Volunteer
A proud history of Badgers serving others
The very tenets of the university — the Wisconsin Idea — speak to spreading the good works of the UW far beyond the borders of campus. Badgers are engaged with their home communities and in causes and missions throughout the world. UW alumni have always been on the forefront of public service and volunteerism: UW-Madison ranks #2 for sending volunteers into the Peace Corps. Badger alumni have long been at the forefront of social change, and the university has produced public servants on both sides of the aisle. As Badgers, volunteering to serve others is in our blood.
Here are just a few of the ways you can serve:
- Volunteering with your school, department, or college
- Career mentoring
- Serving on committees, such as Homecoming or GPU
- Class reunions
- Fundraising events, such as Fill the Hill
- WAA Chapter leadership and communications teams
- Raising funds for Matching Dollar Scholarships
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
No events found. See full event calendar.
Volunteer Resources
Tools for success
Get the tools you need to make your alumni volunteer experience a success. You’ll find a wealth of information, including training videos, articles, tips, and an extensive Chapter Leader Handbook.
Volunteer Confidentiality and Conflict of Interest Agreement
The success of the Wisconsin Alumni Association (WAA) depends on a network of volunteers serving in a variety of roles. WAA values its volunteers and works to create programs and services to support and enhance their involvement. This agreement has been established to help WAA fulfill its mission to support the vision and goals of the University of Wisconsin – Madison. This policy applies to members of the national board of directors, alumni volunteers, affiliate leaders and any other volunteer in WAA’s governance structure or chapter leadership.
WAA Chapters Business & Legal Issues
Learn more about typical chapter financial situations, chapter tax situations, steps to consider when applying for 501(c) 3 Status, liability and more.
WAA Alchohol Policy
The Wisconsin Alumni Association and its board of directors support the position the university has taken with respect to creating an environment that reduces or eliminates the adverse consequences of alcohol misuse.
WAA Dispute Resolution Policy
The WAA is committed to an environment where all persons are treated with respect and dignity.
Planning Resources for Chapter Leaders
How to Start a Chapter
Looking to connect with Badgers but there isn’t a chapter in your area? Start one! There are alumni in all corners of the world, and there’s a good chance there are fellow Badgers near you looking for folks that share that UW connection.
Chapter Calendar
Looking to plan ahead but not sure where to start? We’ve created a list of major events and deadlines for you organize your chapter’s schedule.
Chapter Leader Handbook
Looking for tips and resources about how to grow your chapter? Our chapter leader handbook has tips and resources for chapters of all types.
Badgers Leaders at Work
Badger alumni volunteers in action
Learn about work being done by Badgers around the world. See what your fellow alumni are accomplishing in communities all across America and around the world. Find inspiration and ideas you can use in your own endeavors. There are a lot of Badgers out there in the world doing great things — here are just a few of them.
Atlanta Chapter: Matthew Sitkowski PHD’12
Baltimore Chapter: Ayse Gurses PhD’05
Gurses is an associate professor of anesthesiology and critical care medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
Via Baltimore ChapterBaltimore Chapter: Martha James-Hassan ’93
Bay Area Badgers Chapter: Mariah Terhaar ’09
Terhaar, an executive assistant for the Brunswick Group, is a former AmeriCorps/VISTA leader who assisted the city of Fairbanks, Alaska, in its mission to combat poverty in interior Alaska.
Via Bay Area Badgers ChapterBay Area Badgers: George Hamel, Jr. ’80
Big Apple Badgers: Gabe Stulman ’03
Boston Chapter: Mark Samels ’78
Brown County Chapter: John Zakowski ’79, JD’83
Zakowski was appointed to the Brown County Circuit Court in 2011 and was elected to a six-year term in 2012. He was appointed the Brown County district attorney in 1987 at age 30 and spent 24 years in the DA’s office before replacing Judge J. D. McKay.
Via Brown County Chapter
Brown County Chapter: Patrick Warpinski ’85, DVM’91
A veterinarian for 24 years, Warpinski is president of the Bay Area Humane Society and owner of The Animal House.
Via Brown County ChapterChequamegon Bay Chapter: Jerald ’72 and Mary Phillips ’67
The Phillipses have dedicated many years to hospitality in the Chequamegon Bay area, including ownership of a Bayfield bed-and-breakfast, the Old Rittenhouse Inn, and Carriage Antiques in Hayward.
Via Chequamegon Bay ChapterVolunteer Opportunities
Opportunities for your time and talent
No matter your skills, experience, and expertise, there’s a volunteer opportunity for you. Choose events and opportunities that fit your own unique personality and abilities. There’s a job, task, or need waiting just for you! Below you’ll find a list of upcoming events and current volunteer opportunities.
Upcoming Opportunities
No events found. See full event calendar.
Become a Volunteer
Register today to become a Badger alumni volunteer. No matter which volunteer area interests you, this is the place to begin. Fill out the form below to get started.