BKares

BKares is Berkeley College’s community service initiative, dedicated to bringing students together through meaningful volunteer opportunities that make a positive impact both on campus and throughout New Haven. Whether you’re volunteering for the first time or are passionate about service, BKares offers a welcoming way to connect with fellow Berkeleyites while giving back to our community.

Throughout the academic year, BKares organizes volunteer events with local nonprofit organizations, schools, community centers, food programs, and other service partners. Every event is an opportunity to build friendships, strengthen our community, and embody Yale’s commitment to service. Community service is widely recognized as an important way for students to develop leadership, civic engagement, and stronger connections with their communities.

Our Mission

BKares strives to foster the BK culture of kindness, compassion, and civic responsibility further into the community by connecting Berkeley students with opportunities to serve in greater New Haven.

We believe that service:

Strengthens our Berkeley community
Supports our New Haven neighbors
Develops leadership and teamwork
Creates meaningful, lasting impact

What We Do

Throughout the year, BKares participates in a variety of volunteer opportunities, including:

Food pantry and soup kitchen volunteering
Letter-writing for senior citizens
School and literacy initiatives
Seasonal food drives

Past BKares volunteers have:

Written over 100 letters to local senior citizens
Volunteered at community soup kitchens
Participated in Read Across America events
Volunteered at West Haven Animal Shelter
Supported organizations throughout Greater New Haven

Why Get Involved?

Volunteering with BKares is a great way to:

Meet fellow Berkeley students
Give back to the New Haven community
Gain volunteer and leadership experience
Learn about local organizations
Make a tangible difference

Whether you can volunteer once a semester or every month, there’s a place for everyone in BKares.

Upcoming Events

Volunteer opportunities are announced throughout the semester through:

Berkeley College newsletters
Email announcements
GroupMe
Yale Connect
Berkeley social media

No previous volunteer experience is necessary, just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to help!

Join BKares

Ready to make a difference?

We welcome all Berkeley College students and their friends from throughout the university to participate in our service initiatives throughout the year. Together, we can strengthen our community, one act of kindness at a time.