Opportunities From: Five Rivers MetroParks

Do you love history and have skills in farming, historic restoration, and farm animal care you want to share? Would you like to discover what life would have been like living on a farm in the 1880s? Make an impact by helping staff in the fields, in the barns, and around the farm at the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark. 

Impact

The Historical Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark tells important stories that celebrate our agricultural heritage in the Miami Valley. This heritage includes a significant portion of our local landscape shaped by generations of farmers who groomed and cared for the land. Visitors to Carriage Hill Historical Farm will be immersed in 19th-century farm life, a time when the sustainable farm, home and craft practices we see today were simply practical. Within the preserved house and farm buildings there are demonstrations of heritage skills and crafts by living-history interpreters, both staff and volunteers. Caring for the animals and maintaining historical integrity is imperative to connecting visitors with its history.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

A variety of farm chores including Barn and Animal Care including feeding, watering, stall cleaning. Animals include drafts horses, hogs, sheep, chickens, cows, and donkeys. 

Eligibility  This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Adults (ages 18 and older), Short-Term and Long-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking and meeting a staff lead at the Daniel Arnold Historical Farm - Meet at the big red barn: 7860 E. Shull Rd., Dayton, OH 45424. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead. Cancelation  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the Park Manager, Nick Wheeler, at (937) 508 - 9833.Environment & Physical Demands: Allergy Alert: Farm Animal, Dust, and Hay. Requires routine walking, bending, kneeling, squatting, and lifting up to 25lbs.  Dress: Dress for the weather, and must wear steel-toe boots. If signing up to support multiple shifts or returning to support this opportunity multiple times, volunteers will be asked to dress in period-correct clothing (provided by Carriage Hill MetroPark).  Resources: Click here to learn more about the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm, and click here to review the Carriage Hill Interpretive Guide. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Do you love being around horses and don’t mind getting your hands a bit dirty? Or maybe just looking for a way to give back while getting a great workout? Consider joining our team of Carriage Hill Riding Center Volunteers as a Barn Aide! Barn Aide volunteers are critical to providing daily care for the horses and the equestrian facility in which these beloved animals live, work, and play. Daily tasks include cleaning stalls, turning horses out to pasture, and providing them with fresh food and water. The work is hard, but the rewards are great! All new Riding Center volunteers begin as Barn Aides but can complete additional training to support a variety of programming opportunities at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.

Impact

Volunteers complete essential operational tasks and hands-on daily care which promotes the health and well-being of our horses and allows the Riding Center facility to function on a daily basis.

Tasks Clean stalls and paddocks Clean and refill water buckets Feed hay and/or grain Turn horses in and out Assist staff with general cleaning Groom horses

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Youth, and Long-Term volunteers who have completed the required prerequisite training and are able to make an ongoing commitment to service at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. (8 shifts per year, minimum). Short-term volunteers may be considered depending on the length of service commitment. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Note: 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. 

Additional Notes Parking & Meeting instructions: Meet near the office inside the first barn or find a staff member.
Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last-minute or are running late, please call the Riding Center office cell phone number at #937-689-6939.
Environment & Physical Demands:
Volunteers should prepare to work in outdoor weather conditions, year-round. In this work environment, volunteers will be exposed to cat and horse dander, dust, and other environmental allergens. Visit the Carriage Hill Riding Center Volunteer Training page in our Volunteer Training Library to see what training is required for this opportunity and get started today!   Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Animal Care Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

**This opportunity is open for volunteers in training to be qualified Barn Aides at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. These volunteers have completed the virtual volunteer training and in the in-person Barn Aide training. Now, they will shadow qualified volunteers and Carriage Hill Riding Center staff to practice the skills needed to become a qualified Barn Aide volunteer. **

Barn Aide volunteers are critical to providing daily care for the horses and the equestrian facility in which these beloved animals live, work, and play. Daily tasks include cleaning stalls, turning horses out to pasture, and providing them with fresh food and water. You'll work alongside qualified volunteers at staff to learn how to do each of these tasks until you are able to check off begin completing these tasks more independently during scheduled Barn Aide shifts and are even able to help train others. 

All new Riding Center volunteers begin as Barn Aides but can complete additional training to support a variety of programming opportunities at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.

Impact

Volunteers complete essential operational tasks and hands-on daily care alongside qualified volunteers and staff during these scheduled shadow experiences to ensure the good health and well-being of our horses allowing the Riding Center facility to function on a daily basis.

Tasks Clean stalls and paddocks Clean and refill water buckets Feed hay and/or grain Turn horses in and out Assist staff with general cleaning Groom horses

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Youth, and Long-Term. Short-term who have completed the required prerequisite training and are able to make an ongoing commitment to service at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. (8 shifts per year, minimum). Learn more about our types of service here. Note: 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.  Additional Notes Parking & Meeting instructions: Meet near the office inside the first barn or find a staff member.
Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last-minute or are running late, please call the Riding Center office cell phone number at #937-689-6939.
Environment & Physical Demands:
Volunteers should prepare to work in outdoor weather conditions, year-round. In this work environment, volunteers will be exposed to cat and horse dander, dust, and other environmental allergens. Visit the Carriage Hill Riding Center Volunteer Training page in our Volunteer Training Library to see what training is required for this opportunity and get started today!   Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Animal Care Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

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.

**This opportunity is a SHADOW Experience open to volunteers in training to be qualified Equestrian Trail Guides at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. These volunteers have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the Equestrian Trail Guide volunteer training. Now, they will shadow qualified volunteers and Carriage Hill Riding Center staff to practice the skills needed to become a qualified Equestrian Trail Guide volunteer. **

Help community members enjoy our parks on horseback by supporting our Trail Rides at the Carriage Hill Riding Center as a volunteer Equestrian Trail Guide! Equestrian Trail Guides assist with grooming and saddling the horses, help customers while they get on and off their horses, and untack and clean up once the trail riders return.

In addition to these tasks, Trail Guides will learn to ride on horseback while giving instructions, keeping a watch on spacing and behavior, and answering questions. 

Impact

Trail rides are often a customers’ first exposure to horses, and their experience with us creates a lasting memory and a deep connection to nature through this experience. Volunteers help ensure a safe experience and provide personal attention to each rider.  This extra support allows us to offer a direct connection to large animals and nature through programming.

Tasks - Working alongside qualified volunteers and staff, volunteers in training will do and learn the following at this shadow experience: Groom and tack horses used for trails. Horses remain in cross-ties until the trail is ready to go out (Bridles on horses with halters over the bridles.) Re-check tack and tighten girths before mounting riders. Mount riders, fit stirrups to riders, and give basic instruction on control. Join the trail ride on horseback, assisting participants. Make sure customers are taken care of and a staff member is with the group before mounting your own horse. Assist with Barn Aide responsibilities as needed. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth Volunteers ages 16 and up who have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the Equestrian Trail Guide Training Series. Learn more about our types of service here.  Additional NotesParking & Meeting instructions: Meet near the office inside the first barn or find a staff member.
Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last-minute or are running late, please call the Riding Center office cell phone number at #937-689-6939.
Environment & Physical Demands:
Volunteers should prepare to work in outdoor weather conditions, year-round. In this work environment, volunteers will be exposed to cat and horse dander, dust, and other environmental allergens.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Historic Blacksmith volunteers are needed during the 2025 season to provide interpretation and demonstrations for the Blacksmith shop on the Daniel A Arnold Historic Farm.  

Impact

Volunteers represent what living in the 1880s might have been like, and help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm. 

Tasks

Greet and welcome visitors and school groups. Interpret and provide historic information specific to the Blacksmith Shop on the Daniel A Arnold Historic Farm. Demonstrate simple techniques and make a simple project. Work with staff lead, historic interpreters, and program assistants to provide an engaging event for the public participants. Help train new volunteers as needed.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for Long-Term Volunteers who have qualified as Historic Interpreters, as well as, Historic Blacksmiths. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more.   Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of the opportunity. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's activities including planned demonstrations and to do a historical clothing check.  Volunteers will also have time for a review of what can be demonstrated and other important information. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather. Period apparel is required.  If not yet fitted, the staff lead or volunteer coordinator will contact you to schedule a fitting. 

Volunteers must be qualified as Historic Blacksmiths to serve in this opportunity. To learn more, visit our Historic Blacksmith Volunteer Training page here.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Skilled Trades Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Thank you for volunteering! 

Historic Woodworker volunteers are needed during the 2025 season to provide interpretation and demonstrations for the Wood Shop on the Daniel A Arnold Historic Farm.

Impact

Volunteers represent what living in the 1880s might have been like, and help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm. 

Tasks

Greet and welcome participants. Interpret and provide historical information specific to the Wood Shop on the Daniel A Arnold Historic Farm. Demonstrate simple techniques of tool use. Work with staff lead, historic interpreters, and program assistants to provide an engaging event for the public participants.Help train new volunteers as needed.

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older and have qualified as a historic interpreter, as well as a historic woodworker. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Historic Interpreter Qualification: 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

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more.  

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the event. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's activities including planned demonstrations and to do a historical clothing check.  Volunteers will also have time for a review of what can be demonstrated and other important information.

Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather. Period apparel is required.  If not yet fitted, the staff lead or volunteer coordinator will contact you to schedule a fitting.

Volunteers must be qualified as a Historic Woodworker to serve in this opportunity. To learn more, visit our Historic Woodworker Volunteer Training page here.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Skilled Trades Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Thank you for volunteering! 

The individuals who volunteer their time and talents help put excitement and perspective into the activities at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm. 

The interpretative purpose of the farm is to use the Arnold Family, who once lived at Carriage Hill Farm, as a guide to how a real conservative farm family is in real-time at a real place. Historic Interpreter volunteers bring the history of the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm to life by interpreting 19th-century farm life and demonstrating simple everyday farm tasks. 

Impact

Volunteers represent what living in the 1880s might have been like, and help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm. This opportunity will allow people to enjoy an experience at the historic farm, learn more about  and get a personal introduction to life on the farm.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the historic farm staff, volunteers assist and support with the following:

Greet and welcome visitors to the historic farm. Share information about the farm including the purpose of the buildings, daily farm tasks, special activities that may be offered, the animals on the farm, unique aspects of clothing worn, and how these things relate to modern life.  Be an ambassador for Carriage Hill and share points of interest in the park and upcoming events with visitors.  Assist staff with daily farm tasks in and around the historic homestead to help recreate life on the farm for visitors.  Daily farm tasks may include sweeping the house, doing laundry, and dishes, starting the stove for hot water or making biscuits and cookies, harvesting from the heirloom garden as produce ripens, and general historic chores and craftEach weekend’s focus will be on various demonstrations and volunteer skill-building. Week 1: ropes, cords, spool and rake knitting, narrow bands, spinningWeek 2: cookery in the morning; knitting, weaving, and/or crocheting in the afternoonWeek 3: biscuits in morning; kids games in the afternoon (checkers, Jacob’s ladder, string games, old maid card game, shut the box)Week 4:  quilting and piecing, sewing (hand or machine)Week 5: spinning and winding yarn Engage visitors in the activities on the farm when and where possible and safe to do so. Assist staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program.  Review additional materials prepare for tour groups and visitors Link for Tour Information Guide for Men's Clothing Guide for Women's Clothing Natural Dyes of the 19th Century History of the Sewing Machine

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older and have qualified as a historic interpreter. Learn more about our types of service here. 

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. Historic Interpreter Qualification: 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

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors and outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, and review specific stations, and other important information. Dress: Period apparel is required. Volunteers who need to be still fitted must contact the staff lead to set an appointment before the opportunity.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

 

 

The individuals who volunteer their time and talents help put excitement and perspective into the activities at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm.   This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as Historic Interpreters for the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced Historic Interpreter volunteer and/or Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the skills of a Historic Interpreter. Period clothing is not required for this shadow experience; however, if you move forward to fully qualify as a Historic Interpreter, period clothing will be required.

The interpretative purpose of the farm is to use the Arnold Family, who once lived at Carriage Hill Farm, as a guide to how a real conservative farm family is in real-time at a real place. Historic Interpreter volunteers bring the history of the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm to life by interpreting 19th-century farm life and demonstrating simple everyday farm tasks. 

Impact

Volunteers represent what living in the 1880s might have been like, and help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm. This opportunity will allow people to enjoy an experience at the historic farm, learn more about and get a personal introduction to life on the farm.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the historic farm staff, volunteers assist and support with the following:

Greet and welcome visitors to the historic farm. Share information about the farm including the purpose of the buildings, daily farm tasks, special activities that may be offered, the animals on the farm, unique aspects of clothing worn, and how these things relate to modern life.  Be an ambassador for Carriage Hill and share points of interest in the park and upcoming events with visitors.  Assist staff with daily farm tasks in and around the historic homestead to help recreate life on the farm for visitors.  Daily farm tasks may include sweeping the house, doing laundry, and dishes, starting the stove for hot water or making biscuits and cookies, harvesting from the heirloom garden as produce ripens, and general historic chores and crafts.Each weekend’s focus will be on various demonstrations and volunteer skill-building. Week 1: ropes, cords, spool, and rake knitting, narrow bands, spinningWeek 2: cookery in the morning: camp cookery series; knitting, weaving, and/or crocheting in the afternoonWeek 3: biscuits in morning; kids games in the afternoon (checkers, Jacob’s ladder, string games, old maid card game, shut the box)Week 4:  quilting and piecing, sewing (hand or machine)Week 5: spinning and winding yarn.  Engage visitors in the activities on the farm when and where possible and safe to do so. Assist staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program.  Review additional materials, prepare for tour groups and visitors Link for Tour Information Guide for Men's Clothing Guide for Women's Clothing Natural Dyes of the 19th Century History of the Sewing Machine

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older and have qualified as a historic interpreter. Learn more about our types of service here. 

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. Historic Interpreter Qualification: 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

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors and outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, and review specific stations, and other important information. Dress: Period apparel is NOT required. Volunteers will need to be fitted once they have completed the check-off for Historic Interpreter.    

