On-Campus-SUNY Empire State Service Corps-Basic Needs Student Leader

Job Description:

Position Title: SUNY Empire State Service Corps – Basic Needs Student Leader

Department: Student Life

Reports To: Jessica Heideman

Positions Available: 3

Position Overview

The SUNY Empire State Service Corps Basic Needs Student Leader will support SUNY Niagara’s efforts to address food insecurity, clothing insecurity, and other essential student needs. Through this position, student leaders will serve as campus ambassadors for basic needs programs, including the Food Pantry, Annie’s Closet clothing closet, and related initiatives. Participants will gain leadership experience, develop civic engagement skills, and make a direct impact on the well-being of their peers.

This role is part of the SUNY Empire State Service Corps, a systemwide initiative that engages students in service opportunities to strengthen communities and foster student success.

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Key Responsibilities

● Program Support

○ Assist with daily operations of the Campus Food Pantry and Annie’s Closet, including stocking, organization, and distribution.

○ Support promotional campaigns, donation drives, and awareness events focused on basic needs.

● Student Engagement & Outreach

○ Serve as a peer ambassador by educating students on available resources and reducing stigma around seeking support.

○ Staff tables at campus fairs, events, and outreach activities to increase visibility of basic needs services.

○ Connect students with community resources and campus support services.

● Leadership & Service

○ Participate in service-learning opportunities and leadership development workshops as part of the SUNY Empire State Service Corps.

○ Assist in planning and facilitating volunteer opportunities tied to food security, clothing drives, and other basic needs efforts.

○ Model civic responsibility and encourage peers to engage in service.

● Data & Reporting

○ Assist with tracking pantry and closet usage data for reporting and assessment.

○ Provide feedback to improve basic needs programming.

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Qualifications

● Must be a currently enrolled SUNY Niagara student in good academic standing.

● Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to connect with diverse student populations.

● Commitment to serving others and improving student success through meeting basic needs.

● Dependable, organized, and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

● Previous volunteer or leadership experience preferred, but not required.

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Position Details

● Hours: 300 total hours must be completed per SUNY, approximately 10 hours per week (flexible scheduling)

● Compensation: $16.00 per hour

● Term of Service: Academic year (Fall–Spring semesters)

● Location: SUNY Niagara Sanborn Campus

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Learning Outcomes

By the conclusion of the position, students will be able to:

● Demonstrate leadership through service and advocacy for basic needs.

● Apply civic engagement skills in real-world contexts.

● Build professional skills in communication, teamwork, and program management.

● Understand the role of basic needs in student success and equity.