Opportunities From: Five Rivers MetroParks

Come join us at Small Farm & Food Fest, a free, annual event for all-ages, that promotes healthy eating and sustainable living! With dozens of fun, hands-on activities, demonstrations, speakers, and a pop up farmer's market, there's something for everyone on the farm! Exhibitor Support volunteers welcome exhibitors and help them get prepared for the event. 

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from setup to teardown. Exhibitor Support Volunteers help create a welcoming environment for exhibitors and lend a helping hand with their set up tasks.

Tasks Greet exhibitors and vendors as they arrive. Help exhibitors and vendors unload and direct them to the proper parking location. Guide exhibitor and vendors to registration and to their designated booth space after they have registered. Help exhibitors bring their gear to their booth space. Relay any special needs or questions to the staff lead. Assist with general event setup as needed as time permits.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual, public, long-term, or short term volunteers, ages 16 and up. Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.

Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.

Additional Notes

Parking and Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park in the Visitor Center lot located at 7800 E. Shull Rd. Meet with the staff lead at the Visitor Center. View the event map here. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead. Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Rick Musselman, at 937-277-4834.Environment & Physical Demands: Physical duties include standing, walking, lifting, bending, and stretching, carrying and wayfinding. Walking will include traversing paved, unpaved, and natural surfaces.Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if you have them. Otherwise, wear comfortable attire suitable for the weather. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you at volunteer check in onsite. 

Learn more about Special Events opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House. 

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved,

build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider these opportunities:

Heirloom Gardening

Barn Aide 

Do you love spending your weekend in the vibrant, bubbling atmosphere of 2nd Street Market, where you always end up running into a familiar face? Volunteers will be stationed near the entrance and will enhance the visitor experience by greeting and welcoming visitors. Volunteers will also conduct sales of MetroParks merchandise, process EBT sales, provide wayfinding assistance, and promote the MetroParks by passing out literature.

Impact

Volunteers enhance the visitor experience and help curate the Market’s unique, vibrant culture for our customers who then support our vendors in providing sustainable local food to the community.

Tasks Welcome customers as they arrive and thank them as they leave Assist with wayfinding and answer basic questions about the parks Distribute brochures or other literature appropriate to the conversation Conduct credit card sales of MetroParks merchandise Process SNAP/EBT sales through a token exchange program.Process Market merchandise sales, on occasion, through a Point of Sale program.Assist with facilitating the Senior Nutrition Program.Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term and Short-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.

Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park in the visitor parking lots surrounding the Market. Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the 2nd Street Market manager, Lynda Suda, at 937-228-2088Environment & Physical Demands: Light physical duties include standing, sitting, and possibly light lifting to refill marketing materialDress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and, if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Reusable volunteer vests will be provided for volunteers onsite. The spot by the door may be cool in the winter and warm in the summer. Please dress accordingly. Other New Volunteers will be given an on-site orientation and shadow staff at the beginning of their first shift. This orientation will include training on Market merchandise sales as well as SNAP/EBT sales. Volunteers may have downtime, so feel free to bring a book, knitting, crossword, sudoku, etc. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Ambassador Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Help create a memorable journey through history! As a Wagon Ride Host during Small Farm & Food Fest, you'll welcome guests aboard one of the festival's most popular experiences while helping them safely enjoy a relaxing ride around the historic Daniel Arnold Farm.
This role is perfect for volunteers who enjoy meeting new people, sharing information, and creating positive visitor experiences. You'll partner with MetroParks staff and Historic Interpreter volunteers to ensure each wagon ride is safe, welcoming, and engaging.

Impact

Program Support volunteers serve a critical role at special events or large-scale programs by creating a more personalized experience in the various activities.  Volunteers enhance the visitor experience by adding depth and engagement, connecting each visitor to MetroParks for lasting memories of the park and the event!

Tasks

Greet and welcome participants. Assist guests into the wagon, and make sure they move safely to their seats. Review safety on the wagon, and remind them they must stay seated while the vehicle is moving. Engage participants with information regarding Carriage Hill and the activities happening on the farm during this day-long program.Review the Historic Farm Wagon Ride Information before arriving for your shift.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, and short-term volunteers, ages 16 and up.  

