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 at the 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.

a { text-decoration: none; color: #464feb; } tr th, tr td { border: 1px solid #e6e6e6; } tr th { background-color: #f5f5f5; }

Do you LOVE being around horses and don't mind getting your hands a little dirty? Or maybe you're just looking for a way to give back while getting in a great workout? Consider joining our team of Carriage Hill Riding Center Volunteers as a Barn Aide!

Barn aide volunteers are essential to providing daily care for the horses and maintaining the equestrian facility where these beloved animals live, work, and play. This is an opportunity to make a big difference at every volunteer shift. If you're looking to make an ongoing commitment to service of 8 shifts or more per year that makes a real impact, consider joining us!

Note: All new Riding Center volunteers begin as Barn Aides. These volunteers can participate in additional training to support a variety of our equestrian programming opportunities.

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: Long-Term and Youth volunteers, ages 14 and up, who have completed the required prerequisite training and are able to make an ongoing commitment to service at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.  Short term volunteers willing to commit 8 shifts or more may be considered.  

Learn more about becoming a MetroParks volunteer and our volunteer service types here. GET STARTED: Not currently in Barn Aide training, but would like to get started? Follow this link to begin virtual training today. Additional Notes Commitment: This opportunity requires an ongoing commitment of at least 8 volunteer shifts per year.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. Dress: Please dress for the weather and working in a barn environment. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes or work boots and clothes with long pants you do not mind getting dirty. No Steel Toe boots. Volunteers should wear their volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if available. Note: Name badges are mailed out every 2 weeks for newly onboarded volunteers. If you have not received yours within this timeline, contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org. Volunteer apparel is distributed through our VIP program beginning at 25 hours. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Animal Care Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.  

**Note: This opportunity is only open for volunteers in training to be qualified Barn Aides at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. **

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. Now that you have completed your virtual and scheduled in-person training, you are ready to shadow qualified volunteers and Carriage Hill Riding Center staff to practice the skills needed to become a qualified Barn Aide volunteer.  

You'll work alongside qualified volunteers and staff at scheduled shadow experience shifts to practice these tasks until you are able to check off and begin completing these tasks more independently as a qualified barn aide volunteer.

Plus, once you qualify as a Barn Aide volunteer by completing your check off, you become eligible to participate in additional training to support a variety of equestrian 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: Long-Term and Youth volunteers, ages 14 and up, who have completed the required prerequisite training and are able to make an ongoing commitment to service at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.  Short term volunteers willing to commit 8 shifts or more may be considered.

 Learn more about becoming a MetroParks volunteer and our volunteer service types here. 

GET STARTED: Not currently in Barn Aide training, but would like to get started? Follow this link to begin virtual training today.

Additional Notes Commitment: This opportunity requires an ongoing commitment to service of at least 8 volunteer shifts per year.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. Dress:  Please dress for the weather and working in a barn environment. Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes or work boots and clothes with long pants you do not mind getting dirty. No Steel Toe boots.Volunteers should wear their volunteer name badge and volunteer apparel if available. Note: Name badges are mailed out every 2 weeks for newly onboarded volunteers. If you have not received yours within this timeline, contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org. Volunteer apparel is distributed through our VIP program beginning at 25 hours. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Animal Care 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 the following volunteers: 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 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.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. 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 for more information on programming opportunities.  

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? Join us at MetroParks as we breathe new life into fiber arts and textile skills! We're seeking enthusiastic volunteers to help us create, maintain, and repair essential items at our historic farm and other MetroParks facilities. This is your chance to put your expertise to good use while making a positive impact in the community. If you have experience in any textile craft, we invite you to share your skills with us. Don’t worry if you're still learning—there will be plenty of opportunities to grow your abilities alongside fellow enthusiasts during our workdays.

Each week will bring new and exciting projects as we build a vibrant community of textile volunteers. We’ll conduct a skills assessment at the start of each project to tailor opportunities to everyone’s strengths and interests. Together, we can preserve and celebrate these invaluable arts! Join us in making a difference, and let’s create something beautiful together!