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

 

  

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation while providing routine animal care for our most important ambassadors! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round. Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care Volunteers provide daily care for these important animal ambassadors year-round at the Twin Valley Welcome Center so that they can continue sharing our message. 

Impact

Volunteers like YOU provide hands-on daily care including monitoring, feeding, and cleaning to promote the health and well-being of our Wildlife Ambassadors so that they can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Tasks

Cleaning & sanitizing - Provide regular cleaning for all Wildlife Animal Ambassador areas. Feeding - Feed the Wildlife Animal Ambassadors as directed by the specific wildlife ambassador’s schedule. Monitoring - Volunteers need to be detailed and observant during each shift taking notes on each wildlife animal ambassador as follows: Note the date of the action (cleaning, feeding, weighing, vet, any other info). Note what food was offered for consumption and what was eaten. Note any other procedure regarding the care of an animal (i.e. warm baths, medications, vitamins). Note any abnormalities noticed in animals (eating habits, physical conditions, etc.). Note defecations and shedding when observed.Sunday shifts alternate food prep and animal weights. Additional tasks as needed: Keeping bird feeders clean and full for the Window on Wildlife display.Supporting annual deep cleaning efforts for Wildlife Animal Ambassador care areas. Alert staff lead when issues arise right away,

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 18 and older and is also open to family-friendly volunteers with adult volunteers (18 and up) with children ages 9 and up who would like to volunteer regularly together. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Note: 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.

Additional Notes

Commitment: Due to the training time invested in this opportunity, we are asking volunteers to commit to signing up for two Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteer shifts per month.  This will allow volunteers to become familiar with the animals and stay updated on our processes. Volunteers who complete the Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care training can continue on to train for Wildlife Ambassador program and outreach opportunities! Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors and outdoors. Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more. Feeding is preferred for morning hours but once trained and checked off with the wildlife ambassadors, you have some flexibility.  If the time selected is not the time you will be doing animal care, please let the staff lead know in advance. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please park in the lot and remember to check in to your volunteer shift before you get to the welcome center.  Click here for a map of Germantown MetroPark.   Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear their MetroParks name badge and apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Animal Care Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Get Started! Visit the Wildlife Ambassador Training Page in our Training Library to see what training is required to become part of the Wildlife Ambassador Volunteers.

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.

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 14-17 - See specific age requirements below). 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.  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.

 

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during the Zion Lutheran Community Festival. Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with community members at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at the Zion Lutheran Church. Staff lead will meet volunteers at booth for set-up. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Watch a young child experience their first pony ride! Be a part of the magic! Volunteering as a Pony Ride Assistant is a fun way to support the Carriage Hill Riding Center on the weekends. For many of our riders, a Pony Ride is their first experience with a horse or pony, and that experience creates a lasting memory. Pony Ride Assistants support the pony ride programming at the Carriage Hill Riding Center leading ponies by hand while the children ride, serving as a spotter, or walking alongside the pony during the ride.

Impact

Volunteers help ensure a safe experience and provide personal attention to each rider and their family. This support allows us to offer a direct connection to large animals and nature through programming.

Tasks Groom & Tack (ponies) Assist rider with helmet Re-check saddle before mounting rider Assist rider onto pony (may involve lifting) One person leads the pony; second person watches the child to ensure a centered position (this can be a customer) Escort the child to and from the pony Keep ponies watered and un-tacked during downtime EligibilityThis opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth Volunteers (ages 14-17) who have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the Carriage Hill Riding Center Pony Ride Assistant Training Series. Learn more about our types of service here. Note: This opportunity is for ages 14 and older. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to Respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval. Additional Notes Check-in with the Staff Lead upon arrival. This opportunity involves standing and walking. Volunteers who are comfortable lifting 25-45 pounds may be asked to assist kids onto their ponies. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

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.

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 14-17 - See specific age requirements below). 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.  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.

 

**This opportunity is open for volunteers in training to be qualified Pony Ride Assistants at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. These volunteers have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the Pony Ride Assistant virtual training. Now, they will shadow qualified volunteers and Carriage Hill Riding Center staff to practice the skills needed to become a qualified Pony Ride Assistant volunteer. **

Watch a young child experience their first pony ride! Be a part of the magic! Volunteering as a Pony Ride Assistant is a fun way to support the Carriage Hill Riding Center on the weekends. For many of our riders, a Pony Ride is their first experience with a horse or pony, and that experience creates a lasting memory. Pony Ride Assistants support the pony ride programming at the Carriage Hill Riding Center leading ponies by hand while the children ride, serving as a spotter, or walking alongside the pony during the ride.

Impact

Volunteers will shadow qualified volunteers and staff to learn how to provide a safe, fun pony ride experience for young children and families attending MetroParks Pony Ride programs.  Volunteer support for this programming allows us to individual attention to all riders and their families providing a life-long memorable experience and fostering a deep connection to animals and nature.

Tasks Groom & Tack (ponies) Assist rider with helmet Re-check saddle before mounting rider Assist rider onto pony (may involve lifting) One person leads the pony; second person watches the child to ensure a centered position (this can be a customer) Escort the child to and from the pony Keep ponies watered and un-tacked during downtime EligibilityThis opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth Volunteers (ages 14-17) who have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the virtual Carriage Hill Riding Center Pony Ride Assistant Training. Learn more about our types of service here. Note: This opportunity is for ages 14 and older. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to Respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval. Additional Notes Check-in with the Staff Lead upon arrival. This opportunity involves standing and walking. Volunteers who are comfortable lifting 25-45 pounds may be asked to assist kids onto their ponies. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

​The 2nd Street Market supports small, local entrepreneurs with a strong emphasis on food, agriculture, gardening, and home decor in an atmosphere that provides a comfortable and inviting gathering place for the diverse population of the greater Dayton area. Our 2nd Street Market is looking for WEEKEND custodial support to help us keep the place sparkling clean. Not only will you get to flex your cleaning muscles, but you'll get to meet and interact with some amazing people from your community.

Impact

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.

Tasks

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

keeping the Market tidy during operational hours, as well as light sweeping, table cleaning, and helping with trash removal after closing. 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.  Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: There is free parking available in the Market lot or street parking nearby: 600 East 2nd Street, Dayton, OH 45402. Please enter through the Market office entrance (the door nearest Webster Street), where you will meet with Market Manager, Lynda Suda, or Market Coordinator, Sally Leatherman.Environmental & Physical Demands: This project takes place primarily indoors; However, you will be outside occasionally. Volunteers should dress for the weather and plan for and be aware of possible indoor allergies (i.e., dust). You can expect to participate in walking, bending, standing, reaching, and/or lifting objects of 30lbs. or more during your volunteer shift.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Lynda Suda at 937-228-2088. Dress: Volunteers should dress to be indoors; However, you may occasionally walk trash out to the dumpster or need to complete outdoor tasks, so please be prepared for the weather. Please wear comfortable shoes, too! Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information

Enjoy the outdoors and help others discover the beauty of nature in our parks at this program support opportunity! Experience in art is not required for this opportunity, but it can make the experience more fun. Click here to learn more about the Paint-A-Park programs including why they were developed and see examples of art created during these programs. 

Impact

Volunteers just like YOU ensure that our program participants are able to learn, grow, and connect with nature through a variety of high quality, nature-based programming offered in our parks.

Tasks

Assist staff lead with preparing supplies and setting up for the program. Welcome participants and assist with getting them signed in. Distribute program supplies including Paint-A-Park kit materials. Assist with participant questions and help troubleshoot any minor problems. Take pictures of the art in progress and the completed art using the provided program IPAD. Collect supplies and assist with program clean up and tear down. 

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Note: 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.

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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.). Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs. or more.   Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available at Eastwood MetroPark. The staff lead will meet you near the Pioneer Shelter where the program will take place. Click here for a map of Eastwood MetroPark.The volunteer shift is scheduled to start 30 minutes before the program begins to allow for parking, meeting up with the staff, and assisting with set up. Staff leads will provide a brief overview of the program and the tasks of the program support volunteer. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather.  Please wear your volunteer name badge and your volunteer apparel. A reusable volunteer vest will be provided as needed. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

 

Do you enjoy gardening? Are native plants and sustainable horticulture your specialty? If not, would you like to learn more?  Join the knowledgeable staff and other volunteers at Aullwood Garden MetroPark.  Participate in the beautification of Dayton's premier Historic Garden Estate and be a part of preserving Marie Aull’s vision to unite gardening with local conservation efforts in a serene setting along the Stillwater River. 

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:

garden and landscape bed clean-up, weeding, edging, mulching, and time-sensitive invasive plant removal preparing the garden beds, plant containers, and Aull House for seasonal programs and events, as needed caring for plants in the Aull House, as requested kneeling, stretching, and lifting 20 pounds will be required. be detail-oriented, follow instructions, and have a willingness to learn. utilize a variety of hand tools including soil knives, spades, pruners, loppers, shovels, and rakes. provide excellent customer service by assisting park visitors with questions and wayfinding.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Adults (ages 18 and older), Long-Term. Learn more about our types of service here.  This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours. Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Aullwood Garden MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Aullwood Maintenance Building: 930 Aullwood Rd, Dayton, OH 45414. The turn-in for the Maintenance Building appears quickly as you round the curve on Aullwood road - Drive slow and safe. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact staff lead, Beth Langford, 937-718-5658. 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 routine bending, kneeling, reaching, dragging and lifting objects of 15lbs.   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 Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

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 the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth. Learn more about our types of service here.  

This opportunity is for ages 14 and older. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to Respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval.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 volunteer t-shirt and name badge, and bring a water bottle.

Visit the Adventure Central Training Resources page in our Training Library to see what training is required for this opportunity.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

 
   

 

 

Do you enjoy being around kids?  Know your way around a kitchen? Support our kitchen staff in preparing, serving, and cleaning up simple meals for the after-school program kids at Adventure Central.

Impact

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

Tasks Assist in food prep and plating meals. Assist in serving meals and providing friendly customer service to the Adventure Central program participants and staff. Assist in cleaning up and organizing the kitchen after mealtime.

Eligibility

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

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,  Lois Woods,  937-278-2601.  Environmental & Physical Demands: This project takes place indoors. Volunteers will need to work safely around hot ovens, sharp knives, and active children.  Volunteers may participate in bending, kneeling, reaching, walking, and lifting objects of 10lbs or more, etc. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their volunteer t-shirt and name badge, and bring a water bottle.Kitchen Support volunteers are welcome to eat a free meal during their volunteer shift, and sometimes take home leftovers!

Visit the Adventure Central Training Resources page in our Training Library to see what training is required for this opportunity.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

 

Looking for a unique and rewarding gardening experience? Join the team of knowledgeable staff and passionate volunteers at Cox Arboretum MetroPark. You will have the chance to maintain and cultivate a variety of specialty gardens, including those at the Barbara Cox Center for Sustainable Horticulture. With a focus on native plants, you will learn effective horticulture techniques that benefit the environment and the community. Don't miss this opportunity to develop your skills and contribute to a sustainable future!

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 assigned Horticulture Technician, support and assist with the following:

Landscape bed maintenance including pruning trees and shrubs, mechanical weed removal, edging, and mulching. A variety of seasonal gardening tasks as assigned. Provide 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 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 last minute or are running late, please contact Todd Strong at (513) 658-0279. 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 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 Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

 

Looking for a way to support MetroParks' gardening efforts in our downtown parks? Do you enjoy promoting beautiful green spaces in an urban setting? Learn and apply effective horticulture techniques with plants chosen for their horticultural benefits, while fostering healthy biodiversity for pollinators.

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 assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Planting and watering annuals, bulbs, perennials, shrubs, and trees Pruning shrubs and trees Deadheading and cutting back perennials Landscape bed maintenance including mechanical weed and leaf removal, edging and mulching, and other gardening tasks as assigned General litter pickup in and around landscape beds Provide excellent customer service by assisting park visitors with questions/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:

Please sign up for your volunteer shift at least 2 days in advance.  Parking & Meeting Instructions: RiverScape and Urban Parks Garden Stewards support staff at a variety of downtown MetroParks. You will receive a weekly email from the staff lead with more information on where to meet. Volunteers support the following parks: RiverScape (237 E. Monument - park in a VISITOR SPOT at the Main Office) Deeds Point (510 Webster St - park in a VISITOR SPOT at the Main Office)Note: If visitor parking is not available, you must display your volunteer parking hang tag in your vehicle. Failure to display your volunteer parking hang tag may result in a parking ticket when parking in the Main Office parking lot. If you do not have a volunteer parking hang tag, please contact Volunteer Services. Island (101 E. Helena St.) 2nd St. Market (600 E. 2nd St.) Sunrise (50 S. Edwin C. Moses – contact staff lead for map) Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call project staff lead, Amy Kennedy, at (937) 789-1085. 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.). Volunteers can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and sometimes lifting objects 25 lbs or more in possibly shaded or direct sunlight. 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 Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

 

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.  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.

The individuals who volunteer their time and talents help put excitement and perspective into the activities at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm. 

The interpretative purpose of the farm is to use the Arnold Family, who once lived at Carriage Hill Farm, as a guide to how a real conservative farm family is in real-time at a real place. Historic Interpreter volunteers bring the history of the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm to life by interpreting 19th-century farm life and demonstrating simple everyday farm tasks. 

Impact

Volunteers represent what living in the 1880s might have been like, and help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm. This opportunity will allow people to enjoy an experience at the historic farm, learn more about  and get a personal introduction to life on the farm.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the historic farm staff, volunteers assist and support with the following:

Greet and welcome visitors to the historic farm. Share information about the farm including the purpose of the buildings, daily farm tasks, special activities that may be offered, the animals on the farm, unique aspects of clothing worn, and how these things relate to modern life.  Be an ambassador for Carriage Hill and share points of interest in the park and upcoming events with visitors.  Assist staff with daily farm tasks in and around the historic homestead to help recreate life on the farm for visitors.  Daily farm tasks may include sweeping the house, doing laundry, and dishes, starting the stove for hot water or making biscuits and cookies, harvesting from the heirloom garden as produce ripens, and general historic chores and crafts.On Tuesdays, volunteers will support a cooking demonstration like making biscuits, making butter or preparing a period dish. On Thursdays, volunteers can support a craft demonstration such as sewing, knitting, rope making or broom making. Assist in hosting tours that come through during the week.  Engage visitors in the activities on the farm when and where possible and safe to do so. Assist staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program.  Review additional materials prepare for tour groups and visitors Link for Tour Information Guide for Men's Clothing Guide for Women's Clothing Natural Dyes of the 19th Century History of the Sewing Machine

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older and have qualified as a historic interpreter. Learn more about our types of service here. 