GET STARTED: This opportunity requires Volunteer Onboarding (Profile, Volunteer Handbook Signature), and for those 18 and up, an eligible background check.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to begin completing the required qualifications, or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 

Visit the Historic Interpreter page in our Training Library to see what training is required to become part of the Historic Interpreter volunteers. 

Additional Notes

Parking and Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park in the Visitor Center Parking lot located at 7800 E. Shull Rd. Meet with the staff lead at the Historic Farm. View the event map here.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Nick Wheeler, at (937) 508- 9833.Environment & Physical Demands: This opportunity is outside, and volunteers will be traveling in the wagon engaging the visitors. Physical duties include standing, walking, lifting, bending, and stretching.Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.  A reusable volunteer vests and nametags will be available at volunteer check-in onsite.

Learn more about Programming opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider this opportunity:

Shadow Experience: Historic Interpreter

All Program Support

Small Farm & Food Fest is a free, all-ages event that promotes healthy eating and sustainable living with dozens of hands-on activities, a pop-up farmers market, demonstrations, speakers, and more. Sustainability volunteers help to educate the public on sustainability practices and assist with proper waste disposal. Come help event participants learn their impact on the future by combining historic composting and modern day recycling methods!

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring events and large-scale programs run smoothly. Sustainability volunteers help educate participants about what a low-waste event program is, how to distinguish between various recycling and compostable items and encourage ongoing sustainable practices

Tasks

Assist guests in the proper event disposal of recyclables, compostables and trashAnswer participant's questions to the best of your ability and direct questions to staff when neededShare MetroParks' mission of working toward a waste-free eventEncourage and inspire visitors to continue sustainable practices at homeAssist with any set up or take down activities associated with relevant shifts

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual, public, long-term, and short term, volunteers, ages 18 and up. Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.

Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.

Additional Notes

Parking and Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park in the Visitor Center Parking lot located at 7800 E. Shull Rd. Meet with the staff lead at the Visitors Center.  View the event map here. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Grace Dietsch, (937) 528-7188.Environment & Physical Demands: Physical duties include standing, walking, lifting, bending, and stretching, and carrying items outside. Walking will include traversing paved, unpaved and natural surfaces. This station will be covered by a tent.If you would like to request a service accommodation in order to volunteer at this opportunity, please contact Volunteer Services at least 1 week before the scheduled opportunity.Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if you have them. Otherwise, wear comfortable attire suitable for the weather. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you at volunteer check in onsite.

Click here to view a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark

Learn more about Special Events opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House. 

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved,

build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider these opportunities:

Heirloom Gardening

Barn Aide 

Share your love and enthusiasm for Carriage Hill with park patrons! Help enhance the visitor experience by greeting, welcoming, and interacting with a variety of diverse audiences and recommending all the best things to see and do while visiting the farm.

Impact

Visitor Center Ambassadors share their enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks with diverse audiences at the Visitor Centers at Carriage Hill and Cox Arboretum MetroParks. Ambassadors are often the first friendly faces a visitor sees welcoming them to the park and can be counted on to share helpful information and answer a variety of questions.

Tasks Provide excellent customer service by welcoming and directing visitors throughout the park and visitor center. Answer questions about MetroParks. Distribute brochures or other literature appropriate to the conversation.Provide guest assistance while Visitor Services staff is on break. (You will not be asked to answer phones.) Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth ages 16 and up. Learn more about our types of service here. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking can be found in the visitor parking lots in front of the visitor center located at 7800 E. Shull Rd.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Visitor Services Manager Jonathan Gray at 937-499-4270 or 937-275-7275 Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This opportunity involves sitting at the volunteer desk for periods of time. Volunteers may want to stand for periods to speak with guests or show them to specific areas or give directions. Volunteers may choose to station themselves outside the visitor center for some or all of their shift. Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and, if you have one, your green or blue volunteer shirt. The temperature in the visitor center can vary in alignment with the weather, so please dress accordingly. If choosing to station outside of the visitor center, a volunteer safety vest must be worn.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Ambassador Volunteer Position for more information on Ambassador volunteer opportunities with us.