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 kids' 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 about the newer tools. Support new volunteers in gaining skills.  Eligibility

This opportunity is open to The following volunteers: Short-term and Long-Term who are 16 years or older, and who have completed the textile qualification. 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please park and walk to the visitor center. Knock on the entrance door if you are arriving a little late 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.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. 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 for more information on skilled trade 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. 

Thank you for volunteering! 

   

Historic Blacksmiths are Historic Interpreter volunteers who train and receive qualification through Five Rivers MetroParks' as an historic blacksmith. Volunteers acting as program assistants are current Historic Blacksmiths who have volunteered for at least 5 years in the Blacksmith shop, and have assisted in the training and mentoring of new volunteers.  The classes are to build knowledge, start some skills, and encourage volunteerism at the Historic Farm.   

Volunteers for this opportunity will be supporting the staff during a public program.  It DOES NOT REQUIRE PERIOD APPAREL! 

Impact

The individuals who volunteer their time and talents in the Blacksmith Shop help make it possible for others to experience these 19th Century skills that are still relevant today, create interest in these skills, enhance a more personalized experience in a program, and allow us to support the historic farm. Volunteers allow the interpretive teams to help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm.   

Tasks Assist with set up and prep for the classGreet and welcome participants to class and get them signed in. Volunteers will ​​support the instructor and students during the information and practical portion of the class. Support and assist staff or participants with hammering, operating blower, and techniques used in blacksmithing .Support and assist participants to follow safety precautions, and alert staff with students needed additional assistance.Assist staff lead in creating a better learning environment for this interactive opportunity, and give participants the encouragement needed to do a new skill. Assist with clean-up of the program. Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long-term volunteers who have qualified as a historic blacksmith for a minimum of 5 years. Learn more about our types of service here. 

Learn more about becoming a Historic Blacksmith from our virtual training page: Skilled Trade - Historic Blacksmith Additional Notes

Parking & Meeting Instructions: Please park in the historic farm parking lot and walk to the Blacksmith Shop.  Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers should arrive a little early to allow for parking and getting to class location.  Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information. 

Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place outdoors in the Blacksmith Shop. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 20 lbs or more. Blacksmith volunteers will be hammering hot metal for periods of time to demonstrate various techniques.  There will be smoke, fire, hot objects, and tools that require you to be careful and work safely in a small space.

Dress: Volunteers do not need to wear period apparel. Volunteers should dress for the weather, and wear their MetroParks name badge.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Skilled Trades and Programming Volunteer Position for more information on programming and skilled trades 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. 

Thank you for volunteering! 

This opportunity is perfect for volunteers who enjoy the chilly days of winter and are looking for a unique experience that many people have never encountered. Volunteers will remain active while assisting the staff in the ice harvesting program and helping to keep everyone warm by the fire pit. Activities such as ice cutting and ice storage will showcase the practices of life on an 1800s farm. This distinctive and weather-dependent experience provides valuable insight into food preservation during that time period.

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

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

Greet and welcome visitors to the historic farm.Assist the staff in harvesting the ice and loading it onto the wagon for transport.  Assist staff in unloading the ice into the storage building.Maintain and monitor the fire pit.Monior and maintain the fire inwoodshop stove. Engage visitors in the activities when and where possible and safe to do so. Assist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program.  Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  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 and outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 20 lbs or more.  This program is weather-dependent and the date may change to accommodate the ice being thick enough to cut.  Notices will be sent to everyone if there is a date change. Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Cedar Lake Shelter. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 15 minutes before the beginning of the program to park and meet the staff lead. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, review specific stations, and provide other important information.  Dress: Period apparel is NOT required. Volunteers should wear their name badges, dress for the weather, and volunteer vests will be provided upon arrival.

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

 Interested in becoming a Historic Interpreter? Visit the Historic Interpreter page in our Training Library to see what training is required to become part of the Historic Interpreter team at the Historic Farm. 

Join our programming team for a series of canning classes designed to teach participants how to preserve fruits and vegetables affordably and efficiently. The timeless technique of hot water bath canning was used in the 19th century for preserving jams, jellies, syrups, and pickled items. Each week, we will utilize both period recipes and their modern equivalents, offering a variety of recipes. Our program support volunteers are there to support both staff and participants, ensuring everyone learns the essential skills needed to safely create beautifully sealed jars of goodness to take home. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with others, learn a valuable skill, and enjoy delicious homemade preserves!

