Faculty and Staff Volunteering
Pitt aspires to be a university that strengthens our communities. By volunteering--whether with your time, your energy, or your resources, we deepen our commitment as a partner in our region's progress and in how we can make a difference in the well-being of our neighbors. Help us carry out the institutional value of strengthening communities.
How to Volunteer
Volunteering is a meaningful way to make a difference in the communities in which we live, work, and play. While faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in service and volunteerism opportunities, volunteering is not a requirement of your employment at Pitt.
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You can learn more about available opportunities, and register, via the Pitt volunteer portal.
Volunteer Time Guidelines
Faculty may volunteer as many hours as their time and inclination allows.
Staff are eligible to receive paid time off each month to participate in community service or volunteer activities. Full-time regular staff members may use up to 7.5 hours during regular working hours per month; part-time regular staff members are eligible for pro-rated volunteer time. For more information, including eligibility, how to record volunteer time on your time card, and frequently asked questions, please visit the Volunteer and Professional Development Time Guidelines on the Office of Human Resources website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find volunteer opportunities through the University?
Visit the PittServes website to find all available service opportunities.
What is required to volunteer?
Each volunteer opportunity has different requirements. Some require that you complete a specific training, some require that you have particular clearances or background checks. Once you’ve completed the volunteer intake form, a member of Pitt's volunteer management team will respond to your intake submission within 24 hours and provide you with all the necessary information you'll need about your volunteer selection, including training that is required.
What kinds of volunteer opportunities are available?
Community partners have identified a variety of one-time, project-based, and weekly opportunities for volunteers to provide in-person, no-contact transportation, or remote support. All available opportunities are on the PittServes website.
Are there remote opportunities to volunteer?
Yes! You can specify a search for remote opportunities within the volunteer registration survey.
I'm a Pitt staff member. Do I need to participate in University-approved opportunities when taking volunteer time?
No, staff are not required to participate in University-approved opportunities when taking volunteer time. However, staff that are interested in University-approved volunteer activities can find opportunities on the PittServes website.
I have another question. Who should I contact?
- For general inquiries about volunteerism and public service, contact the Office of Engagement and Community Affairs by emailing communityinfo@pitt.edu.
- For inquiries about specific University-approved volunteer opportunities, contact PittServes by emailing serves@pitt.edu.
- For staff that have inquiries about Volunteer and Professional Development Time, contact the Office of Human Resources by submitting an inquiry online.