volunteering
Impact is in the DNA of Bruins. We are active, conscious, and engaged citizens who often put community before self. Whether volunteering through one of the programs below, or carving out new opportunities, UCLA Alum are dedicated changemakers.
“We are all trying to do something for the community or society."
Provide mentorship, career advice or connections
Your knowledge can open doors. Help students and alums navigate their career paths by offering real-world insights, professional advice, and encouragement.
Review scholarship applications
Make an impact from anywhere. Volunteer virtually to review applications and help identify the next generation of UCLA Alumni Scholars.
Represent UCLA at college fairs
Connect with other alumni, answer questions and speak with prospective Bruins about why UCLA could be the ideal university for them. Most college fairs are held at high schools on weeknights during the months of August thru November and require a time commitment of 2-3 hours. Training is provided.
The following Alumni programs are volunteer-powered and direct opportunities to support our broader community. Complete the form below to connect with program leaders and get involved today.
annual volunteer opportunities
UCLA Volunteer Day
Each fall, thousands of alumni, students, parents, faculty, and friends take part in hands-on projects that uplift schools, parks, shelters, and community spaces across Los Angeles and around the world. It’s a day to give back, build community, and show what’s possible when Bruins come together.
Be part of the story — help us create change, one project at a time.
Bruin Day & Transfer Bruin Day
Every Bruin journey begins with a moment of possibility. These special events welcome newly admitted students and their families to campus, offering a firsthand look at UCLA’s academic excellence, student life, and vibrant community. Volunteers play a key role in shaping that experience by sharing their stories, answering questions, and helping future Bruins see themselves in Westwood.
Dinners for 12 Strangers
What started in 1968 as a simple idea has become a global UCLA tradition. Dinners for 12 Strangers brings together alumni, students, and faculty to share a meal and meaningful conversation building connections across generations, backgrounds, and borders. Whether you’re hosting or attending, every dinner is a chance to strengthen the Bruin bond and be part of a shared story that spans the globe.
Stories begin where Bruins gather.
Give back on your own time through UCLA ONE
Support fellow Bruins by sharing your time, experience, and insight through UCLA ONE, our online community built for mentoring, networking, and career support. Whether you’re answering questions, reviewing resumes, or offering advice from your own journey, volunteering on UCLA ONE is simple, flexible, and entirely virtual.
Alumni Mentor Program
As an alumni mentor, you will have the opportunity to provide students academic guidance as well as career and personal development advice. Your mentorship can empower students to create a game plan for the year ahead, explore career possibilities and even begin to build their network. We encourage mentors and students to connect on a regular basis (e.g., by phone, video conference or email). However, the frequency and form of communication are things you both can determine.