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. Historic Interpreter Qualification: 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

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors and outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, and review specific stations, and other important information. Dress: Period apparel is required. Volunteers who need to be still fitted must contact the staff lead to set an appointment before the opportunity.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

 

 

Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteers assist staff in conducting lessons and camps at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. These volunteers are the eyes, ears, hands and heart that ensure each participant has a fun, safe, and engaging experience. These volunteers train and qualify as Barn Aides before training to qualify as an Equestrian Arena Assistant. 

Impact

Arena Assistant Volunteers ensure a fun, safe experience riding lesson experience providing a connection to nature through high-quality equine programming. 

Tasks Retrieve horses from stalls or paddocks and lead to cross ties. Assist with grooming and tacking Help with checking tack, getting riders mounted, and adjusting stirrups Assist with aiding and maintaining safe spacing between the horses during the lesson Keep an eye on safety issues throughout the lesson.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth volunteers ages 14 and up who have qualified as Equestrian Arena Assistants. Learn more about our types of service here. To learn more about training to become an Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteer, click here. Note:  Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteers are asked to commit to at least 5 Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteer shifts per year. These 5 shifts can be included in the total of 8 volunteer shifts served annually at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.Note: This opportunity is open to volunteers ages 14 and up. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval to waive your background check. 

Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Meet the staff near the barn office. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last-minute or are running late, please call the Riding Center office cell phone number at #937-689-6939.Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers should expect to work in outside weather conditions, year-round in a typical ban environment with exposure to cat and horse dander, dust, hay, and other environmental allergens.Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if you have it to make you easy to identify as a volunteer.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as an Equestrian Arena Assistant. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the required skills.

Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteers assist staff in conducting lessons and camps at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. These volunteers are the eyes, ears, hands and heart that ensure each participant has a fun, safe, and engaging experience. These volunteers train and qualify as Barn Aides before training to become an Equestrian Arena Assistant. 

Impact

Arena Assistant Volunteers ensure a fun, safe experience riding lesson experience providing a connection to nature through high-quality equine programming. 

Tasks Retrieve horses from stalls or paddocks and lead to cross ties. Assist with grooming and tacking Help with checking tack, getting riders mounted, and adjusting stirrups Assist with aiding and maintaining safe spacing between the horses during the lesson Keep an eye on safety issues throughout the lesson.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth volunteers ages 14 and up who are currently in training to qualify as Equestrian Arena Assistants. Learn more about our types of service here. To learn more about training to become an Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteer, click here. Note:  Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteers are asked to commit to at least 5 Equestrian Arena Assistant volunteer shifts per year. These 5 shifts can be included in the total of 8 volunteer shifts served annually at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.Note: This opportunity is open to volunteers ages 14 and up. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval to waive your background check. 

Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Meet the staff near the barn office. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last-minute or are running late, please call the Riding Center office cell phone number at #937-689-6939.Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers should expect to work in outside weather conditions, year-round in a typical ban environment with exposure to cat and horse dander, dust, hay, and other environmental allergens.Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if you have it to make yourself easy to identify as a volunteer.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Our Outdoor Recreation team creates a learning environment to help individuals enjoy the outdoors in fun and safe activities. Hiking for Older Adults incorporates essential information for people to make a day hike, safely and comfortably, and allows participants to try the trekking poles   Volunteers will support the staff lead and participants as they enjoy nature, increase their activity, and discover new trails and ways to improve physical and mental health in MetroParks. This opportunity will be at Twin Creek MetroPark, and starting at the Hopewell parking lot. Participants will be hiking an easy-to-moderate trail.  

Impact

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 and create a better skill-building environment. Volunteers help people make a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities.

Tasks

Greet and welcome participants. Assist with check-in of participants. Assist staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this unique group hike. Help distribute program materials and supplies as needed. Assist participants in staying with the group by hiking with them, observing any participant changes, and keeping the staff lead aware of any participants having difficulty. Share Park highlights, nature tidbits, and information staff shares with participants farther back on the hike. Assist staff lead in ensuring all participants feel they are part of the program Assist with clean-up and equipment tear-down after the program if needed.

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

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. The environment may have uneven terrain and communication between the leader of the hike and volunteers will use a point-to-point radio. Volunteers should be able to hike the distance of the trails (3 miles in 2 hours).  Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Twin Creek MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet the staff in the parking lot. Your shift time begins 30 minutes before the program starts for quick review and last-minute prep, and to introduce you to this new program. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and your MetroParks name badge and t-shirt. Items like water bottles, sunscreen, and bug spray may help make your hike more comfortable. If you have not yet received your MetroParks name badge, please reach out to volunteer services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org. 

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.  

 

Gardening season is year-round, and our programming team at Possum Creek MetroPark is creating a way for people to learn in our various garden-oriented classes!  Join the team and help us create a more engaging and individualized program for our programs.  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

Possum Creek MetroPark is creating programs to engage people in growing their own produce, learning about the plants, and ways to give back to the community.  During programs volunteers help educate participants about habitats for pollinators and their connection to food production, as well as sustainable gardening.   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 of the room 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: helping participants harvest vegetables and herbs from the garden.Assistthe  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 the following volunteers: Long-Term and Short-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.

Additional Notes:

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more.    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. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt.  

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information more opportunities.  

 

Do you have skills in carpentry, or would like to expand on your carpentry skills? Join our Woodworking at Cox Arboretum volunteer team! Once trained and checked off, volunteers use their skills and expertise to plan, strategize, and craft a variety of woodworking projects! Click here to review the Woodworking at Cox Arboretum MetroPark Volunteer Training.

Impact

Our Skilled Trades volunteers help drive our mission forward by assisting with maintenance projects in fabrication, repair, and interpretation. Through Woodworking, volunteers share their skills and talents to help Five Rivers MetroParks get important build projects accomplished throughout our parks.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, support and assist with the following:

review woodworking project specifications. utilizing woodworking tools and equipment, carry out the build or repair of the assigned project as a team. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Trained, Long-Term, Adult volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here.Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Cox Arboretum MetroPark. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot (6733 Springboro Pike, Dayton, OH 45449) and meet staff at the maintenance building near the south end of the park, just beyond the green wooden gate.Environment & Physical Demands: This project takes place indoors and outdoors - Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, insects, etc.). Volunteers should be aware of seasonal and position-specific allergies (i.e., dust, grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and can expect to participate in routine standing, bending, kneeling, reaching, dragging, and lifting objects of 15lbs, often in a loud environment.Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact Uriah Langmeyer at Uriah.Langmeyer@metroparks.org.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. Avoid wearing baggy or loose clothing as well as long jewelry because it can easily snag in machinery and other sharp tools. Training: New Woodworking at Cox Arboretum MetroPark volunteers can be onboarded any time during the year. To learn more about how to become a Woodworker at Cox Arboretum MetroPark, click here to review the Woodworking at Cox Arboretum MetroPark Volunteer Training. Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Skilled Trades Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.     

Come learn, grow, and give back to the trails you love with this exciting trail maintenance volunteer opportunity! Led by our Trail staff, these trail maintenance opportunities will focus on revitalizing the trail systems in the Twin Valley. Learn alongside like-minded individuals on the why’s and hows of building and maintaining a sustainable trail system on these hands-on workdays.

Impact

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. Volunteers who support Trail Maintenance help MetroParks provide safe, consistent, and high-quality trail experiences for visitors with varied interests and levels of abilities in a manner that protects and sustains the natural resources and habitats at each park.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, support and assist with the following:

​Basic trail maintenance in the Twin Valley; Corridor clearing, drainage clearing, and tread maintenance.

Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Adults. Learn more about our types of service here.Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Germantown MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet staff at the Germantown Maintenance parking lot located at 6675 Conservancy Rd, Germantown, OH 45327, and look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage.  Environment & Physical Demands:  Hiking long distances alone or with a group. The terrain is regularly uneven and muddy, with steep and slippery slopes. You must wear hiking boots. Volunteers will be working in all weather conditions. Routinely bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15 lbs or more. Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call Park Manager Chris Landis at (937) 277-4159.Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants and closed-toe, sturdy hiking boots, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. ​ Please wear your volunteer name badge and, if you have one, your green or blue volunteer shirt. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

What is a Heirloom Garden? Do you enjoy working outside while learning about our local history, particularly as it pertains to growing food? The heirloom kitchen garden and flower beds at the Carriage Hill MetroPark Historic Farm tell important stories that celebrate our agricultural heritage in the Miami Valley. This includes a significant portion of our local landscape shaped by generations of farmers growing a variety of heirloom crops commonly found on farms in the 1880s. So let's grow together at Carriage Hill and get our hands in the soil!

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 assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

planting, weeding, cultivating, seed saving and overall maintenance in our heirloom kitchen garden and historic flower beds. The kitchen garden is on its original 1880s location and yields heirloom vegetables for demonstration usage.

Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below). 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 Carriage Hill MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the historic farm parking lot located at 7860 E. Shull Rd., Dayton, OH 45424, and meet staff at the David Arnold House on the Historic Farm. Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call staff lead Rick Musselman at 937-594-8271. Environmental & Physical Demands: Be aware of outdoor risks such as poison ivy, insects, seasonal allergies, and extended exposure to the sun. ALLERGY ALERT: typical farm environment; hay and animal allergies. Volunteers can expect to participate in routine bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and moving material of 15 pounds or more. 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. ​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 on-site. Historic-period clothing is not required.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

 

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. Don't worry if you don't have any previous experience – we welcome all volunteers to learn by doing and ask questions. 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 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: 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 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. ​ Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

  

 

Ready to turn your love of plants into something ...magical? Join us in the Possum Creek MetroPark Demonstration Garden for our Herbal Harvest! You’ll help gather fresh herbs that will be used in upcoming herbal wellness programs and even in creative cyanotype (a sun-printing art process) projects. Each harvest is a little different — depending on the season and the plants that are ready, you might find yourself clipping fragrant mint, bundling lavender, or labeling dried thyme for future use. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just curious about herbs, our team will guide you through plant identification and harvesting techniques. Together, we’ll create something beautiful, useful, and inspiring for our community.

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:

harvesting, drying, storing, and labeling herbs (these tasks may vary depending on the immediate needs of the day). Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth. Learn more about our types of service here.This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours. 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 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 (e.g., grass, pollen, bees) and can expect to participate in activities that involve bending, kneeling, reaching, walking, and lifting objects weighing 5 pounds or more, which may be done in 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. ​ Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during Kiser Elementary's Back to School Bash. Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with community members at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at Kiser Elementary. Staff lead will meet volunteers at booth for set-up. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

2nd Street Market Culture Kitchen Support volunteers enhance the market experience by helping staff facilitate special evening programs at 2nd Street Market based on seasonal themes. See the schedule below for details:

Thursday, February 13th: Chocolate Tasting CANCELLED

Thursday, May 8th: Thailand

Thursday, June 12th: Ghana

Thursday, July 10th: Belgium

Thursday, August 14th: Farm to Table

Thursday, September 11th: Mexico

Thursday, October 9th: Armenian & Turkish

Impact

The Culture Kitchen programs at the Market provide a unique opportunity for participants to experience an evening of delicious food and quality entertainment at 2nd Street Market! 

Tasks

Welcome and assist participants with check-in procedures

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 the following volunteers: Long-Term and Short-Term. Learn more about our types of service here.

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 and get instructions. New Volunteers will be given an on-site orientation at the beginning of their first shift.

Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Lynda Suda 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.  

Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and, if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. The market may be cool in the winter and warm in the summer. Please dress accordingly.

See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

Individuals who volunteer their time and talents help put excitement and perspective into the activities at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm and the visitor center. Program Support Volunteers are needed and able to participate in various entry opportunities to support programs while not needing to be the expert at the activities. 

Impact

Volunteers enable us to accomplish so much more by lending a hand in simple activities, allowing demonstrators to take a break, or talking with the visitors about the activities while allowing the tasks to be completed.

Tasks

Volunteers in the textile area will help with simple, but essential, tasks such as: Winding yarn from a skein into a ball Sorting buttons Winding modern thread onto wooden spools Cutting simple materials Warping the looms for use Assisting staff with prep needed for an upcoming program If visitors come  to the textile area, greet them and welcome them to Carriage Hill Share with visitors what is happening in the textile room when able Share information about the farm, the historical information on textile skills of the 1800s, and point out highlights of Carriage Hill

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older. Learn more about our types of service here. 

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.

 Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. There will be sharp objects, sewing machines, and other items that require you to be careful and work safely in a small space. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please park and walk to the visitor center. Knock on the door, and the staff will greet you! Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers should arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the opportunity. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information. Dress: Program Support volunteers do not need to wear period apparel. Volunteers should dress for the weather, and wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

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

  

Do you have some sewing, knitting, crocheting, weaving, or other textile skills you are willing to share? MetroParks is helping bring back fiber arts and textile skills, in a variety of programs, with the support of volunteers. This opportunity focuses on using your skills to support creating, maintaining, and repairing items needed at the historic farm and other MetroParks facilities.   Volunteers will need to have experience in one of the textile areas to participate, but there are opportunities to learn and grow skills during the workdays. Projects may vary each week, as the core of volunteers is developed, and a skills assessment will be done at the start of each project for those who are ready.

Impact

Volunteers will support efforts on the historic farm by making the textile materials needed for the interpretive team of staff and volunteers to accurately represent what living on an 1880s farm might have been like.