Share your love and enthusiasm for the Arboretum with park patrons! Help enhance the visitor experience by greeting, welcoming, and interacting with a variety of diverse audiences and recommending all the best things to see and do while visiting the park.

Impact

Visitor Center Ambassadors share their enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks with diverse audiences at the Visitor Centers at Carriage Hill and Cox Arboretum MetroParks. Ambassadors are often the first friendly faces a visitor sees welcoming them to the park and can be counted on to share helpful information and answer a variety of questions.

TasksProvide excellent customer service by welcoming and directing visitors throughout the park and visitor center.Answer questions about MetroParks. Distribute brochures or other literature appropriate to the conversation.Provide guest assistance while Visitor Services staff is on break. (You will not be asked to answer phones.)Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth ages 16 and up. Learn more about our types of service here. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking can be found in the visitor parking lots in front of the visitor center located at 6733 N. Springboro Pike. Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Visitor Services Manager Jonathan Gray at 937-499-4270 or 937-275-7275 Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This opportunity involves sitting at the volunteer desk for periods for periods of time. Volunteers may want to stand for periods to speak with guests or show them to specific areas or give directions. Volunteers may choose to station themselves outside the visitor center for some or all of their shifts. Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and, if you have one, your green or blue volunteer shirt. The temperature in the atrium stays cool or warm in alignment with the weather, so please dress accordingly. If choosing to station outside of the visitor center, a volunteer safety vest must be worn.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Ambassador Volunteer Position for more information on Ambassador volunteer opportunities with us.

Come join us at Small Farm & Food Fest, a free, annual event for all-ages, that promotes healthy eating and sustainable living! With dozens of fun, hands-on activities, demonstrations, speakers, and a pop up farmer's market, there's something for everyone on the farm! Help us wrap up the day's fun by taking down this event and restoring the park to it's usual look.

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down. Your efforts to help staff dismantle and put away the event structures and equipment keep the work load lighter for everyone!

Tasks

Help staff collect, load and organize equipment and gear that was used throughout the event site. Help with tasks such as removing signage, collapsing pop-up tents or disassembly of historic tents, taking down tables and chairs, and returning items to storage. Use safe lifting techniques, proper hand tools for the task, and safety gear as appropriate and necessary. You may be asked to lift and/or carry 25lbs or more.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual, public, youth, long-term, or short term volunteers, ages 14 and up. Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.

Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.

Additional Notes

Parking and Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park in the Visitor Center lot located at 7800 E. Shull Rd. Meet with the staff lead at the Visitor Center. View the event map here. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead. Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Rick Musselman, at 937-277-4834.Environment & Physical Demands: Physical duties include standing, walking, lifting, bending, and stretching, carrying and wayfinding. Walking will include traversing paved, unpaved, and natural surfaces. Volunteers may be asked to carry 25lbs or more.Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if you have them. Otherwise, wear comfortable attire suitable for the weather. Closed toe shoes are required. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you at volunteer check in onsite.

Learn more about Special Events opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House. 

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider these opportunities:  

Beer and Wine Sales 

The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience

Love gardening and the beauty of ever-changing landscapes? Come be part of a dedicated team of volunteers who cultivate and care for the stunning gardens at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark! Each week brings something new—whether it’s planting vibrant annuals and perennials, weeding, edging, mulching, pruning, or simply enjoying the seasonal transformations.
You'll have the opportunity to explore and support a variety of unique garden spaces, including the Federal, English, Victorian, and Woodland Gardens. Whether you volunteer regularly or drop in when you can, your efforts help make Wegerzyn a breathtaking place for all to enjoy.
Come dig in, get inspired, and make an impact—our gardens wouldn’t be the same without you!

Impact

Horticulture at Five Rivers MetroParks creates, maintains, and preserves green space and habitats for pollinators and native plants, as well as educates visitors on sustainable gardening practices and local food production.  Gardening volunteers support the Horticulture and Outdoor Connections staff in a variety of gardening tasks. 

