’s existing FAFSA Corps, which mobilizes current SUNY students to help prospective students and their families complete the updated federal application for college financial aid, and the Climate Corps, which offers students paid internship opportunities to gain valuable experience, knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the clean technology, energy, circular economy and environmental sectors at state agencies with environmental and sustainability missions. SUNY is committed to expanding service opportunities across its 64 campuses as part of its systemwide commitment to civic education and engagement.
“The Empire State Service Corps Program will inspire students to answer the honorable call of public service,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re offering students the opportunity to see firsthand how public service helps their communities and with Lieutenant Governor Delgado overseeing the Office of Service and Civic Engagement, we’re building the next generation of local leaders who will help New York State thrive.”
