CCS Signature Events

CCS coordinates and assists with a number of initiatives throughout the year that are a great opportunity for faculty and staff to get involved. Fundraising events are held to build awareness and raise money for grants to local not-for-profits. Another way CCS gives back to the community is through a variety of charity drives to support the diverse needs of our neighbors. They are coordinated among CCS staff, ambassadors and employee volunteers from all Columbia University, Barnard College and Teachers College.

Fundraising Events

Cooking With Chef Mike
For the past two years, employees have been invited to watch “Chef Mike” DeMartino of Columbia Dining do various meal demonstrations such as “Marinades and Rubs”, “Super Bowl Chili and Sliders” and “Healthy Grilling”. Employees learn how to prepare these meals and enjoy them afterwards. The event is held in support of CCS. 

Charity Basketball Tournament 
For the past ten years, Columbia employees have participated in the CCS Charity Basketball Tournament that brings employees, family and friends together. The money raised is used for annual grants that are distributed to the CCS organizations. 

The Barnard Annual Bike-A-Thon
The Barnard Annual Bike-A-Thon is a signature event that raises money for grants to local community organizations. The annual event is held in the Oval, Diana Center at Barnard College. It attracts over 100 participants every year and has gained support from many community residents and local businesses.  The Bike-A-Thon is a fun-filled day, featuring t-shirts for all participants, round-the-clock music, exciting prizes for participants and refreshments.

Charity Drives

Back To School Drive
Every summer, the CCS Office works with the Office of Public Safety to collect schools supplies for children, grades 1 to 7. The drive starts with an email to employees at the Morningside, Manhattanville and Studebaker campuses in July. The drive runs through late August. Community Board Nine and the 26th Precinct coordinates distribution to the community residents.

Fall Food Drive 
Every year, CCS works with a select group of departments to host food drives at their respective locations. Donations of unexpired and unopened food are collected for distribution to one of the local food pantries/soup kitchens.  

Holiday Toy Drive
Employees who are invited to the President’s Annual Holiday Party are also encouraged to donate an unwrapped toy for children, ages 12 and younger. CCS staff and employee volunteers sort and prepare toys for distribution to organizations that serve the youth in the surrounding community.

Coat, Clothing & Toiletries Spring Drive 
In response to the continued needs of the communities that we serve, Columbia Community Service collects gently used coats, clothing, shoes, accessories and toiletries to assist families in need. The Drive runs from January to April 30 of every year. Donations benefit the Clothing Closet at Cathedral Community Cares, Broadway Community and New York Common Pantry.