Tasks

Under the supervision of the Staff Lead, support and assist with the following tasks:

General garden maintenance such as weeding, edging, mulching, and keeping the gardens tidy; planting bulbs, annuals, perennials, and cannas; moving tropical plants in and out of the greenhouse; and providing excellent customer service by assisting park visitors with questions and wayfinding.Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth. Learn more about our types of service here. Youth Volunteers: Youth volunteers ages 14-17 are not required to complete a background check. If you are a new youth volunteer, contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to have your background check waived.  This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours. Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. Volunteers should park in the Wegerzyn Gardens parking lot (1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414) and meet staff at the front entrance of the building, near the Kiosk. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Payton Johnson, at (513) 292- 8303. Environment & Physical Demands: This project takes place outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, insects, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to participate in routinely bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more etc. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. ​ Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Be part of the change and help promote access to healthy foods in our community! Nourishing Montgomery County is a community initiative aimed at promoting food equity and access to health foods for all residents. This event offers a variety of resources and classes to help spread aid and nutrition awareness for all Montgomery County residents.

Montgomery County organizations along with MetroParks staff will host booths in front of the Market to engage community members in activities that spread awareness and help educate while having some fun. Volunteers are needed to assist with simple crafts and games alongside our MetroParks staff. 

Impact

Program Support volunteers make programs like this one celebrating our community and spreading awareness possible!

Tasks

Welcome and interact with Market visitors and program participants.Assist staff in the set-up and clean-up of the program, including the craft making and/or game supplies.Assist participants with making a simple craft and/or playing games.Help answer questions and provide good customer service to visitors and participants.

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers ages 16 and up.

GET STARTED: This opportunity requires Volunteer Onboarding (Profile, Volunteer Handbook Signature, and for those 18 and up an eligible background check). Simply click the blue RESPOND button to begin completing your qualifications or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.

Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park on the side street. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead at the Market Office near the Welcome Wagon.  Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Lynda or Sally at #937-228-2088. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Physical duties will include some light lifting and a lot of standing on concrete.If you would like to request a service accommodation in order to volunteer at this opportunity, please contact Volunteer Services at least 1 week before the scheduled opportunity. Dress:  Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel. Dress for the weather - it will likely be hot and you will be outdoors.

Learn more about Programming with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Join us indoors at the 2nd Street Market supporting an evening of delicious food and quality entertainment during this year's Culture Kitchen, themed dinners. Dinners will take place each month from April -October. View the schedule here.

Impact

Program Support volunteers make programs like Culture Kitchen possible!

Tasks

Welcome and assist participants with program check-in. Assist staff in set-up, serving, and clean-up of dinner. Provide excellent customer service to the participants when approached with questions.

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, or short-term volunteers ages 16 and up.

GET STARTED: This opportunity requires Volunteer Onboarding (Profile, Volunteer Handbook Signature, and for those 18 and up an eligible background check). Simply click the blue RESPOND button to begin completing your qualifications or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.

Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available at the 2nd Street Market Parking lots. Please arrive 15 minutes early to check in with your staff lead in the Pavillion and receive instructions.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Lynda or Sally at #937-228-2088. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up, serve, and tear clean up the event space. Volunteers should expect to be on their feet for most of the shift.  If you would like to request a service accommodation in order to volunteer at this opportunity, please contact Volunteer Services at least 1 week before the scheduled opportunity. Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel. The market may be cool in the winter and warm in the summer. Please dress accordingly.

Learn more about Programming with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Want to Branch Out? Consider this opportunity: 

Market Custodial Support

Looking to spend a Saturday morning doing something hands-on and meaningful? Join the team of knowledgeable staff and passionate volunteers at Cox Arboretum MetroPark. You’ll work alongside MetroParks staff and fellow volunteers on real, seasonal projects that help keep the gardens looking their best. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just curious to try something new, Service Saturdays are a fun, flexible way to give back, learn as you go, and be part of the work happening at Cox Arboretum.