Program Support Volunteers are welcome and can participate in various entry-level opportunities to support our programs—typically, no expert knowledge is required. However, volunteers who support the cookery programs should have some culinary experience.

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 to the program.Gather and distribute supplies and materials as needed.Assist 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 indoors. 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: No Period Apparel Required! Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge, and a volunteer vest will be available upon arrival. 

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 enjoy customer service and long drives? Experience the changing seasons as you drive a designated route through the parks delivering mail to park staff. Courier volunteers start at the MetroParks Main Office to gather mail, then drive a MetroParks vehicle between park offices delivering packages, mail, and other items.

NORTH PARKS ROUTE: 8:30 - 11:30am

Eastwood/Huffman Carriage Hill Taylorsville Englewood/Aullwood Garden Wegerzyn Gardens Central

SOUTH PARKS ROUTE: 1:00 - 4:00pm

Adventure Central / Wesleyan Possum Creek MetroPark Twin Valley / Germantown  Cox Arboretum  Impact

Volunteers provide quality administrative support to MetroParks staff, which enhances the efficiency of our operations and allows staff to dedicate more time to driving our mission forward.

Tasks Provide excellent customer service.  Be courteous and helpful to the general public, volunteers, and staff. Sort and distribute packages, mail, and other items. Regularly lift 10-15 pounds and occasionally lift as much as 25 pounds. Practice safe driving habits at all times. Practice confidentiality regarding all MetroParks personnel and business matters. Refuel vehicle at pre-identified locations during each shift. Complete vehicle use forms each shift and report any vehicle malfunction or service needs to Staff Lead immediately. Maintain open communication with the Staff Lead at all times. Eligibility This opportunity is open to the following volunteers: Long Term ages 18 and up who have trained and qualified as Volunteer Couriers. Learn more about our types of service here.This opportunity is currently not open for new volunteers. Additional Notes Commitment: Due to the training time invested in this opportunity, we are asking volunteers to commit to 1 year of service as a regularly scheduled Volunteer Courier. Volunteers must maintain a Valid Ohio driver’s license, provide proof of insurance, and submit a driver’s screening. Volunteers must submit to a standard drug test in the event of an accident. Parking and Meeting Instructions: Volunteers can park their vehicles in the MetroParks Main office lot, as long as a MetroParks Volunteer Hangtag is displayed in the front windshield.  Check in with the Visitor Services staff at the Main Office front desk upon arrival. Dress: Volunteers must wear a volunteer nametag and a high-visibility vest. Volunteers must carry a mobile phone during their shift for use in the event of an emergency. Cancelation: Email the list of Courier Volunteers to arrange a shift swap or a substitute. Notify the staff lead and Volunteer Coordinator of a shift swap, substitution, or cancellation with as much advance notice as possible. If you must cancel a shift less than 48 hours before the shift start time, please unregister your shift from Get Connected, AND call the staff lead. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Administration Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.

"From Hog House to Smokehouse" is a seasonal program at the Historic Farm that highlights one of the key winter activities on an 1880s farm: food preservation. Volunteers will assist with interpretive elements and activities such as meat cutting, wrapping meat, making sausage, woodstove cooking, and sharing information about the entire process from Hog House to Smokehouse. Demonstrations will showcase various methods of breaking down meat into different cuts, preserving it, and utilizing it in cooking. Volunteers will engage visitors through various demonstrations and interpretive stations throughout the farm. This seasonal program is an excellent opportunity for both experienced and new volunteers to enhance their skills before the full season begins.

Impact

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

Tasks. Greet and welcome participants Assist staff in the setup and/or teardown of activities. Assist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program. Volunteers are needed to help interpret the activities of the day. Share information about the farm, as well as interpret the butchering process. Engaging participants and families in the activities on the farm during the program. Assist staff with demonstrations of the various processes involved in butchering. Demonstrations will include meat grinding, making sausage, cooking with pork, rendering down lard on the stovetop, and cutting meat. Guidance on using the woodstove will be provided for new volunteers. 
Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Short-term and Long-Term volunteers 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, review specific stations, and provide other important information.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. Dress: Period apparel is required. Volunteers who need to be fitted need to 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 for more information on additional programming opportunities with us.  