Tasks 

Under the supervision of the assigned Staff Lead volunteers will

Projects will be staff-driven needs for historic clothing, items for the historic house, and support of other programming needs, and will start with a simple project to assess the skill level of the interested volunteers.Support and assist staff with cutting out the pattern, simple sewing by hand and machine, and correct care of the finished project.
Knit and/or crochet items needed for winter wear. Items may include scarves, hats, socks, and wristers. Weaving will focus on scarves for use by the historic interpreters, towels for use in the kitchen of the Arnold home, and napkins for special programs.Volunteers will be working in small numbers and rotating the tasks/steps to make the project build proficiency in each of the steps of the project. Those volunteers who have done the modern knitting machine training can make socks, do simple projects, and demonstrate simple kid's bracelets for visitors. Visitors are welcomed into the textile room and may observe as volunteers are mending, making repairs, creating new clothing items, adding new buttons for historic clothing, and practicing their skills at Carriage Hill.Volunteers can support the staff lead with demonstrations while learning in the newer tools. Support new volunteers with gaining skills. 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older. Learn more about our types of service here. 

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.

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. There will be sharp objects, knitting machines, looms, sewing machines, and other items that require you to be careful and work safely in a small space. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please park and walk to the lower level entrance at the back of the visitor center. Knock on the Textile volunteer entrance door and the staff will greet you! Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers should arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the opportunity. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information. Dress: Volunteers do not need to wear period apparel. Volunteers should dress for the weather, and wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Skilled Trades Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

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

Thank you for volunteering! 

 

 

Individuals who volunteer their time and talents help put excitement and perspective into the activities at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm and the visitor center. Program Support Volunteers are needed and able to participate in various entry opportunities to support programs while not needing to be the expert at the activities.  This opportunity is focused on a 19th-century interpretative demonstration  or class using recipes from a 19th-century cookbook, Camp Cookery (1878). 

Impact

Volunteers enable us to accomplish so much more by lending a hand in simple activities, allowing demonstrators to take a break, or talking with the visitors about the activities while allowing the tasks to be completed.

Tasks Assist the staff lead with setup and teardown of the program or demonstration.Welcome and greet visitors at the activity stationGather and distribute materials as neededAssist with simple, but essential, culinary tasks May assist with documenting the event through photos. Encourage volunteerism, and help direct to the website for information 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: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 30 minutes 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. There will be sharp objects and other items that require you to be careful and work safely in a small space.  Dress: Program Support volunteers do not need to be in period apparel. Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on programming opportunities with us.  

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

Do you like getting your hands dirty, learning new skills, and supporting a variety of parks and conservation efforts? Get ready to join in the fun at the Hills & Dales Volunteer Workdays! You'll have the chance to get involved in a range of exciting park and conservation projects, such as gardening, tree plantings, invasive species removal, and mulching. It's a great opportunity to make a positive impact and enjoy the outdoors with a fantastic group of volunteers!

Impact

Urban woodlands like those at Hills & Dales are critical to the health and quality of life within our cities. They are dynamic ecosystems that provide clean air and water. This historical urban forest has been a natural refuge for Daytonians since 1907. Our Park Maintenance volunteers help to manage and sustain Hills & Dales MetroPark for park visitors to safely enjoy.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

a variety of parks and conservation projects including invasive species removal, garden maintenance, native tree and shrub planting, mulching, sanding park benches, and other priority projects. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Adults.  Learn more about our types of service here.Additional Notes Please sign up for your volunteer shift at least 1 day in advance. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Hills & Dales MetroPark. Volunteers will receive an email the day before their shift with instructions on where they should meet the staff lead in the park. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Volunteer Coordinator, Allie Zimmerman, at (937) 247-3176. 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 bending, kneeling, pulling, lifting, hiking on potentially uneven terrain, and lifting and dragging objects 15lbs or more.  Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information   

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors during the Get Outside Book Club.  Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support a general Wildlife Ambassador presentation during this book club event. Animals (turtle, snake, owl) will be presented in between book readings. 

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at the Dayton Metro Library - Miami Township Branch located at 2718 Lyons Rd, Miamisburg OH 45342. Please park and meet your staff lead(s) in the main parking lot. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Come learn, grow, and give back to the trails you love with this exciting trail maintenance volunteer opportunity! Led by our Trail staff, these trail maintenance opportunities will focus on revitalizing the trail systems in Englewood MetroPark. Learn alongside like-minded individuals on the whys and how's of building and maintaining a sustainable trail system on these hands-on workdays.

Impact

Volunteers who support Trail Maintenance help MetroParks provide safe, consistent, and high-quality trail experiences for visitors with varied interests and levels of abilities in a manner that protects and sustains the natural resources and habitats at each park.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, support and assist with the following:

​Basic trail maintenance at Englewood MetroPark; Corridor clearing, drainage clearing, tread maintenance, and invasive removal.

Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Adults. Learn more about our types of service here.Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Englewood MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Englewood Park Office: 987 Pattys Rd, Vandalia, OH 45377.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 hiking long distances, bending, kneeling, reaching, dragging, and lifting objects of 15 lbs. The terrain is regularly uneven and muddy, with steep and slippery slopes. You must wear hiking boots. Volunteers will be working in all weather conditions.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call Ron Bicknell at (937) 999-7972.Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants and closed-toe, sturdy hiking boots, and have their favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. ​Please wear your volunteer t-shirt and name tag. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

At the heart of every youth and family event are unique experiences that spark wonder and interest for chilren. If you’ve ever been curious about origami, we have a fantastic opportunity for you! You can join us for our prep sessions, and join us at this year’s Fall Family Adventure, where we’ll showcase a delightful origami owl. We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help us prepare these charming owls to showcase on a tree. 

Origami is a beautiful Japanese art form that transforms a simple square sheet of paper into intricate designs solely through folding—no glue or scissors needed! While the owl is a straightforward design, it’s perfect for our autumn event.

Come learn and practice with us as we create adorable owls for families to enjoy. If you find you love doing this, there is a special place at the Fall Family Adventure on October 18, helping show others home much fun you can have with a simple piece of paper.Let’s make this event memorable together! 

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, safety, and FUN into our programs for all interested in learning! 

Tasks Arrive and check in with your Staff Lead to review videos and prepare supplies. Volunteers will learn how to make and create origami owls simultaneously.Review these videos as examples of the possible owls that will be made. Easy Origami OwlOrigami Owl version 2Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 16-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.

Additional Notes:

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here to view the map of Wegerzyn Gardens. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot in front of the Administrative building and meet inside the building.  Please plan to arrive early to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This is an indoor activity.  This opportunity involves working with paper and doing multiple folds to create the owl.  Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.  

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and move some rock! We're looking for volunteers to help restore the beautiful rock garden on Aullwood Garden's Sycamore Hillside. Created by John and Marie Aull, this historic garden has changed over time due to erosion, and now it's our chance to bring it back to life using old photographs and Marie’s journals. 

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:

assist with rock placements, clearing out invasives, soil amendments, and stabilizing the hillside to protect the trees above.re-establish the rock garden tiers while also adding historically accurate as possible plants that Marie had within the rock garden beds.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Adults (ages 18 and older), Long-Term. Learn more about our types of service here.  This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours. Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Aullwood Garden MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Aullwood Maintenance Building: 930 Aullwood Rd, Dayton, OH 45414. The turn-in for the Maintenance Building appears quickly as you round the curve on Aullwood road - Drive slow and safe. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact staff lead, Beth Langford, 937-718-5658. 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 routine bending, kneeling, reaching, lifting objects of 15 lbs. or more, twisting, working on uneven terrain and on a hillside. 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 Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

 

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. Don't worry if you don't have any previous experience – we welcome all volunteers to learn by doing and ask questions. 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 the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth. Learn more about our types of service 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 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. ​ Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

  

 

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during the Hispanic Festival. Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with community members at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at the RiverScape MetroPark. Staff lead will meet volunteers at booth for set-up. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during the Dayton Peace Expo. Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with community members at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Responsibilities

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at the Dayton Convention Center. Staff lead will meet volunteers at booth for set-up. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Do you want to participate in an event that helps connect you to nature by introducing visitors to the vibrant outdoor adventure lifestyle and culture?  The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience is a production of Five Rivers MetroParks and is the Midwest’s premier outdoor adventure festival! Volunteers will assist us in getting the word out, share excitement about the amazing opportunities to experience at the event, and let people know they can camp, connect, compete, and experience dozens of outdoor activities. Volunteers will visit area businesses to hang and distribute event posters and palm cards.

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down. Volunteers help make this event known to all who might be interested in learning more about an active way to experience the outdoors and connect with nature locally while helping protect our region’s natural heritage

Tasks Volunteers will be given a list of places to visit in the areas East of Dayton (Kettering, Oakwood, Beavercreek, etc) to distribute posters. Volunteers should introduce themselves as a volunteer with the Five Rivers MetroParks. Volunteers will ask for permission to hang posters using tape or pushpins provided. Volunteers should take notes on which places they visited and which were willing to display a poster and/or distribute palm cards, and report back to staff. Volunteers must be able to make deliveries before September 22nd. Distribution can occur on the volunteer's schedule--no set days or times, as long as deliveries are made before September 22nd.
Volunteers unable to complete deliveries must contact the staff lead right away so that alternative delivery arrangements can be made. 10 AM - 5 PM would be the best time to deliver most items, or on weekends, depending on the businesses Volunteers need to be able to pick up all supplies and instructions at the Main Office, 409 E Monument Ave, Third Floor, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. between the dates of September 8th- September 17th.Volunteers may find additional places to visit that are not on the list. Look for places connected to recreation, close to bikeways, or places where people hang out: restaurants, coffee shops, gear shops, etc.EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Youth.  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. 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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will be parking at various locations around Montgomery County. Please be sure to follow all parking rules at the various locations you visit. When picking up supplies from the MetroParks Main Office, volunteers may park in the visitor spots or may park elsewhere in the lot with a volunteer parking hangtag. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel this opportunity, please notify the staff lead, Shelby Shaw, at 435-890-2003. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Physical duties include driving, walking, and some standing to distribute posters and palm cards. Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and your green or blue volunteer shirt, if you have them.Other: Please note that volunteers will be driving their own vehicles to the various locations on their delivery route. Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Do you want to participate in an event that helps connect you to nature by introducing visitors to the vibrant outdoor adventure lifestyle and culture?  The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience is a production of Five Rivers MetroParks and is the Midwest’s premier outdoor adventure festival! Volunteers will assist us in getting the word out, share excitement about the amazing opportunities to experience at the event, and let people know they can camp, connect, compete, and experience dozens of outdoor activities. Volunteers will visit area businesses to hang and distribute event posters and palm cards.

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down. Volunteers help make this event known to all who might be interested in learning more about an active way to experience the outdoors and connect with nature locally while helping protect our region’s natural heritage

Tasks Volunteers will be given a list of places to visit in the areas South of Dayton (Centerville, Dayton Mall area, Miamisburg, etc) to distribute posters. Volunteers should introduce themselves as a volunteer with the Five Rivers MetroParks. Volunteers will ask for permission to hang posters using tape or pushpins provided. Volunteers should take notes on which places they visited and which were willing to display a poster and/or distribute palm cards, and report back to staff. Volunteers must be able to make deliveries before September 22nd. Distribution can occur on the volunteer's schedule--no set days or times, as long as deliveries are made before September 22nd.
Volunteers unable to complete deliveries must contact the staff lead right away so that alternative delivery arrangements can be made. 10 AM - 5 PM would be the best time to deliver most items, or on weekends, depending on the businesses Volunteers need to be able to pick up all supplies and instructions at the Main Office, 409 E Monument Ave, Third Floor, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. between the dates of September 8th- September 17th.Volunteers may find additional places to visit that are not on the list. Look for places connected to recreation, close to bikeways, or places where people hang out: restaurants, coffee shops, gear shops, etc.EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Youth.  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. 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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will be parking at various locations around Montgomery County. Please be sure to follow all parking rules at the various locations you visit. When picking up supplies from the MetroParks Main Office, volunteers may park in the visitor spots or may park elsewhere in the lot with a volunteer parking hangtag. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel this opportunity, please notify the staff lead, Shelby Shaw, at 435-890-2003. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Physical duties include driving, walking, and some standing to distribute posters and palm cards. Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge and your green or blue volunteer shirt, if you have them.Other: Please note that volunteers will be driving their own vehicles to the various locations on their delivery route. Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during Passport to Kindergarten! Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with the public at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at Dayton Metro Library - Main Branch.Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Join us as we share our furs, bones, and other nature related items at our booth during Passport to Kindergarten! Qualified Tactile Nature Interpreter volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the items, and engage with the public at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers Tactile Nature Interpreters assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Responsibilities

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of booth. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the materials. Encourage public to touch and handle the furs and bones. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Tactile Nature Interpretation Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Tactile Nature Interpreter volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at Dayton Metro Library - Main Branch.Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors during the Get Outside Book Club.  Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support a general Wildlife Ambassador presentation during this book club event. Animals (turtle, snake, owl) will be presented in between book readings. 

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at the Dayton Metro Library - Northmont Branch located at 700 W National Rd, Englewood, OH 45322. Please park and meet your staff lead(s) in the main parking lot. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

School Program volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, and safety into our school field trips. Those who support the school program field trips allow staff to extend the opportunities for school groups to get outside into a living classroom and connect STEM standards to real situations. Some of these field trips are also offered to Scouts and other groups who want to learn about nature.   Volunteers enable more individualized support for first-time learners and create an inclusive skill-building environment. Volunteers help make it possible for kids and teachers to develop a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities.

Discovering Soils Field Trip

School group size:  Girl Scouts

15 Girl Scouts 2nd-4th grade and 3 chaperones  

Growing Gardeners is an interactive school field trip throughout the season at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, engaging young learners in a variety of activities and topics relating to soil science, and composting. Students will get their hands dirty digging and examining soil, learning what makes it so important and how composting is a great way to keep our soil thriving.  Volunteers will help with groups of children in sensory exploration in nature and be a part of inspiring future generations of gardeners!