Impact

Horticulture at Five Rivers MetroParks creates, maintains, and preserves green space and habitats for pollinators and native plants, as well as educates visitors on sustainable gardening practices and local food production.  Gardening volunteers support the Horticulture and Outdoor Connections staff in a variety of gardening tasks. 

Tasks  

Volunteer will assist with a variety of seasonal garden maintenance projects, which might include weeding, planting, or mulching, depending on the weather and the conditions.

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individuals, groups, public, long-term, and short-term volunteers, ages 14 and up.

Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.

Additional Notes:

Parking & Meeting Instructions: click here for a map of Cox Arboretum MetroPark. Volunteers should park at Cox Arboretum, located at 6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton, OH 45449, and meet staff in the plaza, between the Barbara Cox Center for Sustainable Horticulture and the Kettering Learning Lab.  Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact Staff Lead Todd Strong at 937-279-6978. Environmental & Physical Demands: This project takes place outdoors. Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, ticks, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, reaching, walking, and lifting objects of 15 lbs or more, etc. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. ​

Learn more about Gardening opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House. 

Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty? Join us at Possum Creek MetroPark for a fun-filled volunteer opportunity in the Demonstration Garden! The Demonstration Gardens provide produce to those in need throughout Dayton and the Miami Valley. Our education staff needs your help in maintaining the gardens and flower beds at the farm. Together, we'll make the Possum Creek Demonstration Garden a beautiful and inspiring place for programming, school tours, and park patrons of all ages!

Impact

Horticulture at Five Rivers MetroParks creates, maintains, and preserves green space and habitats for pollinators and native plants, as well as educates visitors on sustainable gardening practices and local food production.  Gardening volunteers support the Horticulture and Outdoor Connections staff in a variety of gardening tasks. 

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the Staff Lead, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Garden bed prep, weeding, compost maintenance (turning, sifting, and application), garden path maintenance (cardboard and woodchip application), garden bed construction, transplanting, planting, and more.

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individuals, groups, public, long-term, and short-term volunteers, ages 14 and up.

Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.

Additional Notes:

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Arrive 5- 10 minutes before your shift start time for a brief introduction and orientation to the site and the volunteer project. Click here for a map of Possum Creek MetroPark. Volunteers should park in the parking lot near the Farm Shelter. Enter the park at 4790 Frytown Rd., Dayton, OH 45417, and follow the main park drive until it dead-ends into the farm parking lot. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact Kaitlyn Lowry, Education Coordinator, at 937-276-7053. Environmental & Physical Demands: This project takes place outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, ticks, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, reaching, walking, and lifting objects of 10lbs or more in possibly direct sunlight.Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottles, sunscreen, and bug spray. 

​ Learn more about Garden opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House. 

Do you enjoy gardening in a variety of settings? Would you like to discover gardening design ideas and unique plants for the home landscape? Make an impact by helping staff in the Federal, English, Victorian, and Woodland Gardens, among other great horticulture features at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.

Impact

Horticulture at Five Rivers MetroParks creates, maintains, and preserves green space and habitats for pollinators and native plants, as well as educates visitors on sustainable gardening practices and local food production.  Gardening volunteers support the Horticulture and Outdoor Connections staff in a variety of gardening tasks. 

Tasks

Under the supervision of the Staff Lead, support and assist with the following tasks:

general garden maintenance, including weeding, mulching, invasive species removal, or other small projects identified by the Wegerzyn Gardens team.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Public Service, Long-Term, Short-Term, Youth and Families. Learn more about our types of service here. Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here.Family Volunteers: This opportunity is family-friendly. Families with youth volunteers under the age of 14 are welcome to volunteer. The family must include one parent or guardian per 3 children who engage in service and assume supervisory responsibility for the children during volunteer service.

Additional Notes:

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. Volunteers should park in the Wegerzyn Gardens parking lot (1301 E. Siebenthaler Ave., Dayton, OH 45414) and meet staff at the front entrance of the building.  Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Payton Johnson, at (513) 292- 8303. Environment & Physical Demands: This project takes place outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, insects, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to participate in routinely bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15 lbs or more, etc. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. ​

​ Learn more about Garden opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House. 