Historic Blacksmith volunteers are needed during Traditional Butchering 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 participants. 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 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 a historical clothing check.  Volunteers will also have time for a review of what can be demonstrated 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.   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 for more information on skilled trades opportunities with us.  

Thank you for volunteering! 

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.

"From Hog House to Smokehouse" is a seasonal program at the Historic Farm that highlights one of the key winter activities on an 1880s farm: food preservation. Volunteers will assist with interpretive elements and activities such as meat cutting, wrapping meat, making sausage, woodstove cooking, and sharing information about the entire process from Hog House to Smokehouse. Demonstrations will showcase various methods of breaking down meat into different cuts, preserving it, and utilizing it in cooking. Volunteers will engage visitors through various demonstrations and interpretive stations throughout the farm. This seasonal program is an excellent opportunity for both experienced and new volunteers to enhance their skills before the full season begins.

Impact

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

Tasks. Greet and welcome participants Assist staff in the setup and/or teardown of activities. Assist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program. Volunteers are needed to help interpret the activities of the day. Share information about the farm, as well as interpret the butchering process. Engaging participants and families in the activities on the farm during the program. Assist staff with demonstrations of the various processes involved in butchering. Demonstrations will include meat grinding, making sausage, cooking with pork, rendering down lard on the stovetop, and cutting meat. Guidance on using the woodstove will be provided for new volunteers. 
Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Short-term and Long-Term volunteers who are 16 years or older and have submitted the historic interpreter virtual training requirement. 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, review specific stations, and provide other important information.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. Dress: For Shadow Experiences, Period apparel is NOT required. Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their volunteer name badge, and a volunteer vest will be available upon arrival.

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

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.  From Hoghouse to Smokehouse, and the activities,  will have volunteers supporting tasks related to traditional butchering and creating a successful multi-station program.

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 Welcome and greet visitors at the activity stations Share information about the various activities of the day Point out highlights of Carriage Hill Distribute materials as needed Help with breaks for various stations  Assist with simple, but essential, tasks to support the various stations   May assist with documenting the event through photos. Encourage volunteerism, and help direct to the website for information Eligibility 

This is opportunity is for the following volunteers: Short-Term and Long-Term Volunteers who are 16 and 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 30 minutes before the start of the event. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information.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. Volunteers may be standing or walking for the majority of their shift Dress: Program Support volunteers do not need to be in period apparel. Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear their MetroParks name badge, and volunteer vests will be available upon arrival.

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. 

Qualified Barn Aide volunteers and those in-training as Barn Aides completing Shadow Experiences can also assist with grooming and general horse care as needed throughout the year at the Carriage Hill Riding Center! These opportunities pop up periodically throughout the year and are only open to current Carriage Hill Riding Center Barn Aide volunteers. Responding to this opportunity will indicate your interest in these opportunities and you will be contacted when those opportunities arise. 

Impact

Volunteers assist with grooming and equine care and conditioning to promote the health and well-being of our horses at the Carriage Hill Riding Center.

Tasks Grooming, which may include bathing, brushing, and detangling manes and tails Health care, which may include bathing with medicated shampoo and hoof cleaning Conditioning, which may include riding the horses to prep them for lessons and trail season Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Youth, Long-Term, and Short-Term volunteers who have completed the Carriage Hill Riding Center Barn Aide Training series. 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:
May be exposed to heights and potential allergens such as hay, dust, cats and horses May experience uncomfortable temperature extremes during hot and cold weather This opportunity requires bending, reaching, and using upper body strength to utilize grooming tools Visit the Carriage Hill Riding Center Volunteer Training 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 Animal Care Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. 

Barn Aides are needed to help groom and handle the ponies during this fun, family-friendly valentine's program. Use your barn aide skills to help us celebrate Valentine's with the Ponies at the Carriage Hill Riding Center!

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.

