Volunteer for State of Maryland “Day to Serve”

As an expression of the university’s service mission, President Pines encourages us all to help our communities by participating in the Day to Serve initiative declared by Maryland Governor Larry Hogan. The Day to Serve Program encourages all Marylander’s to choose at least one day between September 11 and October 31 to participate in or host a volunteer activity. This initiative unites citizens in volunteer efforts and recognizes the exceptional community service that occurs year-round in the State of Maryland. In response to this year’s public health challenges, for the first time, opportunities to volunteer will be available both in person and remotely.

Service Leave/Eligibility

  • All regular and CII faculty, exempt and non-exempt staff are eligible to participate upon supervisor approval.
  • You may receive up to four hours of paid administrative leave to perform qualifying volunteer service during normal working hours. The leave must be pre-approved by your supervisor and scheduled at a time when it will not interfere with essential functions of your unit or department.
  • The volunteer service must be performed in conjunction with an organization that has a valid 501 (c)(3) designation from the Internal Revenue Service
  • Under state law, the volunteer service must not attempt to promote religious beliefs nor influence legislation, governmental policy, or elections to public office.
  • A participating employee may not receive any direct benefits or compensation for their service.
  • Time spent commuting to and from the volunteer service site and time the employee volunteers after regularly scheduled work hours do not qualify for this program.

Instructions for Participating in Day to Serve

  • Get approval from your supervisor for the day and time you would like to serve.
  • Your supervisor will record the leave on your timesheet as “Admin Lv –Serve Day” from the drop down menu of additional leave codes.
  • Submit a brief summary of your service opportunity that includes the number of volunteers, hours of work, and description to the Office of Community Engagement at oce@umd.edu.

All faculty and staff members are encouraged to give back to the community through volunteer service as part of this program. You can make a genuine difference in the life of a neighbor!

Visit the UMD Community Engagement website or the Governor’s Day of Service website for more information on programs you can join or host.