NYC Launches Volunteer Corps to Welcome World Cup Visitors

New York City is turning its legendary spirit of helpfulness into an organized force this summer, launching a first-of-its-kind volunteer program to welcome the world.

Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced the NYC Summer Welcome Corps, a partnership that will deploy volunteers across all five boroughs during the FIFA World Cup 2026, America250 celebrations, and Sail4th 250. The program opens the door to anyone 18 or older, requiring no special skills—just a background check and a few hours of time.

Volunteers will be stationed at high-traffic locations to give directions, help visitors navigate the city, point people to shade and water during hot days, assist those with accessibility needs, and watch out for each other's safety. It's the kind of everyday kindness New Yorkers are already famous for, now supercharged into a coordinated citywide effort.

The program brings together NYC Service, New York City Emergency Management, and New York Cares. It builds on the success of Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), volunteers who've trained for years to support their neighbors during emergencies.

"For New Yorkers, this is light work," Mayor Mamdani said. "We're used to pointing visitors to the nearest subway station or answering questions from the millions of people who visit our beautiful city every year."

The Ripple Effect

More than 60,000 New Yorkers already volunteer through New York Cares programs each year, improving education, meeting immediate needs, and revitalizing public spaces across the city. This summer's Welcome Corps takes that energy and channels it toward a specific moment when the eyes of the world will be on New York.

The program creates meaningful connections in both directions. Visitors get a warm welcome from locals who know the city best. Volunteers get to represent their neighborhoods on a global stage, turning ordinary interactions into moments that visitors will remember long after they return home.

New Yorkers interested in joining can sign up at nycservice.org/welcomecorps. When millions arrive this summer, they'll find a city that's not just ready to host them—but genuinely excited to help.