TasksWelcome participants and assist with getting them signed in.Help groom and prepare the horses for the program.Assist with safe public and equine interactions including handling the ponies for pictures. Create a fun, friendly experience for children and families to interact safely with these animals.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Youth, Long-Term, and Short-term volunteers who are qualified Barn Aides.  Learn more about our types of service here.  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. Please check the weather and dress accordingly. Note: There is no heat inside the barn. In this work environment, volunteers will be exposed to hay, cat and horse dander, dust, and other environmental allergens.Dress: Please wear your MetroParks volunteer name badge and apparel if you have it.

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

Volunteers will share their textile skills and support staff in leading a fun program inspired by historical quilt block patterns. By the end of the series, participants will create a small quilt made up of all the blocks they have completed. In each session, volunteers will help students construct a 12-inch block using templates and a few modern techniques. To assist with these sessions, volunteers should have a textile qualification and be capable of guiding participants in using sewing machines, laying out patterns, and developing basic sewing skills.

Volunteers for this opportunity will be supporting the staff during a public program, and it DOES NOT REQUIRE PERIOD APPAREL! 

Impact

The individuals who volunteer their time and talents in the textile area help make it possible for others to experience these 19th-century skills that are still relevant today, create interest in these skills, enhance a more personalized experience in a program, and allow us to create beautiful items that have a function at the farm. Volunteers allow the interpretive teams to help visitors make a stronger connection to the history of Carriage Hill and experience life on an 1880s working farm.   

Tasks Assist with set up and prep for the classGreet and welcome participants to class and get them signed in. Volunteers will ​​support the instructor and students new to sewing and sewing machines. Support and assist staff or participants with cutting out the pattern, simple sewing by hand and machine, and threading the needle.Support and assist participants with sewing projects, changing sewing and bobbin thread, and learning parts of our sewing machines.Support and assist participants in putting quilt blocks and pattern together, Assist the staff lead in creating a better learning environment for this interactive opportunity, and give participants the encouragement needed to do a new skill. Volunteers will be paired with a student, ages 10-17, and will assist with instructions and the use of the sewing machine. Assist with the clean-up of the program. Eligibility

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

Volunteers must have completed the Textile qualification and the  Skills Assessment - Sewing .  You can review, so you are prepared to ask questions, clarify any part of the assessment, and help demonstrate skills. Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions:  Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers will arrive 1/2 hour prior to the start of the program.  Parking is available in the Visitor Center lot, and volunteers should enter the Visitor Center and go to the Textile space to the left once they enter the building.  Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information. Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place indoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more. 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. Programming background information related to sewing: Life in the 1800s on the Farm - Sewing Textile: Carriage Hill Historic Farm - Willcox & Gibbs Hand Crank Sewing Machine Let’s Sew: Darning and Weaving 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 and Programming Volunteer Positions for more information on volunteer 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. 

Thank you for volunteering! 

 

The enchanting maple season kicks off when temperatures soar above freezing during the day and dip below at night, resulting in the delightful flow of clear, sweet sap from the trees. At Carriage Hill's Historic Farm, you can be part of this wonderful experience! Volunteers play a vital role in our engaging interpretive stations that celebrate this delicious, natural treasure. Join us to assist with exciting demonstrations and activities, all centered around the magic of sap. Come be a part of this delicious journey!

Although the Historic Farm is not yet open for the season, the early-season programs like Maple Sugaring are examples of life on the historic farm.  Historic Interpreters provide engaging activities and help visitors create a memorable experience at Carriage Hill Historic Farm.   

Impact

Through oral history, letters, diaries, government records, and other primary and secondary sources, a picture of a lifestyle emerges that Carriage Hill interpreters can bring to life for the public. 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 the experience of life on an 1880s working farm. This opportunity will allow people to enjoy an experience at the historic farm, learn more about maple sugaring, and get a personal introduction to life on the farm.

Tasks. Greet and welcome participants Assist staff in the setup and/or teardown of activities. Assist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program. Volunteers are needed to help interpret the activities of the day. Share information about the farm, as well as interpret how maple sugar is processed. Engaging participants and families in the activities on the farm during the program. Assist staff with demonstrations of the various processes involved in the maple sugar process. Demonstrations will include boiling down the sap, making maple sugar, and cooking with maple syrup and sugar. Guidance on using the woodstove will also be provided. Assist staff with tours of the historic farm. Review Maple Sugaring Information SheetsOhio Maple FactsMaple History TimelineHow Much Sap Is NeededMaple Sugaring at Carriage Hill Walk Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, review specific stations, and provide other important information.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. Dress: Period apparel is required. Dress for the weather and layering under period clothing can keep you warmer.  Volunteers who need to be fitted, or need seasonal period outerwear need to 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 for more information on programming opportunities with us.  

