Just as Brown students expect to develop and apply their skills and knowledge on issues that matter to them and their communities, Brown alumni continue to seek out the same once they leave College Hill. With the Brown Community-Engaged Alumni Network (BrownCAN), alumni can find rewarding opportunities to give back to their communities.

BrownCAN seeks to maximize the positive impact of Brunonia by connecting alumni with community-based public and social sector organizations. Alumni can search for volunteer opportunities that best leverage their experience, skills, and passions while supporting an organization that aligns with their values.

A new initiative from the Office of Alumni Relations and the Swearer Center, Brown CAN not only helps curate local community service opportunities for alumni but also helps provide resources and guidance to help identify and respond to community needs in their own area.

Initially, BrownCAN will offer opportunities specific to Providence and the surrounding communities as part of Brown’s larger commitment to productive engagement and partnership with the city and state. Eventually, BrownCAN aims to expand nationally and even globally, giving alumni and communities tools and resources to foster collaborations that address pressing community-identified needs and make a positive impact throughout the world. 

Opportunities for engagement will vary on community need, ranging from traditional volunteer roles, such as helping at a school or food pantry to time-constrained consultant roles, such as advising on fundraising plans, marketing campaigns, legal matters or nonprofit management.

Some areas where Brown CAN may host opportunities include: