Five Rivers MetroParks Volunteer Positions & Upcoming Opportunities 

We need YOU and all your friends to volunteer at this year's Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Learn more and sign up below. Plus, our last Service Saturday of the season, Make Difference Day opportunities are now available, and Barn Aide Training is coming up for new Riding Center volunteers. 

Plenty of outdoor opportunities are still available and your support is needed in our gardens and on the trails, as well as at our special events. Cool down from the heat with a frozen fruit popsicle from our Summer Care Campaign. 

These opportunities and more are featured below with even more opportunities available for you on Get Connected. Browse all of our opportunities here.

View our high-need, high-priority opportunities here. 

See something that interests you, but have questions? Contact a Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or call #937-275-7275. Looking for opportunities where we need the most help right now?  

Administration

Administrative volunteers work behind the scenes on a variety of short-term and long-term clerical projects to ensure that our frontline staff and volunteers have all they need to provide high-quality parks, programs, and services.

Historic treasures like this newspaper article help tell our story and preserve our history.

MetroParks Historical Research:
Uncover the history of Five Rivers MetroParks! Help us preserve the stories of Five Rivers MetroParks by becoming a Historical Research volunteer. We're building detailed timelines of each park's past to guide future storytelling and preservation efforts. Volunteers collect and organize historical records, visit archives like Wright State University or local libraries, use research tools to catalog findings, and maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. This flexible role can be done independently, with regular staff check-ins. Your work will bring our parks' history to life for the community and future generations. Sign up today and help ensure these stories are never forgotten.
Learn more and get started by clicking the blue VOLUNTEER button below. 

Animal Care

Animal Care Volunteers support staff in caring for farm animals and wildlife animal ambassadors at a variety of our parks. These animals support MetroParks' mission by connecting the public to nature and education on local history, conservation, and small site sustainability

Staff Lead Megan Multunas and volunteer Paul Bullock work on getting stalls cleaned and ready for the horses to return.

Barn Aide In-Person Training: 

We're looking for dedicated volunteers to step into the role of Barn Aide! If you enjoy working around animals and want to deepen your involvement, this is a great opportunity. Care and maintenance of these majestic animals is a priority, and our volunteers make a true impact each day in the role of Barn Aide. Training is required, and upcoming fall dates are listed on Get Connected - please RSVP by clicking the green RSVP button below if you're interested, after completing the easy online training located here: https://metroparks.galaxydigital.com/training-library/animal-care-training-resources/carriage-hill-riding-center-volunteer-training-/. We'd love to have you on the team!

Gardening

Gardening Volunteers support our horticulture and education staff in caring for a variety of gardens throughout our parks. These gardens not only provide beautiful spaces for Miami Valley residents to get outside, explore and connect to nature, but many also provide fresh local produce to those in need in our community.

Volunteers with DECA lend a hand in the Demonstration Garden at Possum Creek MetroPark.

Herbal Harvest at Possum Creek:

Spend a morning the in the Possum Creek Demonstration Garden helping us bring in the season's herbs. From snipping and drying to storing and labeling, each task plays a role in preparing plants for their next chapter. Whether you're an experienced gardener or just beginning to explore the world of herbs, our team will guide you through the process. The herbs you help gather will be used in upcoming wellness programs and even creative cyanotype (a sun-printing art process) projects, turning your work into something beautiful, useful, and inspiring for the community.
Click the blue VOLUNTEER button below to learn more and sign up to make a difference.




Wegerzyn Gardening Angels volunteers, Mary Dye, Connie Sink, and Patti Erbaugh, help weed in an area by the greenhouse.

Gardening Across our MetroParks:

As the summer days start to mellow and the air gets that perfect hint of crispness, it's the ideal time to give our beloved garden spaces a little extra love. With the temperatures becoming more comfortable, it's easier than ever to get your hands dirty, plant some late bloomers, and tidy up those beds for the season ahead. 

Our gardening projects are in full swing, and we'd love for you to join us in making the most of this beautiful time of year. Whether you're deadheading flowers, pulling weeds, or planting a few new perennials, there's no better way to enjoy the risp, end-of-summers days than by nurturing our green spaces.

Join us for gardening at these MetroParks: 
Aullwood Garden
Carriage Hill
Cox Arboretum
Possum Creek
RiverScape & Urban Parks
Wegerzyn Gardens
Click the blue VOLUNTEER button below to learn more about gardening with us and sign up to make a difference.

Park Maintenance

Five Rivers MetroParks provides clean, safe parks and conservation areas for the public to enjoy year-round. Our Park Maintenance volunteers help to manage and sustain 18 beautiful parks, 11 conservation areas, and 160 miles of hike, bike, mountain bike, and horseback riding trails for park visitors to safely enjoy.

Trail Workdays: Calling all Trail Lovers:

Do you love our trails? Here's your chance to give back to the paths that give us so much. Join our Trailblazers - our hands-on volunteer crew helping care for the trails at Twin Valley and Englewood MetroParks. 

These weekday opportunities are perfect for anyone with a flexible schedule who enjoys fresh air, getting their hands dirty, and making a visible impact. Whether you're new to trail work or a seasoned volunteer, your time and energy help keep these scenic spaces safe, beautiful, and ready for adventure.
So, lace up your boots, grab a tool, and help us blaze the way! Click the blue VOLUNTEER button below to learn more and sign up to make a difference on our trails. 



Volunteer Matt McCurry helps to clean the 2nd Street Market during his Market Custodial Support shift.

Market Custodial Support:

Love spending time at the 2nd Street Market? Want to give back to this awesome community hub? Well, do we have the perfect opportunity for you! We're on the lookout for some extra helping hands to tackle custodial tasks on weekend afternoons. Picture this: you'll be the superhero of cleanliness, keeping the market clean and tidy during operating hours, with some light sweeping, table tidying, and trash removal after closing. And the best part? You'll be doing it all indoors, so you can stay cool and comfortable while contributing to the community, making it a great option for those who want to give back but prefer to avoid the unpredictable late summer weather! 
Click the blue VOLUNTEER button below to learn more and sign up to make a difference.




Hills and Dales Workday are located at various starting points, and volunteer help us keep this community park looking it's best. 

Hills & Dales Workdays:

Are you a nature lover with a passion for making a difference? If so, we've got the perfect opportunity for you! It's time to roll up your sleeves and dive into the beauty of Hills & Dales with our upcoming volunteer workdays. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or just curious to learn something new, this is your chance to dig in - literally! From gardening and tree planting to tackling invasive species and spreading mulch, there's a task for every skill level. And the best part? You'll be playing a vital role in preserving the natural beauty of this beloved community park for generations to come. 
View the opportunities available and sign up to support by clicking the blue VOLUNTEER button below.

Programming

Five Rivers MetroParks provides a wide variety of high-quality programs to help the public get outside and get connected to nature. Programming volunteers work alongside staff to provide support at programs year-round that help participants master new skills, learn about the natural world, and appreciate the value of open spaces.

The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience: Try It Support

Fishing Village - We are in need of 12 volunteers to help us introduce and engage visitors at the event in fishing.  Help visitors learn and practice basic casting skills. Volunteers in this area need to have basic casting skills.

All volunteers serving at 2 or more shifts at the event will receive a free Get Out & Bike water bottle as a thank you!

View all the available programming opportunities for this event, learn more and sign up to lend a hand by clicking the blue VOLUNTEER button. 

Volunteer Chanie Corbitt gets the tea area ready for participants in the herbal program at Possum Creek.

Garden Program Support: 

Possum Creek MetroPark is excited to introduce engaging programs designed to inspire individuals to grow their own produce, deepen their understanding of plants, and find ways to contribute to the community. We are seeking passionate volunteers who enjoy demonstration gardens, gardening, and are eager to help others explore the incredible world of plants. While you don't need to be an expert to join us, any gardening experience or plant knowledge will certainly be beneficial!

As a volunteer, you will the rewarding opportunity of making our programs more accessible and welcoming to everyone. Your support will create a warm and safe environment where first-time learners can flourish and develop new skills. Connect to your community through plants in the garden!

Click the blue VOLUNTEER button below to learn more and sign up to make a difference.

Do you enjoy arts and crafts? Do you want to make a positive impact in your community while having a blast? If you've ever been curious about origami, or if you're an origami pro, we've got a fantastic opportunity for you! Join our origami owl prep sessions and help us prepare a number of these charming little owls as a giveaway at our upcoming Fall Family Adventure. Let's make this event memorable together!

Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to lend a hand.

Volunteer Kathleen Lange creates one of the cute Halloween caricatures chosen by the guest at the Fall Family Adventure.

Fall Family Adventure: Face Painting

Do artistic, creative, and cheerful describe you? Join us in creating some Fall magic at this year's Fall Family Adventure by volunteering to support face painting!

Face painting 

Click the blue VOLUNTEER button to learn more and sign up to make a difference. 

Special Events

Five Rivers MetroParks provides an array of outdoor events and large programs throughout the year for residents of the Miami Valley to get connected to recreation, music, history, family, and most of all nature. Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear down.

Kettering College volunteers lend a hand in the Demonstration Garden at Possum Creek MetroPark!

Service Saturdays: Don't Miss the Final Service Saturday of the Season!

All summer long, volunteers have been rolling up their sleeves to restore habitats, beautify parks, and make a real difference for our community. Now, September brings your final chance to jump in.

Service Saturdays wrap up this month, so if you've been waiting to give it a try, now's the perfect time. No experience, orientation, or ongoing commitment needed. Just sign up, show up, and enjoy a morning outdoors making a positive impact.

Perfect for individuals, friend groups, or team outings

Led by MetroParks staff with tools and guidance provided

Support high priority conservation and park beautification projects

A great way to explore a park, learn something new and meet others who care

This is your last opportunity to be a part of Service Saturdays this year. Spots can go quickly, especially for groups, so be sure to grab yours by clicking the blue VOLUNTEER button below. 

Let's finish the season strong! See you out there!

Make A Difference Day:

Join us Saturday, October 26th from 9am-Noon for Make A Difference Day at Five Rivers MetroParks! Community members of all ages are invited to work at various sites through Five Rivers MetroParks to help us clean up our parks and prepare for the winter season.  Make A Difference Day is a great way to get outside and give back this October. Register your family, friends, or your work group and get everyone outside to make a difference!

View available opportunities, learn more, and sign up by clicking the blue VOLUNTEER button below.

The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience:

Be part of the Adventure - Volunteer at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience returns to Eastwood MetroPark on October 4 & 5, and we need enthusiastic volunteers to help make this free, family-friendly, outdoor festival a success!

This popular event draws thousands of visitors eager to try paddling, climbing, cycling, and more. Volunteer keep the fun flowing - whether helping at activity areas, greeting guests, or supporting fellow volunteers. 

Opportunities are available for Event Set Up, Exhibitor Support, Hospitality, Info Central and Waivers, Action Sports, Try Paddlesports, and more! Plus, volunteers serving at 2 or more shifts will receive a free Get Out & Bike water bottle as a thank you!

View all the available event volunteer opportunities and sign up to have some fun while making a difference with your MetroParks this Fall by clicking the blue VOLUNTEER button below. And be sure to share with everyone you know!

Volunteer Services

Volunteer Services is available if you have questions or need assistance in signing up.

Contact us at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275.

Your Volunteer Services Team

Allie 

Parks & Conservation # (937) 274 - 3176

Amanda

Ambassador & Special Events, Interim Administration # (937) 277- 4109

Yvonne

Outdoor Connections Programming # (937) 277- 4147

Sam

Animal Care and animal Programming # (937) 274 - 4502

Jenny

Human Resources Manager of Volunteer Services

# (937) 567-1413

Return to the Volunteer Blog here.