The Student Advocate: Crossing I-81 and Getting Involved in the Syracuse Community

Source: Lauren Long, The Post-Standard

How I-81 Has Shaped Syracuse

If you live in Central New York, then you know all about the project to remove the I-81 overpass that cuts through Syracuse, New York. The construction of the I-81 highway has been criticized by many in the Syracuse community for dividing the city of Syracuse in half and allowing traffic to bypass the impoverished city center en route to the wealthier suburbs.

As the Syracuse section of the I-81 highway nears the end of its life, city planners and politicians have been discussing how to implement a “community grid” to bring the neighborhoods of Syracuse together.

Slowing traffic through downtown Syracuse would improve the economy, living standard and mobility in the area. But while this project is underway, the citizens of Syracuse must also do their part in re-integrating Syracuse neighborhoods. This is especially important for members of Syracuse University, which sits directly next to the I-81 highway.

Syracuse University and the Community

Syracuse University, as a private institution, has long struggled with being disconnected from the surrounding city. Although students are always told about all of the fun things to do off-campus, I’ve always been surprised by how many Syracuse students and graduates tell me they never or hardly ever venture off-campus.

I’ll also be the first one to admit that when I do go off campus, it’s to go shopping or try out new restaurants with friends. Supporting local businesses is also very important, but many students don’t venture into downtown Syracuse with the aim of giving back to the community.

Source: Rescue Mission

Advocacy Opportunities

No matter your interest, there are many ways to be an involved citizen and advocate for others in your community. Here is a list I’ve compiled of organizations and nonprofits in Syracuse that are seeking help from students like you:

Looking for volunteers:

• Syracuse Habitat for Humanity

• Vera House

• Food Bank of Central New York

• Planned Parenthood (Syracuse Health Center)

• Public Broadcasting Council of Central New York

• CNY SPCA

• Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central New York

• ProLiteracy

• Rescue Mission

• United Way of Central New York

Looking for interns:

• La Casita Cultural Center

• Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse

Looking for experts:

• PAWS of CNY

• Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse

• WCNY

• Near East Foundation

• Rescue Mission

All of the above organizations also accept some form of donations (money, food, clothing, resources, etc.)

Fulfilling University Requirements

Also, I know many student organizations and university courses require students to volunteer for civic engagement, community service or philanthropy hours. The Renée Crown University Honors Program posts up-to-date listings for civic engagement opportunities on its website. Honors students can receive civic engagement credit for these, but it’s also just a good resource to find community engagement opportunities in Syracuse.

Source: Renée Crown University Honors Program

Everyone should volunteer as often and as much as they can to be an engaged citizen. Whether it's donating time, money, resources or expertise, you can be an advocate for so many great causes in the Syracuse community. Did I miss any organizations doing important work in Central New York? Let me know in the comments!