Tasks 

Welcome participants, assist with check-in, and help organize the group upon arrival.  Help staff with program set-up & tear-down, including distributing program supplies.   Assist with executing program objectives. Lead or assist in leading various stations within the specific field trip.  Assist with guided hikes (1-to-3 miles) and participate with children in program activities. Provide excellent customer service to participants and visitors. 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term volunteers who have qualified as a School Program volunteer. Learn more about our types of service here. This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours. If you missed the training session but are interested in responding to this opportunity, email volunteer.services@metroparks.org to review the training materials.

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers may lead a group over uneven terrain and may be walking (1-to 3-mile hikes) during this opportunity.

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet staff at Skeeter's Garden.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 1/2 hour before the school arrives for a brief orientation, review of stations and to gather supplies needed.  

Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt,  long pants, closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite teaching aids, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. 

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information. 

 

Join us as we present out Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during the Animals of Ohio field trip series! Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff with the presentation, handle the animals, and engage with school groups.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Responsibilities

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up and putting the ambassadors back into their enclosures. Welcome the school group, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Assist staff in the presentation portion of the trip. Handle the animal related to the presentation and answer questions from the children. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at the Twin Valley Welcome Center, inside the classroom. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Be a part of our event setup team and help build The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience!  Under the supervision of MetroParks staff, Event Setup volunteers help build the event by setting up various areas such as the Exhibitor Village, Info Central, Bike Village, Action Sports Area, Youth Zone, etc. Volunteers also assist in unloading, organizing, and securing equipment in appropriate areas.

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down.  

Tasks Help staff unload, organize, and collect equipment and gear that will be distributed throughout the event site. Help staff set up tents, displays, signage, banners, tables, chairs, etc. Use safe lifting techniques, proper hand tools for the job, and safety gear as appropriate and necessary. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.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.  Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroPark.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Shelby Shaw, at 937-274-3117. Environment and Physical Demands: This position does involve heavy lifting. Hand carts, dollies, and hand tools will be available for volunteer use. Volunteers will be provided with all needed equipment and safety gear on-site. This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

Be a part of making someone's experience memorable during the Cox Arboretum Member Event! Help transport guests to and from the Visitor Center and the Maimon Memorial Garden, providing comfort and care during this special member event.

Impact

Volunteers who drive the trams serve a critical role in ensuring event logistics, large-scale programs, and special programming run smoothly.   

Tasks

Under the supervision of the staff lead, the volunteer will:

Provide safe transportation to visitors at this special event Offer excellent customer service when interacting with guests Help guests with wayfinding EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-term volunteers who have been checked off on the TRAMs.  Learn more about our types of service here. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please arrive 15 minutes early so you can park and retrieve the TRAM. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot and meet the staff lead at the TRAM garage.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at Environment & Physical Demands: This opportunity takes place outdoors. Please be aware of outdoor exposure risks (i.e., sun, poison ivy, insects, etc.). Volunteers should be mindful of seasonal allergies (i.e., grass, pollen, bees, etc.), and may participate in some bending, kneeling, and reaching.  Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear closed-toe shoes, their MetroParks name badge, and a volunteer t-shirt. Items such as water bottles, sunscreen, and bug spray can help make your shift more comfortable. If you have not yet received your MetroParks name badge, please reach out to volunteer services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org.  Visit the Vehicle Driver Training page in our Training Library to review the volunteer training required for this opportunity.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position for more information on Special Event volunteer opportunities with us.

School Program volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, and safety into our school field trips. Those who support the school program field trips allow staff to extend the opportunities for school groups to get outside into a living classroom and connect STEM standards to real situations. Volunteers enable more individualized support for first-time learners and create an inclusive skill-building environment. Volunteers help make it possible for kids and teachers to develop a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities.

Growing Gardeners Field Trip

School group size:  International School at Residence Park 

50  3rd - 5th grade,  students (ESL) with 5-8 chaperones  

Growing Gardeners is an interactive school field trip throughout the season at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, engaging young learners in a variety of activities and topics such as soil science, plant identification, guided nature hikes, and basic gardening tasks. Volunteers will help with groups of children in sensory exploration in nature and be a part of inspiring future generations of gardeners!

Tasks 

Welcome participants, assist with check-in, and help organize the group upon arrival.  Help staff with program set-up & tear-down, including distributing program supplies.   Assist with executing program objectives. Lead or assist in leading various stations within the specific field trip.  Assist with guided hikes (1-to-3 miles) and participate with children in program activities. Provide excellent customer service to participants and visitors. 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term who have qualified as a School Program volunteer. Learn more about our types of service here. This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours. If you missed the training session but are interested in responding to this opportunity, email volunteer.services@metroparks.org to review the training materials.

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers may lead a group over uneven terrain and may be walking (1-to 3-mile hikes) during this opportunity.

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet staff at Skeeter's Garden.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 1/2 hour before the school arrives for a brief orientation, review of stations, and to gather supplies needed.  

Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt,  long pants, closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite teaching aids, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. 

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information. 

 

Help set up and support the region's premier outdoor adventure festival – The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Working with MetroParks staff, Exhibitor Support & Set Up volunteers assist with building the event by working directly with exhibitors to load in and set up their booths. These volunteers support other set-up duties as needed. 

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down.  

Tasks Review the exhibitor area and general event layout. Greet and welcome exhibitors as they arrive. Ensure exhibitors are checked in on the provided sheet and give them their nametag and info packet. Answer any questions regarding the event, and direct any questions you are unsure how to answer to the staff. Assist with unloading and getting supplies to the exhibitor's assigned booth area. Utilize available hand carts, dollies, and other small hand equipment as needed.  Use safe lifting techniques, proper hand tools, and safety gear as appropriate and necessary. Volunteers will be provided with all needed equipment and safety gear on site.EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.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. Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroParkCancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Shelby Shaw, at 937-274-3117. Environment and Physical Demands: This position does involve heavy lifting. Hand carts, dollies, and hand tools will be available for volunteer use. Volunteers will be provided with all needed equipment and safety gear on-site. This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Help support other amazing volunteers and staff at The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience by helping manage the hospitality service! Volunteers will help coordinate meals, snacks, and beverages for event volunteers, sponsors, and staff, providing much-needed support for those giving their time to make this event a success! 

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down.  

Tasks Help to support fellow volunteers, staff, and sponsors, primarily those who may be unable to leave their stations, by keeping food and beverages replenished at drop-off/replenish station locations. Note: This volunteer opportunity will involve driving a gator to and from drop-off locations. Monitor and refresh cart items throughout the shift. Answer questions about the event and Five Rivers MetroParks to the best of your ability. Provide excellent customer service to ensure a positive visitor and volunteer experience. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here. Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroParkCancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Bernadette Whitworth, at 937-276-7056. Environment and Physical Demands: Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up and tear down booth materials. This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Sustainability volunteers support the Waste Free Initiative at The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience by serving as Waste Free Educators, providing guidance to the public on how to properly dispose of their event waste as compost or recycling, educating the public on our Waste Free Initiative, and encouraging more sustainable living beyond the event.

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down.  

Tasks Assist guests in the proper placement of recyclables, compostables, or trash. Create an independent learning moment by sharing our Waste-Free Initiative and pointing out the composting and recycling stations throughout the event.  Assist with setting up or tearing down booth materials as needed.EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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. 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.  Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroParkCancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Chris Pion, at 937-275-5032.Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Five Rivers MetroParks will be offering "try it" opportunities at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience including Try Paddlesports! Led by expert staff, these event activities provide an opportunity to learn basic paddling skills and safety while on the water. Paddling opportunities will include paddling a kayak, canoe, stand-up paddleboard (SUP), and possibly other paddle craft.  Volunteers help make this a safer and more engaging experience, as well as, share how to enjoy the region's various water features. Prior paddling experience and completion of Five Rivers MetroParks Safety Boater Training is required.

Impact

Safety Boaters support the Try Paddlesports activity area at the event. This area is designed to offer a beginning-level paddling experience for visitors on the lagoon at Eastwood MetroPark.

Tasks Safely paddle throughout the Try Paddlesports paddling area. Provide paddling tips to participants. Alert staff to any issues, concerns, or hazards. Help set up and tear down as needed.You are the face of MetroParks at this event...smile, be enthusiastic, and enjoy the event! EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.Prior paddling experience and completion of Five Rivers MetroParks Safety Boater Training are required. Additional NotesIMPORTANT: Please review this Concussion Awareness Handout from the CDC before your volunteer shift. If you suspect that any participant might be showing signs or symptoms of a concussion, alert Five Rivers MetroParks staff right away.Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.  Click here for a map of Eastwood MetroPark. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Tyler Middlestead, at 937-671-1152.Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. This opportunity requires volunteers to be near the water and be observant of their surroundings. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for programming volunteer opportunities with us.

Five Rivers MetroParks will be offering "try it" opportunities at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience including Try Paddlesports! Led by expert staff, these event activities provide an opportunity to learn basic paddling skills and safety while on the water. Volunteers will help participants into and out of boats, provide safety support, as well as give site directions. Volunteers help make this a safer and more engaging experience.

Impact

Program Support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming like these to the public. These volunteers assist with various tasks including set up, tear down, registration, and program education. This particular volunteer opportunity will support and assist participants in and out of boats at the Paddlesports area at the event. 

Tasks Greet and welcome participants to the event and the paddlesport area. Ensure each paddler is wearing an activity wristband and properly fitted life jacket. Assist staff lead with posted safety guidelines for participation in recreation activities as needed. Assist paddlers with finding a boat. Assist people with moving into boats from the dock to the water and vice versa. Monitor the dock area and water for safety. Answer any questions to the best of your ability, and direct them to staff if unsure. Help set up and tear down as needed. You are the face of MetroParks at this event...smile, be enthusiastic, and enjoy the event! EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Public Service.  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.Additional Notes IMPORTANT: Please review this Concussion Awareness Handout from the CDC before your volunteer shift. If you suspect that any participant might be showing signs or symptoms of a concussion, alert Five Rivers MetroParks staff right away.Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants in and out of the boats, and rotate for breaks.  You can review this video on fitting a life jacket before coming to your shift: Appropriate fitting of a Life Jacket.  Staff will review the correct life jacket fitting at the beginning of each shift. Click here for a map of Eastwood MetroPark. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Tyler Middlestead, at 937-671-1152.Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. This opportunity requires volunteers to be near the water and be observant of their surroundings. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge and t-shirt, and closed-toe shoes, and have their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Reusable volunteer vests and nametags will be provided for you at volunteer check-in onsite.Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

TRAM Shuttle Driver volunteers enable the event to be more accessible to all individuals. They provide excellent customer service to the public and are many times the first contact for visitors to the event. By providing assistance as shuttle drivers, these volunteers allow visitors to be able to enjoy the event by offering rides to and from the parking area and the event footprint. 

Impact

Special Event volunteers play a critical role in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly, from setup to teardown.

Tasks Welcome visitors to the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience. Assist visitors by providing rides in the TRAM to and from the pick-up zones. Drive visitors safely to the main event drop-off location and back again to the parking lot drop-off location. Be familiar with facts and key features of the event to share with passengers on the way to the event drop-off location. Answer questions about the event & Five Rivers MetroParks to the best of your ability. Contact the staff with any questions you are unable to confidently answer. Keep a supply of event brochures available to distribute to visitors and refer to when referencing points of interest. Smile, and share your enthusiasm for the event and your Five Rivers MetroParks! You are the first face of the event for thousands of visitors! EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.

 Volunteers for this opportunity will need to be trained and qualified on our TRAMs and have the TRAM checkoff completed.

Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Volunteers may park in the Eastwood MetroPark Springfield Street Parking Lot (near the lagoon). Check in with Volunteer Central at the Bluegrass Shelter near the Lagoon. After check-in, meet with the staff lead at the Info Central booth, where you will receive a brief on-site orientation. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.  A review of the route and safety protocols will be conducted at the beginning of each shift.Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroPark.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Chris Buck, at 937-567-4405. Environment and Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting. This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Please note that later shifts will involve driving after dark. Please be sure that you are comfortable driving the TRAM in nighttime conditions if you select a later shift.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for programming volunteer opportunities with us.

A new fun skill-builder offering at our Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience in our fishing lineup.  Program support volunteers give more individualized attention to new learners!  Our Outdoor Recreation team creates a learning environment to help individuals build casting skills to be successful in their fishing activities.  Catching a fish can be so exciting and rewarding, and a family activity many can enjoy.  Volunteers will help participants in the fishing area learn how to cast and practice casting skills.  Volunteers should know how to cast and have some fishing knowledge.

Impact

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 and create a better skill-building environment to test/hone casting skills. Volunteers help people make a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities.

Tasks Greet and welcome participants. Assist staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this unique fishing skill. The volunteer would help manage time spent at the casting location to help with the flow of people. Help distribute program materials and supplies as needed. Assist participants in following the instructor's direction by walking around and observing. Assist with participants casting and instructions. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term and Short-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.Additional NotesIMPORTANT: Please review this Concussion Awareness Handout from the CDC before your volunteer shift. If you suspect that any participant might be showing signs or symptoms of a concussion, alert Five Rivers MetroParks staff right away.Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.  Click here for a map of Eastwood MetroPark. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Thomas Nugent, at 740-403-2946.Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. This opportunity requires volunteers to be near the water and be observant of their surroundings. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

Five Rivers MetroParks is excited to offer "try-it" opportunities at the Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Activity areas available include the mountain bike track, pump track, tot track, climbing wall, and slackline. Volunteers will be supervised by staff and will learn how to size bikes and properly fit helmets in the cycling areas. In all activity areas, volunteers will also be taught how to check for waivers and remain vigilant about safety issues that may arise while overseeing the events in the Action Sports area.

These activities provide participants with the chance to try something new and experience the joy of the outdoors. Volunteers play a crucial role in making this a safer and more engaging experience while sharing information about the various bikeways in the region.

Impact

Program Support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming like these to the public. These volunteers assist with various tasks, including setup, teardown, registration, and line management. Volunteers support and assist in providing excellent customer service at this MetroPark event.