Join Five Rivers MetroParks horticulture education team and support family programming throughout the year that connects visitors of all ages to the natural world through gardening and meaningful exploration of the outdoors! This program invites kids ages 2-6 to join us for wonder and fun as we explore different areas of the Children's Discovery Garden and how it helps us learn about the world around us. Each month, we focus on a different topic themed around the variety of habitats you can find in the Children's Garden.  Volunteers will help with activities such as exploring different habitats, searching for bugs, taking brief hikes, creating art using natural materials, and encouraging sensory exploration of different garden spaces. Program Support volunteers do not need to be experts in the activities, but for this opportunity, should have some gardening knowledge, be enthusiastic about finding discoveries in the garden, and enjoy working with children and families. 

Impact

Program support volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, and safety into our programs. Volunteers enable more individualized support for first-time learners and create an inclusive skill-building environment. Volunteers help people create a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities.

Tasks 

Welcome participants and assist with check-in.  Help staff with program set-up & tear-down including distributing program supplies.   Assist staff lead with activity, the hike, and exploring the garden. Assist with and participate with families in program activities. Provide excellent customer service to participants and visitors.  Visit MetroParks Programs and Events page* to learn more about the corresponding program date you'll be volunteering.  4/23 - Theme: Signs of Spring 5/20 - Theme: Wetland Creatures 6/24 - Theme: Daytime and Nighttime Life7/22 - Theme: Ancient Plants and Animals8/19 - Theme: Butterflies and Bugs

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual Short-term and Long-Term volunteers, ages 18 and up. 

GET STARTED: This opportunity requires Volunteer Onboarding (Profile, Volunteer Handbook Signature, and for those 18 and up, an eligible background check).  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to begin completing the required qualifications, or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours.

 Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. Volunteers are scheduled to arrive an hour before the start of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information.Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. Volunteers may be standing or walking for the majority of their shift. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, and wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Learn more about the Programming opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page!   Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider this opportunity:

Adventure Central Program Assistant 2026

Do you enjoy creating things from garden harvested items?  Interested in herbal wellness?  Volunteers will help participants discover the healing power of plants while supporting a hands-on herbal wellness class at Possum Creek MetroPark! In this engaging program, participants will explore the traditional uses, history, and folklore of medicinal herbs that promote healthy skin. Program Support Volunteer help create a welcoming, interactive learning environment by assisting with program setup, preparing materials, supporting hands-on activities, and encouraging participants throughout the class. Whether you have experience with gardening, herbs, or simply enjoy helping others learn, your enthusiasm and friendly presence will make a meaningful difference.  You do not need to be an expert to be a program support for this opportunity, but gardening and plant knowledge are always a plus.

Impact

Program support volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, and safety into our programs for all interested in learning. They enable more individualized support for first-time learners in this valuable skill-building program. They help people make a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities. 

Tasks

Under the supervision of the Staff Lead, volunteers will assist with the following: 

Assist staff with room setup and gathering supplies needed for participants Welcome and greet participants, and help them get checked in and find their place.Volunteers will assist with simple tasks, including: boiling water, preparing herbs for use, assisting participants with their blends, and doing dishesAssist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment, and help ensure the instructor gets to each participant's questions.Hand out program materials as needed.Assist participants in following the instructor's direction and getting more supplies as needed.Assist with teardown and putting supplies back in place.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, and short-term volunteers, ages 18 and up.  

GET STARTED: This opportunity requires Volunteer Onboarding (Profile, Volunteer Handbook Signature), and for those 18 and up, an eligible background check.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to begin completing the required qualifications, or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 

Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Possum Creek MetroPark.  Volunteers should arrive early to allow for parking and arriving on time. Volunteers are scheduled an hour before the program to help with set up, and an hour after the program to help with tear down.  Staff leads meet volunteers in the Education Building and will orient volunteers to the location, tasks, and other important information.Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more.    Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt.  

