Commission members are diverse and bi-partisan and are appointed by the governor. Commission members each have a strong background in community service and leadership and provide a tremendous resource to the state service and volunteer communities. Commission members also promote volunteering and community service as proven methods to solve local problems.

Commission staff provides administrative support for the Commission. Hosted by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, staff is responsible for organizing and conducting annual grant competitions, making funding recommendations to Commission members, providing fiscal and program monitoring, as well as technical assistance and training, for existing programs, and conducting outreach, among other duties.