Tasks Greet and welcome participants to the event and the Action Sports area. Ensure each participant is wearing an activity wristband. Watch this video to learn more about our activity waivers. Review and ensure activity participants follow the posted safety guidelines.Assist with helmet and bike fitting. Monitor the participants and equipment for safety. Answer any questions to your ability and direct them to staff if unsure. Assist participants in getting on and off the track, if needed. Help set up and tear down as needed. You are the face of MetroParks at this event...smile, be enthusiastic, and enjoy the event! Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following types of volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Public Service.  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.Additional NotesIMPORTANT: Please review this Concussion Awareness Handout from the CDC before your volunteer shift. If you suspect that any participant might be showing signs or symptoms of a concussion, alert Five Rivers MetroParks staff right away.Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.  Click here for a map of Eastwood MetroPark. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Jordan Hart, at 937-216-9733.Environment & Physical Demands: This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with community members at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Impact

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at Eastwood MetroPark. The address for volunteer parking is listed below. Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Be the friendly face and smile that welcomes visitors to the return of The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Info Central and Waiver Support volunteers are stationed at the entrance as well as at the waiver stations at the event and help welcome visitors, provide event information, distribute programs, and assist participants with completing activity waivers.

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down.  

Tasks Greet the community as they enter The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience and thank them as they leave. Use the hand counters to record how many people enter the doorway for the event. Distribute programs as needed. Direct visitors to ways to start their experience at the event. Help guests understand the layout of The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience, answer questions, and be able to direct the community to activity areas, presentations, entertainment, demonstration times, and various locations. Direct presenters, volunteers, and vendors to check in.Watch this video to learn more about camping at the event. Make sure visitors know there is an activity waiver form for those who want to try an activity and have it available to sign, or direct them to other waiver stations. Watch this video to learn more about our activity waivers, and follow the process below for assisting visitors with the activity waivers: Read the inherent risks to the visitors and have them initial the inherent risk section of the waiver. Note: If under 18, a legal parent or guardian must sign for them; grandparents, aunts, uncles, or anyone who is not a legal guardian cannot sign the waivers.Give visitors who have completed the event waiver form a wristband.Alphabetically file the event waiver forms in the file folder box. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Public Service.  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. Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks.Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroParkCancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Andrea Reed, at 937-430-6003. Environment and Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting. This program 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.). Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Please note that this opportunity covers both the information tent as well as the waiver stations. Volunteers will be assigned to one of these two areas based on need. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Be the friendly face and smile that welcomes visitors to the return of The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience! Event Ambassadors are stationed at points within the event and provide event information, answer questions, help with wayfinding, and promote MetroParks.

Impact

Ambassadors are often the first friendly faces a visitor sees, welcoming them to the event and can be counted on to share helpful information and answer a variety of questions.

Tasks Help visitors by answering questions, assisting with wayfinding, and providing suggestions for activities. Help supply the public with information on MetroParks' facilities, events, and programs. 
Direct presenters, volunteers, and vendors to check in. Make sure visitors know there is an activity waiver form for those who want to try an activity and direct them to the waiver stations. Watch this video to learn more about our activity waivers.EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term & Short-Term.  Learn more about our types of service here.Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. The staff lead will orient volunteers to the activity, review how to safely and efficiently assist participants, and rotate for breaks. Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroPark.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Andrea Reed, at 937-430-6003. Environment and Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Ambassador Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Help us wrap up the region's premier outdoor adventure festival – The Wagner Subaru Outdoor Experience!  Clean-up and tear-down are essential parts of a well-run event, and for park users to be able to enjoy a clean, safe park after an event. Teardown volunteer support and assist with deconstructing the event by tearing down various areas around the park. 

Impact

Special Event volunteers are critical in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to tear-down.  

Tasks Help staff with tearing down tents, tables, chairs, banners, displays, etc. Help disassemble, organize, and collect equipment and gear distributed throughout the event site.   Load supplies and equipment onto trailers and vehicles.Use safe lifting techniques, proper hand tools, and safety gear as appropriate and necessary. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.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.  Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: Parking is available for volunteers off Springfield Street. Volunteers should check in at Volunteer Central in the Bluegrass Shelter by the lagoon. Please arrive 15 minutes early to park, check in, and get to your volunteer location. Click here to view a map of Eastwood MetroPark.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please contact the staff lead, Shelby Shaw, at 937-274-3117. Environment and Physical Demands: This position does involve heavy lifting. Hand carts, dollies, and hand tools will be available for volunteer use. Volunteers will be provided with all needed equipment and safety gear on-site. This program 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 will participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more. Volunteers should bring their favorite water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

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 storytime,  gardening, and meaningful exploration of the outdoors! This opportunity will focus on a storytime followed by a related activity that follows the theme of the garden-related story.  Help us share amazing stories with children, exciting them about discoveries they can find in nature, and encouraging them to get outside and explore. 

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 the staff lead with the story, take a portion, or read the whole story. 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.  10/10 -  "Empanadas for Everyone " By Jackie Azúa Kramer.  This book showcases a lyrical and nourishing tale about the importance of food to a community—and the value of community to the experience of cooking—as told through the eyes of a young girl helping her tía. Craft - TBD 11/28 -  "The Corn Chief"  by Karen Whetung.  A story of hard work, perseverance, developing leadership skills, and reaching your goals! With the wizened old chief set to step down, young Linny dreams of being chosen as his replacement. Craft - Corn Husk Dolls
12/12 -  "Winter Sleep " By Sean Taylor.  In this cozy bedtime story, follow a child and his grandma through a winter landscape to explore how the Earth goes to sleep for winter. Spot the sleeping animals as the tale unfolds, then learn about their hibernation habits from the information pages at the end..  Craft - TBD
1/9/2026 -  "Shante Keys and the New Years Peas" By Sean Taylor. In this story, the lighthearted rhyme presents various cultural food customs associated with the holiday. A look at New Year's traditions around the world and a recipe for Hoppin' John are appended.  Craft - New Year's Lucky Items2/13/2026 -  "Little Hearts" By Charles Ghigna.  This book is a gentle introduction to the world of nature for young children, written in rhyming stanzas. It reminds us to take our time and appreciate our surroundings and the beauty of nature.  Craft - Pressed Redbud leaves; and demonstration of heart anatomy3/20/2026 -  "Joy Takes Root" By Gwendolyn Wallace. In this story, a young girl learns about mindfulness and herbal medicine in this soothing intergenerational story about our connection to nature..  Craft - Seed Planting Activity4/10/2026 -  "The Great Labne Trade" By Eman Saleh. In this story, Ahmed is reluctant to pack labne sandwiches for lunch. He didn’t want to stand out. With the help of his mother, he learns to embrace his Arab heritage and learn his first lesson in business.  Craft - TBD

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term and Long-Term. Learn more about our types of service here. Volunteers should have good reading skills, be enthusiastic about finding discoveries in the garden, and enjoy working with children and families.

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands:  This opportunity is indoors.  The market may be cool in the winter and warm in the summer. Volunteers may have light physical duties like standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up and tear down.  The market may be busy with a lot of ambient noise during the program time. This is a family program, and volunteers should enjoy working with kids and families.

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available at the 2nd Street Parking lots. Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 1/2 hour before the program begins for set up and a brief orientation, review of roles and activities, and to gather supplies needed.  Please arrive early to park and check in.   You will meet the staff lead in the Pavilion or dining area.

Dress:  Please dress appropriately for the weather.  Wear your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your volunteer T-shirt.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information. 

 

Do you like behind-the-scenes event prep work? Are you looking for a flexible at-home volunteer opportunity?

 Support the Fall Family Adventure by preparing the supplies for the event's craft stations at home with supplies and instructions provided before the event during this unscheduled volunteer opportunity. Volunteers will pick up supplies and instructions from Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark on September 22 - October 1, Prepare craft supplies at home, and return them no later than October 14th. Their efforts will ensure we have enough supplies for all the youth and families to enjoy during the event. While this may be a behind-the-scenes volunteer activity, you are helping kids and families create a take-home craft and memories together. 

Impact

Program support volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring large-scale programs run smoothly. These volunteers enable the staff to expand their ideas for activities to engage the public.

Tasks  Pick up supplies to prepare craft pieces and instructions between September 22 and October 1 at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, Administration building. Time for pick up is between 9 am - 4 pm Follow instructions to prepare the assigned craft pieces. Craft pieces will include a great deal of repetitive cutting of shapes.  You are not making the craft; you are helping get all the pieces cut for the crafts being made. Contact the staff lead with any questions or concerns during the project. If you cannot complete the craft preparation, please get in touch with the staff lead immediately. Return the completed craft pieces and additional supplies no later than October 14th to Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, Administration Building, between the hours of  9 am - 4 pmEligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.  Additional Notes  Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please pick up supplies between September 22 - October 1 from Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark between the hours of 9 am-4 pm. If you need an alternative pick-up time, please contact the staff lead. Return items to Wegerzyn Gardens Metropark no later than October 14th, Monday-Friday between the hours of 9 am-4 pm.Environment & Physical Demands: This is an unscheduled/flexible volunteer opportunity that can be completed at home. It does involve bending, light lifting, organizing, boxing materials, and a great deal of repetitive cutting. Dress: This is an at-home opportunity, but it can get messy, so please wear clothing that can get dirty/ Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming opportunities with us. 

  

Join us as we present out Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during the Animals of Ohio field trip series! Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff with the presentation, handle the animals, and engage with school groups.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Responsibilities

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up and putting the ambassadors back into their enclosures. Welcome the school group, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Assist staff in the presentation portion of the trip. Handle the animal related to the presentation and answer questions from the children. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility: This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at Eastwood MetroPark.Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

Fall brings cooler weather, seasonal activities, and the celebration of the harvest from the gardens. Adventure Central is excited about the return of its Fall Harvest program, and it is the luminaries that create the festive mood of a celebration.  Many hands make light work, and this popular seasonal event takes teamwork and timing to light all of the luminaries. Volunteers are needed to assist staff with setting out hundreds of milk jug luminaries throughout the grounds in preparation for the Fall Harvest program.  

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: 

Prepare and set out milk jug luminaries, including refilling jugs with sand/dirt as needed.   Assist with any final touches, such as decorating and tidying, before guests arrive.Light milk jug luminaries along the bridge, trail, and path.  Note: Volunteers will use 2 stick lighters and carry 5-10 extra votive candles with them as backup (provided). Volunteers may help guide people to the trail. 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Short-term, Long-term, and Youth volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

This opportunity is for ages 14 and older. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval.

Additional Notes:

Environment and Physical Demands: This is an outdoor activity, and volunteers should expect to do a lot of walking as well as carrying and placing milk jugs. 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, etc. 

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,  Lois Woods, 937-278-2601.

Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their volunteer t-shirt and name badge, and bring a water bottle.

Visit the Adventure Central Training Resources page in our Training Library to learn more about Adventure Central and to volunteer for other opportunities. 

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

Fall brings cooler weather, seasonal activities, and the celebration of the harvest from the gardens. Adventure Central is excited about the return of its Fall Harvest program, and plenty of activities are planned for an evening of fun.  Volunteers will assist with the games and activities, and getting the snacks ready for everyone.  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! Volunteers should enjoy working with youth and families, and be ready to get roped into all sorts of shenanigans!

Impact

Volunteers will build trusting and positive relationships that strengthen values, build lasting life skills, and encourage an eagerness to explore life’s possibilities.  Games are more than having fun and can be a great learning tool for kids and families.  They can help children work on skills such as concentration, strategizing, following directions, and patience.

Tasks Welcome families and assist with sign-in. Assist staff in set-up and clean-up of program materials and equipment Assist in food prep, serving, cleaning up, and organizing the kitchen after mealtimeAssist staff with the evening's activities.Interact with the kids and families - play, joke, chat!Monitor play for safety and harmony Support staff or lead designated activities during the program.

Eligibility

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

This opportunity is for ages 14 and older. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to Respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval.Volunteers will have completed the virtual training 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, 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,  Lois Wood, 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 volunteer t-shirt and name badge, and bring a water bottle.

Visit the Adventure Central Training Resources page in our Training Library to see what training is required for this opportunity.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information on programming volunteer opportunities with us.

 

Calling all helping hands! Add to the beauty of Wegerzyn Gardens with lovely Fall decorations and help get the space ready for all the fun as you help decorate and set up this year's Fall Family Adventure.

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that events and large-scale programs run smoothly.

Tasks  Assist with assembling and setting up seasonal decorations in the garden.  Assist with setting up tables, chairs, and event supplies.  EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below) and/or Groups.  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. 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.  Additional Notes  Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available in the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark visitor lot. 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 at the last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052.Environment & Physical Demands: Physical duties include standing, walking, and moderate to heavy lifting to help set up and tear down the event. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Be a part of the Welcome Team at this year's Fall Family Adventure! Whether coming or going, visitors appreciate when a friendly, smiling face is there to greet them or say farewell. As a volunteer in this role, you are the first and last(ing) impression of a successful event at Five Rivers MetroParks!  

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that events and large-scale programs run smoothly.

Tasks  Welcome participants as they arrive and thank them for attending as they leave. Check off registered attendants and keep a tally of registered and walk-in participants. Provide event information and handouts to participants. Answer questions from participants and assist with wayfinding to the best of your ability. Assist with cleaning up and tearing down the welcome table at the end of the event.  EligibilityThis 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: Parking is available in the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark visitor lot. 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 at the last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052.Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up and tear down booth materials. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more information on serving as a Special Events volunteer.

Share some "scary" creatures with participants of all ages at this year's Fall Family Adventure! Conservation Leader volunteers are needed to help participants learn more about these amazing creatures and perhaps realize they are not so scary after all.

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, and safety into our programs for all interested in learning. Youth and family volunteers build leadership skills, learn how to mentor others, serve as a naturalist for their peers, and as a family play an important role in helping protect and promote our natural world!

Tasks Assist with station setup. Assist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program. Share practical experience and information as prompted. Help distribute program materials and supplies as needed. Engage shy participants and assist in keeping families excited.  Showcase various supplies or specimens.Eligibility

This is a Long-Term Volunteer Opportunity open to Conservation Leaders only. Learn more about our types of service here.  