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider this opportunity:

Shadow Experience: Historic Interpreter

All Program Support

Love kids? Spend your time hanging out with the most adventurous youth in Dayton! The after-school program at Adventure Central promotes positive youth development, education, and leadership skills using an environmental foundation in a welcoming, safe, fun, and active setting. These kids are just bursting with energy and excitement! Depending on where the greatest need is for the day, the Program Assistant may spend time helping in the homework room, assisting in the kitchen during mealtimes, or outdoors monitoring play time and getting roped into all sorts of shenanigans from playing in the creek to jumping rope, to gaga ball!  Volunteers may also assist in the girl's or boy's group discussions and activities.

Impact

Volunteers will build trusting and positive relationships that strengthen values, build lasting life skills, and encourage an eagerness to explore life’s possibilities.  

Tasks

Interact with the kids - play, joke, chat! Monitor play for safety and harmony Assist staff in set-up and clean-up of program materials and equipment Assist in food prep, serving meals, cleaning up and organizing the kitchen after mealtime Support staff or lead designated activities during the programAssist staff with discussions during boy's group or girl's group

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individual Short-term and long-Term, and youth volunteers, ages 14 and up who have completed the Adventure Central Training. 

GET STARTED: This opportunity requires Volunteer Onboarding (Profile, Volunteer Handbook Signature, and for those 18 and up, an eligible background check).  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to begin completing the required qualifications, or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.Volunteers will have completed the virtual training located on the Adventure Central Training Resources page in our Training Library.

Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Wesleyan MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet staff inside Adventure Central, located at 2222 N James H McGee Blvd Dayton, OH 45417. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead,  Ms. Lois, at 937-278-2601.  Environmental & Physical Demands: This project takes place indoors and outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e. sun, poison ivy, ticks, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, reaching, walking, and may be lifting objects of 10lbs or more, etc. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel, and bring a water bottle.

Learn more about the Programming opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page!   Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider this opportunity:

 Program Support Opportunities

Do you enjoy the Hispanic Heritage Festival? Support the event and the frontline staff by showing appreciation to those who work behind the scenes to make it happen! Volunteers are needed to oversee the hospitality room that will supply lunch and dinner to Five Rivers MetroParks staff and volunteers.

Impact

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. Hospitality Attendant Volunteers make sure that hard working staff have access to needed food and drinks to keep them going strong for the duration of the event they are working.  

Tasks

Greet staff and volunteers, in an indoor environment, as they arrive.  Refill snacks and water as needed. Help with waste disposal, including compost and recycling. Provide support for food service providers. Help set up lunch and/or dinner meals.Help keep the area neat and clean.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individuals, public, long-term, and short term volunteers, ages 18 and up. Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer.

 Background Check: We do not require a background check for our public volunteer opportunities; however, persons with a criminal record may be disqualified and prohibited from service. Please review our background check policy here. For those required to complete Court Appointed Community Service, please click here. Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers at the Main Office located at 409 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402. Volunteers must display a valid Volunteer Parking Pass. If you do not have one, please contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to obtain one. Volunteers should meet staff at the rear entrance of the Main Office (facing nearest the river) on the North side of the building. You will be escorted into the building and to the third-floor hospitality room. Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A VOLUNTEER PARKING PASS

Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, April Debrosse, at 937-681-1849. Environment & Physical Demands: Physical duties include standing, walking, in an indoor, climate controlled space. Some light lifting and bending (food trays, small water coolers, and assistance with trash removal) are also required. Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and, if you have one, your green or blue volunteer shirt. Other: Please note that the hospitality room is reserved for MetroParks employees and volunteers only. Hospitality for bands, vendors, and other support personnel for Hispanic Heritage Festival is provided by a third party.Volunteers must abstain from drinking alcohol until after their volunteer shift is finished and must remove their volunteer nametag and any other volunteer apparel when consuming alcohol.

Learn more about Special Events opportunities with us on the Volunteer Position page! Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Want to Branch Out? Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks! Consider this opportunity:

     Small Farm and Food Fest