MetroParks Volunteer Patrols (MVP) - Volunteer Training
Thank you for your interest in supporting the MetroPark Volunteer Patrol (MVP) opportunity. MVP volunteers enhance MetroParks’ ability to foster understanding and enjoyment of the natural and cultural heritage of our area and help ensure visitors have a safe experience on our trails. By maintaining a regular presence on our natural and paved trail systems, MVPs support Five Rivers MetroParks in protecting and stewarding these shared spaces.
MVP volunteers serve as the “eyes and ears” of the trails, offering trail users helpful information, promoting safe and responsible trail use, and sharing updates about trail conditions with MetroParks staff. While MVPs are not law enforcement, their presence helps strengthen trail safety and visitor experience by reporting concerns, assisting with minor issues, and fostering positive interactions with park visitors.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE? This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up, who have completed their volunteer onboarding qualifications (Volunteer Handbook Signature, Completed Volunteer Profile) and an eligible background check. New to MetroParks volunteering? Click here to learn more about how to become a volunteer! This opportunity requires a service commitment of 25 hours per year.
GET STARTED!
Step 1: Review the MVP Training Content:
- Review the MVP Handbook
- Review the training resources specific to the patrol area you wish to support:
- Hike
- Sustainable Trail Building 101
- Leave No Trace Training
- Community Outreach Training
- Pond Patrol: Pond Patrol Protocol
- Conservation Caretakers: Conservation Caretakers Training
- Bike/Mountain Bike
- Hike
- Watch the MVP Training Video below:
Step 2: Submit the MVP Interest Form:
Step 3: Complete the In-Person MVP Training:
Once you have completed the steps above, a Volunteer Coordinator will contact you to share the next steps for completing your in-person training for the MVP Training.
Once you have completed your online training, you will be invited to attend a Shadow Experience. During your in-person shadow experience, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn expectations of the role, practice and demonstrate required tasks, and get comfortable working alongside volunteers and staff.
Once your MVP qualifications are complete, you can begin signing up for opportunities!
Want to Branch Out?
Want to explore other ways to get involved? There are many volunteer opportunities across MetroParks that offer similar experiences, skills, or ways to make an impact.
- Back Country Program Support opportunities
- Bike Program Support opportunities
- Trail Maintenance opportunities
Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks!
Have questions?
Reach out to the Volunteer Services team at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or 937-275-7275 and ask to speak with a Volunteer Coordinator. You can also join us at a Volunteer Open House, an in-person opportunity to learn more about volunteering with Five Rivers MetroParks.
Welcome to the Team!