Additional Notes  Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available at the event. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in at the front of the event, and connecting with staff.  Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up and tear down booth materials. Dress: 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 on-site.   Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.

Be a part of this year's Fall Family Adventure! A sweet treat makes everything better! Help make this event a little sweeter and enjoy those smiling faces as you help serve cookies, apple juice, water, and hot chocolate at this year's event. 

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that events and large-scale programs run smoothly.

Tasks  Help set up, stock, and serve at the refreshment station. We will be serving cookies, apple juice, water, and hot chocolate at this year's event.  Welcome participants as they arrive and thank them for attending. Serve as a resource for questions and additional event support as needed. Assist with station tear-down at the end of the event. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), and/or Groups.  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. 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. Additional NotesParking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available in the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark visitor lot. 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 at the last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052.Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up and tear down. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in. Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more information on serving as a Special Events volunteer.

Be the helping hands behind the scenes that bring this event together! Help us ensure this year's Fall Family Adventure is a success by supporting our entertainers, staff, and other volunteers.

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that events and large-scale programs run smoothly.

Tasks  Check in with the staff leads for an overview of the event, assessment of needs, and task instruction.  Assist with setup, teardown, or station preparation as needed. Walk around the event welcoming participants, providing event information, and checking in with staff, volunteers, and performers. Help keep activity lines short by directing participants to other activities when one is crowded. Support staff and volunteers by answering questions when able or directing questions or concerns to the staff lead, retrieving supplies, and providing quick breaks as needed. Provide additional support to activity stations that are busy and fill in for missing volunteers where needed. Eligibility
This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term and Short-Term, Public, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below.  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.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.  Additional Notes  Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available in the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark visitor lot. 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 at the last minute or are running late, please call staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052.Environment & Physical Demands: ​​Light physical duties include standing, walking, and light lifting to help set up and tear down booth materials. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more information on serving as a Special Events volunteer.

 

 

Do artistic, creative, and cheerful describe you? Help create that Fall magic at this year's Fall Family Adventure as a Program Support volunteer! Face painting is an amazing colorful opportunity that creates memorable experiences for children and adults. Face painting adds a new level of fun and excitement to any event! It encourages creativity and imagination in children and helps engage shy children in the fun.
Volunteers will paint the faces of kids and adults,  using one of three designs. Face paint brushes and towels will be provided.

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, safety, and FUN into our programs for all interested in learning!  Volunteers help people make a stronger connection to nature by making it easy to experience the outdoors in fun activities.

Tasks Arrive and check in with your Staff Lead to review your activity assignment and prepare supplies. This program runs from 4 pm-7 pm. Volunteers will assist with setting up and closing their activity stations.Get yourself and your station organizedTest the paint on the back of your hand to make sure you have a nice, thick consistency. Draw a few practice designs to get ready for your first guestIntroduce the activity to participants and ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate. Provide a welcoming, safe, positive experience for all participants.SMILE!  It can help you and your guest relax and have fun/Review these tips for success:Nerves can make your hands shake.  Tip: rest the pinkie finger of your working hand on the forehead of your subject as you paint.Most kids will not be able to sit as still as a statue while you paint them. Tip:  Place your non-painting hand on the top of the child’s head. It calms them and gives you a little warning if they move their head. As soon as you feel their head moving, take your brush off their face.Messy area and paints. Tip: Spritz your sponge or dip your brush in clean water first. It will keep your paints drier and prevent dripping.  Use a towel to clean up after each guest.Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here to view the map of Wegerzyn Gardens. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot in front of the Administrative building and meet with the staff lead at Skeeter's Garden. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This is an outdoor activity, and you may get dirty.  This opportunity involves working with paint on kids and families. Physical duties include standing, walking, and lifting.   Dress: Please wear closed-toe shoes, your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Reusable volunteer vests will be provided for volunteers on-site.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.  

At the heart of every youth and family event is a memorable activity that creates a DIY themed memento. Have that creative spirit?  Love working with crayons, construction paper and glue? Help create the Fall magic at this year's Fall Family Adventure as a Program Support volunteer!  Have you ever wondered why arts and crafts are so important for child development? For children aged 3 – 8 experts say it is the most important way to help them grow and develop.  Volunteers will be assisting children and their families with craft activities.  These are fun activities, and they can give kids a sense of achievement and build confidence.

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, safety, and FUN into our programs for all interested in learning! When kids use their fingers to manipulate art materials they are developing their fine motor skills, their coordination skills improve as they learn to use both hands at the same time. When kids make art or crafts they get to talk about their work which develops their communication skills.  Kids get to learn about and recognize different shapes, count and sort out their art supplies, and even measure out lengths and sizes of art materials. Volunteers who support craft opportunities also foster mental growth in children by providing opportunities for trying out new ideas, new ways of thinking, and problem-solving.

Tasks Arrive and check in with your Staff Lead to review your activity assignment and prepare supplies. This program runs from 4 pm-7 pm. Volunteers will assist with setting up and closing their activity stations.Get yourself and your station organizedReview the three craft activities and ensure supplies are ready and spaced for participationThe Owl— Supplies will be ready, and simple steps for families to create their hanging owl. Check out the video to see the cute craft: The Owl Spider Ring—Some rings will be prepared ahead of time, but volunteers will work with families to create pipe cleaner rings, adding googly eyes to them.  Check out the video to see this cute craft:  Spider RingThe Fox—Simple directions: the fox is made from a paper tube and two cupcake papers– Participants will color and attach the cupcake papers, then use stickers to make a fox face. Introduce the activity to participants and ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate. Provide a welcoming, safe, positive experience for all participants.SMILE!  It can help you and your guests relax and have fun!Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here to view the map of Wegerzyn Gardens. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot in front of the Administrative building and meet with the staff lead at Skeeter's Garden. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This is an outdoor activity, and you may get dirty.  This opportunity involves working with paint and glue.  Volunteers must enjoy working with kids and families. Physical duties include standing, walking, and lifting.   Dress: Please wear closed-toe shoes, your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Reusable volunteer vests will be provided for volunteers on-site.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.  

  

Help create the Fall magic at this year's Fall Family Adventure as a Program Support volunteer!   The game areas are where fun and laughter can be heard all through the park.  Volunteers will enjoy these activities just as much as the families.  Creativity and playfulness are good traits to have when volunteering in this area

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, safety, and FUN into our programs for all interested in learning!  Games are more than having fun, and can be a great learning tool for kids and families.  They can help children work on skills such as concentration, strategizing, following directions, and patience.

Tasks Arrive and check in with your Staff Lead to review your activity assignment and prepare supplies. This program runs from 4 pm-7 pm. Volunteers will assist with setting up and closing their activity stations..Get yourself and your station organizedReview the game activities and ensure supplies are ready and spaced for participation. Pumpkin bean bag (garden green)—help kids select three bean bags and let them try to toss them through the eyes, nose, or mouth of our cut-out jack o lantern face. · Pumpkin ring toss (garden green)—line up six pumpkins into two rows of three with one-foot space between each pumpkin. Each contestant will have a hula hoop to toss and see if they can make the hoop land around one of the pumpkins in the row they are facing. Two can play at the same time. Dress a scarecrow (garden green)—Three scarecrow forms will be provided along with bags of clothes. Let each participant dress the scarecrow. When the person leaves, undress the scarecrows for the next participant. Spider Web Walk activity host (Skeeter's garden) - Kids will try to stay on the spider web while picking up strategically placed spiders. Check out this link to see an example of this game: Spider Web WalkPumpkin Maze activity host (picnic area near prairie)- kids will try to find their way out of the maze.Leaf Jumping pools (Skeeter's garden)- keep pools filled with leaves and invite guests to jump in and play.Owl Scavenger Hunt (Skeeter's garden) - ask kids if they can find all of the owls hung in the trees of the Children’s Discovery Garden.Introduce the activity to participants and ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate. Provide a welcoming, safe, positive experience for all participants.SMILE!  It can help you and your guests relax and have fun!Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here to view the map of Wegerzyn Gardens. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot in front of the Administrative building and meet with the staff lead at Skeeter's Garden. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.  Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This is an outdoor activity, and you may get dirty.  This opportunity involves working with paint and glue.  Volunteers must enjoy working with kids and families. Physical duties include standing, walking, and lifting.   Dress: Please wear closed-toe shoes, your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Reusable volunteer vests will be provided for volunteers on-site.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities.  

 

At the heart of every youth and family event is a memorable activity! And at MetroParks, we enjoy talking, sharing, and engaging visitors with nature.  Volunteers are an essential part of MetroParks helping individuals and families make a stronger connection to nature.  Through programs and events,  we offer the chance to learn and discover things about our natural world, as well as, help address some of the fears and barriers many may have.  Help create the Fall magic at this year's Fall Family Adventure as a Program Support volunteer! 

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, safety, and FUN into our programs for all interested in learning! Volunteers support families to engage with nature through their senses, be more comfortable with our natural surroundings, and encourage inquisitiveness about nature.

Tasks Arrive and check in with your Staff Lead to review your activity assignment and prepare supplies. This program runs from 4 pm-7 pm. Volunteers will assist with setting up and closing their activity stations..Get yourself and your station organizedReview the four Nature Knowledge activities, the details of the fun facts to share, and how to make this a fun, engaging station.   If I were an owl—go over a list of things owls do that kids cannot as well as showing owl skull, scat, and wings. If I were a squirrel— what do squirrels do that helps them survive the winter? How do they find all they have buried?All about trees - How leaves change in fall? What determines when leaves will fall?  How do trees survive the winter?Nature's Natural Antifreeze - There are strategies plants and animals use to help them survive the winter.  Can you name them, and how they work?Introduce the activity to participants and ensure everyone has an opportunity to participate. Provide a welcoming, safe, positive experience for all participants.SMILE!  It can help you and your guests relax and have fun!Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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. If you are a Conservation Leaders family, contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to get registered. Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here to view the map of Wegerzyn Gardens. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot in front of the Administrative building and check in at the front of the building entrance.  You will then be directed to your location and staff lead to get your station ready for visitors. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This is an outdoor activity, and you may get dirty.  This opportunity involves working with various materials to help families learn more about nature.  Volunteers must enjoy working with kids and families. Physical duties include standing, walking, and lifting.   Dress: Please wear closed-toe shoes, your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Reusable volunteer vests will be provided for volunteers on-site. 

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.  

Join us as we share our Wildlife Ambassadors at our booth during Fall Family Adventure! Qualified Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers are needed to support staff, handle the animals, and engage with community members at the event booth.

Impact

Help us share our conservation message with the next generation at scheduled outreach opportunities in the community! Five Rivers MetroParks Wildlife Ambassadors assist our education team in sharing our conservation message with community members of all ages at a variety of programs, events, and outreach opportunities year-round.

Tasks

Volunteers like YOU can share our conservation mission and the importance of healthy habitat for animals like them and people like us to a variety of audiences throughout our community.

Meet the staff at the location 15 minutes prior to the program and assist with set-up. At end of the program assist with clean-up of wildlife ambassador space and packaging of the wildlife ambassadors. Welcome guests, introduce yourself and the wildlife ambassadors. Share program talking points and answer common questions with information from the Wildlife Ambassador Manual providing excellent customer service to the public. Support staff or lead designated activities during the program. Follow all safety procedures and ensures the safety of all participants. Alert staff when and if any issues arise.

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for individual Long-Term volunteers who are 14 and older who have qualified as Wildlife Ambassador Animal Care volunteers. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Additional Notes

Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers can expect bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects 10 lbs. or more, and standing for long periods. Parking & Meeting Instructions: This outreach opportunity takes place at Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark.Dress: Volunteers should wear their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel.

Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.  

At the heart of every youth and family event are unique experiences that spark wonder and interest for chilren. If you’ve ever been curious about origami, we have a fantastic opportunity for you! You can join us at this year’s Fall Family Adventure, where we’ll showcase a delightful origami owl. We are seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help our families make these charming owls. 

Origami is a beautiful Japanese art form that transforms a simple square sheet of paper into intricate designs solely through folding—no glue or scissors needed! While the owl is a straightforward design, it’s perfect for our autumn event.

You can come learn and practice with us as we create adorable owls for the owl tree, or just join us for the event. There is fun to be had helping show others how much fun you can have with a simple piece of paper.  Help us make this event memorable! 

Impact

Volunteers help build access, comfort, convenience, safety, and FUN into our programs for all interested in learning! 

Tasks Arrive and check in with your Staff Lead to review videos and prepare supplies. Volunteers will learn how to make and create origami owls simultaneously.Review these videos as examples of the possible owls that will be made. Easy Origami OwlOrigami Owl version 2Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, and Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below).  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.Additional Notes: Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here to view the map of Wegerzyn Gardens. Volunteers should park in the main parking lot in front of the Administrative building and meet inside the building.  Please plan to arrive early to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead.  Cancelation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052. Environment & Physical Demands: ​​This is an indoor activity.  This opportunity involves working with paper and doing multiple folds to create the owl.  Dress: Please wear your volunteer name badge, and if you have one, your green or blue volunteer T-shirt. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position for more information on Programming volunteer opportunities with us.  

Calling all helping hands!  Flex your muscles and assist staff behind the scenes as you help tear down this year's Fall Family Adventure.

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that events and large-scale programs run smoothly.

Tasks  Assist with breaking down and putting away seasonal decorations in the garden.  Assist with breaking down and putting away tables, chairs, event supplies, and displays.  EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below) and/or Groups.  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. 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.  Additional Notes  Parking & Meeting Instructions: Parking is available in the Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark visitor lot. Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before your shift to allow for parking, checking in, and connecting with the staff lead. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Betty Hoevel, at 937-276-7052.Environment & Physical Demands: Physical duties include standing, walking, and moderate to heavy lifting to help set up and tear down the event. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. If you have one, please wear your green or blue volunteer shirt. Reusable volunteer vests and event nametags will be provided for you onsite at volunteer check-in.Other: Gator Qualification Preferred 

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Special Event Volunteer Position Description for more information on serving as a Special Events volunteer.

