• What is CSSF?
• How can alumni become involved?
• Who chooses the location and the work site?
• Will the student receive a stipend?
• Who provides the housing?
• Does host family have to provide meals?
• What responsibilities does the coordinator have?

What is CSSF?

The Association of Yale Alumni Community Service Summer Fellowship program was initiated in the fall of 1989 to provide students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in full time, community service work during the summer months.

The Fellowship places undergraduate and graduate/professional students in paid eight-week, community service positions in cities across the country and abroad. Since its inception, over three hundred students have taken part in the program.

How can alumni become involved?

The AYA works in partnership with a Yale Club/Association to coordinate the Fellowship. The Club/Association is responsible for selecting a non-profit, direct service work organization, provide housing and raise funds to provide for the Fellow's stipend. In order to make the program available to all students, the amount of the stipend is set based on the required summer earnings for students with financial aid obligations for the university, plus a small expense allowance.

The housing provision enables a student the freedom to choose a work site based on interest, and experience without regard to any restrictions thereby allowing him/her to focus primarily on the community service position. The student is also provided with the valuable opportunity to learn about a new environment and to connect with alumni and the local community.

Who chooses the location and the work site?

The program is coordinated in partnership with Yale Club/Associations, which are responsible for selecting a non-profit, direct service work agency, raising funds for the the stipend, and providing housing.

Will the student receive a stipend?

Yes, each Fellow will receive a $2800 stipend contributed by the Yale Club/Association or by Yale College Classes or other individuals.

Who provides the housing?

The Yale Club/Associations provide housing for the Fellow. Housing provisions may be made in a variety of ways: by placing a Fellow with a Yale affiliated family, housing the Fellow at the work site, or in some cases-with other interns off site. As representatives of the program and the University, Fellows are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner, to be considerate and respectful of their hosts.

Does host family have to provide meals?

While Fellows living with families or on-site may be included in meals, but the host family or work site is not expected to provide meals. The Fellow is responsible for all personal expenses incurred.

What other responsibilities does the Club/Association coordinator have?

Yes, click here for a full listing of program requirements.