  

 

 

 

Aullwood Garden MetroPark offers a collection of wildflowers, beautiful gardens, and natural areas for visitors to enjoy. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

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 assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

assisting with leaf collecting for our mulch piles at the Historic Aullwood Garden property as well as planting a tree or two. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and/or Groups.  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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Aullwood Garden MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the dam parking lot, 955 Aullwood Rd, Dayton, OH 45414, where a staff lead will be waiting to greet you. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call project staff lead, Beth Langford, at 937-718-5658. 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 bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and walking on potentially uneven terrain. 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 Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

Hills & Dales MetroPar offers a historical urban forest that has been a natural refuge for Daytonians since 1907. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Cutting and removing invasive honeysuckle removal off the trails near Old Barn Camp. Cutting will consist of hand saws and loppers.  Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and/or Groups. 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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Hills & Dales MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet staff at Old Barn Camp (2800 Oak Knoll Rd., Kettering, OH 45409). Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call staff lead Matthew Milks at 937-546-4802. 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 bending, kneeling, pulling, lifting, cutting, hiking on potentially uneven muddy terrain, and sawing, lifting, and dragging objects 15lbs or more. Volunteers will be using folding saws and pruners. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes, and have your favorite work gloves, water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.  Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Cox Arboretum MetroPark invites visitors to connect with nature and discover and rest in the serenity and majesty of trees and shrubs thoughtfully arranged to capture the imagination. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

removing invasive tree species, using loppers, from the trails at Cox Arboretum. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Adults, Youth, and Groups.  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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Cox Arboretum. Volunteers should park in the main lot in front of the visitor center at 6733 N Springboro Pike. Follow the paved path to the left of the visitor center, leading you around to the front of the Greenhouse. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call staff lead Uriah Langmeyer, at 937-275-7275. 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.). Volunteers can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, walking on potentially uneven terrain, and lifting/dragging objects of 15 lbs or more. Volunteers can also expect a 5 -10 minute hike to the worksite.  Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Cox Arboretum MetroPark is a special place for visitors to approach, enter, and connect with nature. Come look at, discover, and rest in the serenity and majesty of trees and shrubs thoughtfully arranged to capture the imagination. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

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. 

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

mulching the beds around Cox Arboretum MetroPark. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, Family, and/or Groups. Learn more about our types of service 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. 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 in the main lot in front of the visitor center at 6733 N Springboro Pike. Follow the paved path to the left of the visitor center, leading you around to the front of the Resource Center/Library. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call project staff lead, Jacob Cradic at 937-245-0219. 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 bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, walking on potentially uneven terrain, and lifting. 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. 

Just a few miles north of RiverScape, where the Stillwater River flows into the Great Miami, is an urban oasis with a long Dayton history: Island MetroPark. Your participation in an Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

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.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Litter pick-up around the park and shelters using pickers and buckets. Loading small branches and limbs into the back of a truck to be hauled away. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), Family, and/or Groups.  Learn more about our types of service 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.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 Island MetroPark. Volunteers should park at 101 E. Helena St. Dayton, Ohio 45404, and meet staff near the map kiosk. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call project staff lead Ramon Watson at (513)435-1525. 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.). Volunteers can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, walking on potentially uneven or muddy terrain, and lifting/dragging objects 10 lbs or more.  Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

The city of Englewood serves as the western boundary for a large portion of Englewood MetroPark. This nature-filled park, one of the largest in the region, has been part of the Englewood community for more than 50 years. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing various natural area management plans. 

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

We will be removing willows from the edge of a wetland to restore viewsheds from the park road. Loppers and hand saw work and dragging the willows up to the road for removal will be the primary actions. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), and/or Groups.  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.Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Englewood MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Englewood MetroPark North Park entrance, located at 500 Old Springfield Rd., Vandalia, OH 45377. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead at Dan Spaugy at 937-271-1370.
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, walking, reaching, dragging, and lifting objects of 15lbs or more.  table {mso-displayed-decimal-separator:"\."; mso-displayed-thousand-separator:"\,";} tr {mso-height-source:auto;} col {mso-width-source:auto;} td {padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; mso-ignore:padding; color:black; font-size:11.0pt; font-weight:400; font-style:normal; text-decoration:none; font-family:Calibri, sans-serif; mso-font-charset:0; text-align:general; vertical-align:bottom; border:none; white-space:nowrap; mso-rotate:0;} .xl88 {font-family:"Neutraface Text Book", monospace; mso-font-charset:0; border:.5pt solid windowtext; background:#DDEBF7; mso-pattern:black none;}        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. ​We will be working in a prairie - Proper footwear will be necessary. Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

 

Once farmland and woodlots, more than 50 years of natural succession have created rich areas of forests, thickets, meadows, and prairies to explore at Carriage Hill. Farm life in the 1880s comes alive at the historical farm, complete with period farm animals. There are also acres of peaceful beauty to enjoy on foot or horseback. The park has been a favorite place for families to spend quality time together for generations. Come and join us for a spell. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

improving and maintaining a field replanted in native trees. These trees are still growing and need some assistance with tree tube removal and the introduction of capsaicin tablets to help prevent animal browsing. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and Groups. 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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Visitor Center: 7800 E. Shull Rd., Dayton, OH 45424, and look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the project staff lead, Nick Wheeler, at (937) 508 9833. 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.). We will be working in recently mowed area but be prepared for tall grass work. Volunteers can expect to participate in routine bending, kneeling, pulling, lifting, and cutting. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

More than 50 years ago, a group of citizens realized suburban development was flying at a fast clip, but the Dayton region had no process to preserve open space to protect water, provide habitat for wildlife, and support human health and recreation. They worked to create a park district that today is your Five Rivers MetroParks.  Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land- 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans. Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Taskshelp conservation staff protect newly planted oaks and hickory trees by building and installing tree cages in a reforestation area.Eligibility
This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and/or Groups. 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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions:  Volunteers should park 146 Heathcliff Rd, Dayton, OH 45415. Please park around the loop driveway. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage.Cancelation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call project staff lead, Megan Rude at 937-207-1527.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.). Volunteers can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, walking on potentially uneven or muddy terrain, and lifting/dragging objects 10 lbs or more. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Possum Creek MetroPark offers a blend of nature, history, and community for adults and children alike. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Horticulture at Five Rivers MetroParks creates, maintains, and preserves green space and habitats for pollinators and native plants and 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 assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Help staff clean up the Demonstration Garden in preparation for the Winter season by weeding, cleaning up debris in the garden beds, and organizing and cleaning in the garden shed. EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), or Groups.  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. Additional Notes Parking and Meeting Instructions: 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. Please note: If you search 'Possum Creek Farm' in Google, it may take you to an old entrance to the farm off Shank Road. Be sure to enter the park using the main entrance off Frytown Road. table {mso-displayed-decimal-separator:"\."; mso-displayed-thousand-separator:"\,";} tr {mso-height-source:auto;} col {mso-width-source:auto;} td {padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; mso-ignore:padding; color:black; font-size:11.0pt; font-weight:400; font-style:normal; text-decoration:none; font-family:Calibri, sans-serif; mso-font-charset:0; text-align:general; vertical-align:bottom; border:none; white-space:nowrap; mso-rotate:0;} .xl88 {font-family:"Neutraface Text Book", monospace; mso-font-charset:0; border:.5pt solid windowtext; background:#DDEBF7; mso-pattern:black none;}             Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Jonathan Zebrowski, at 937-274-3185. Environment & Physical Demands: Volunteers will need to be able to lift 10-25 lbs, bend, kneel, dig, and pull. Volunteers may be exposed to bees, hay, and farm animals. Please prepare to bring the materials necessary to keep yourself safe in case of possible exposure. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

 

RiverScape MetroPark is a place that not only preserves glimpses of the city’s origins but one that embraces modern innovation and evolves with the needs of the vibrant and connected neighborhoods that surround it. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

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.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Helping the horticulture team at Riverscape with light weeding and the spreading of mulch throughout the garden beds.EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), and/or Groups.  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.Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Riverscape MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the Five Rivers MetroPark Main Office parking lot (409 East Monument Avenue, Dayton, OH 45402) or along E. Monument or S. Patterson, and meet the staff at Riverscape MetroPark under the Pavilion canopy (237 E Monument Ave, Dayton, OH 45402). Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PARKING PASS

Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call staff lead Amy Kennedy at (937) 789-1085.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.). Volunteers should expect to be bending, kneeling, and pushing wheelbarrows of mulch weighing around 25-30 lbs., and lifting buckets of debris weighing up to 15 lbs. Volunteers will be working on their hands and knees for the majority of their shift.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 the Gardening Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

table {mso-displayed-decimal-separator:"\."; mso-displayed-thousand-separator:"\,";} tr {mso-height-source:auto;} col {mso-width-source:auto;} td {padding-top:1px; padding-right:1px; padding-left:1px; mso-ignore:padding; color:black; font-size:11.0pt; font-weight:400; font-style:normal; text-decoration:none; font-family:Calibri, sans-serif; mso-font-charset:0; text-align:general; vertical-align:bottom; border:none; white-space:nowrap; mso-rotate:0;} .xl103 {font-family:"Neutraface Text Book", monospace; mso-font-charset:0; border:.5pt solid windowtext; background:#DDEBF7; mso-pattern:black none; white-space:normal;}            

Although much of Sugarcreek's 618 acres were once farmland, MetroParks' land management practices and natural processes have resulted in a variety of habitats. These habitats support diverse wildlife that can be discovered as you hike, horseback ride, run the trails, exercise you pets, or enjoy a leisurely picnic. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. 

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Assist staff with dragging cut honeysuckle to the wood chipper for staff to process. Volunteers may also assist staff with trimming and clearing designated areas with hand tools. Note: Volunteers will not operate chainsaws! EligibilityThis opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), and/or Groups.  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. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Sugarcreek MetroPark. Volunteers should park at the main parking lot: 4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook, OH 45305. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift last minute or are running late, please call the staff lead, Matt Stevens, at 513-200-7271.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 routine bending, kneeling, lifting, dragging, and pulling cut materials of 15lbs or greater.   Dress: Please be ready to work with hand saws, loppers, and pruners to cut invasive plants along the trail corridors and into the forested areas. Volunteers should wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and have their favorite work gloves, eye protection, a water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray. Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

 

The area that is now Taylorsville MetroPark was once one of the busiest crossroads in the country, the meeting place of major transportation arteries — the Old National Road, the Great Miami River, the Miami-Erie Canal, and railroads. Today, the area serves as the crossroads of bike trails, hiking trails, and river recreation. The park is a gateway to new outdoor experiences, such as running, biking, hiking, fishing, and paddling. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

cutting and removing invasive species in the West area of Taylorsville MetroPark. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and Groups.  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.  Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Taylorsville MetroPark. Volunteers should meet in the parking lot at Taylorsville Reservable Shelter Area: 8400 Brown School Rd., Vandalia, OH 45377. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call project staff lead, Melissa Alt, at 419-307-8166. 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.). Volunteers can expect to participate in bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, walking on potentially uneven terrain, and lifting objects of 15 lbs or more. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Enjoy the best wilderness experience in the region. Part of the Twin Valley Conservation Corridor, Twin Creek MetroPark offers mature forests within the breathtaking ravines — an ideal spot for hiking, backpacking, and camping. Get the wild natural beauty of a National Park, just 20 minutes south of Dayton. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.

Impact

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.

Tasks

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Picking up litter along Morningside Road, Lake George, and the trailhead.Eligibility
This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth, and/or Groups. 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.  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 NotesParking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Twin Creek MetroPark. Volunteers should park at Twin Creek MetroPark, Camp Hook, located at 8539 Morningstar Rd., Franklin, OH 45005. Park on the left side of the parking lot. Look for volunteer signage and the MetroParks truck. Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call the Volunteer Coordinator, Allie Zimmerman, at (937) 274-3176. 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 walking, bending, kneeling, pulling, and reaching.  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! Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Park Maintenance Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

The Upper Twin Conservation Area contains a unique, diverse mix of high-quality habitats. Located in the Twin Valley corridor upstream from Germantown and Twin Creek MetroParks, this approximately 580-acre area does not have public facilities or a public parking lot, so this is a great opportunity to explore an area of undeveloped natural beauty! As with all of our parks, however, we still have much more to do! Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

Protecting open space and natural areas is a priority for Five Rivers MetroParks, which protects nearly 16,000 acres of land — 90 percent of it in its natural state. Conservation volunteers are a part of our regional conservation story by assisting in implementing a variety of natural area management plans.

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Assist conservation staff in establishing an American Chestnut population by planting trees, setting up tree skirts and protective posts, and, if time allows, helping plant additional herbaceous and shrub species.Eligibility  This opportunity is open to the following types of volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, and/or Groups. 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.  Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers should park and meet the staff at the Upper Twin Conservation Area. Please use the following GPS coordinates to locate the entrance drive: (39.6493841, -84.4558173). Driveway is on the north side of Baden Road, 0.13miles west of the intersection of Baden Road & Anthony Road in Farmersville. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage. Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call Nicole Freshour at 567-249-7428.
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.). There will be a 10-minute (approx. 0.3-mile) hike to the planting site and again to get back to the parking area. No public restroom on site (closest facility is a 1.75-mile drive, which is a porta-john at the sledding hill at Boomershine and Manning Roads at Germantown MetroPark. The Twin Valley Welcome Center is just up the road from there).  Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, long sleeves, 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 Conservation Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Wegerzyn Gardens MetroParks actively promotes landscaping with native plants in balance with traditional garden selections to inspire visitors. Your participation in a Make a Difference Day volunteer service project allows MetroParks to continue its mission to protect the region's natural heritage and provide outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature.  

Impact

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. 

Tasks  

Under the supervision of the assigned staff, volunteers will support and assist with the following:

Help with cutting back perennial plants, leaf collection, mulching, or bulb planting (if temperatures permit).Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-Term, Short-Term, Public Service, Youth (ages 14-17 - See specific age requirements below), or Groups.  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.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 kiosk in front of the main building. Look for the 'Volunteer Event' signage.Cancellation: If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please call 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.