Historic Woodworker volunteers are needed during Maple Sugaring 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 is an opportunity for the following volunteers: Long-Term Volunteers who have qualified as Historic Interpreters, as well as, 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.   This is the starting step needed to become a Historic Woodworker.Additional information to qualify as a Historic Woodworker can be found by visiting our Historic Woodworker Volunteer Training page here.
Additional Notes Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 30 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.Environment & Physical Demands: This program takes place outdoors. Volunteers may participate in some bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting objects to 10 lbs or more.   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.

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Skilled Trades Volunteer Position for more information on skilled trade opportunities with us.  

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 Welcome and greet visitors at the activity stations Share information about the various activities of the day Point out highlights of Carriage Hill Distribute materials as needed Help with breaks for various stations  Assist with simple but essential tasks to support the various stations  May assist with documenting the event through photos. Encourage volunteerism, and help direct to the website for informationWant to be more engaged in the activities?  Review Maple Sugaring Information SheetsOhio Maple FactsMaple History TimelineHow Much Sap Is NeededMaple Sugaring at Carriage Hill Walk Eligibility 

This is an opportunity for the following volunteers: Short-Term and Long-Term Volunteers who are 16 and 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers are scheduled to arrive 30 minutes before the start of the event. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda and other important information.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. Volunteers may be standing or walking for the majority of their shift Dress: Program Support volunteers do not require period apparel. Volunteers should dress for the weather and wear their MetroParks name badge. A volunteer vest will be available when you check in.

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. 

Historic Blacksmith volunteers are needed during Maple Sugaring on the Farm 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 participants. 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 the following volunteers: Long-Term Volunteers who have qualified as Historic Interpreters, as well as Historic Blacksmiths. 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.   This is the starting step needed to become a Historic Blacksmith.Additional information to qualify as a Historic Blacksmith can be found by visiting our Historic Blacksmith Volunteer Training page 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 opportunity. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's activities, including planned demonstrations and a historical clothing check.  Volunteers will also have time for a review of what can be demonstrated 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.   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. 

Look for Additional Details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing!  See the Skilled Trades Volunteer Position for more information on skilled trade opportunities with us.  

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 individuals who volunteer their time and talents help put excitement and perspective into the activities at the Carriage Hill Historic Farm. Volunteers during program times may engage the public with assorted demonstrations or interpretive stations in different areas. Each volunteer's pride and dedication in "working on the farm" gives Carriage Hill Farm vitality. 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. Through oral history, letters, diaries, government records, and other primary and secondary sources, a picture of a lifestyle emerges that Carriage Hill interpreters can bring to life for the public. Volunteers will be program support for the Maple Sugaring at Carriage Hill 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 the experience of life on an 1880s working farm. This opportunity will allow people to enjoy an experience at the historic farm, learn more about maple sugaring, and get a personal introduction to life on the farm.

Tasks. Greet and welcome participants Assist staff in the setup and/or tear down of activities. Assist the staff lead during the program to create a better learning environment for this interactive program. Volunteers are needed to help interpret the activities of the day. Share information about the farm, as well as interpret how maple sugar is processed. Engaging participants and families in the activities on the farm during the program. Assist staff with demonstrations of the various processes involved in the maple sugar process. Demonstrations will include boiling down the sap, making maple sugar, and cooking with maple syrup and sugar. Guidance on using the woodstove will also be provided. Assist staff with tours of the historic farmReview Maple Sugaring Information SheetsOhio Maple FactsMaple History TimelineHow Much Sap Is NeededMaple Sugaring at Carriage Hill Walk Eligibility

This opportunity is open to the following volunteers:  Short-term and Long-Term volunteers who are 16 years or older and have completed the historic interpreter virtual training. 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Volunteers will meet at the Historic Farm. Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark.  Volunteers arrive 30 minutes before the beginning of the program. Staff leads will orient volunteers to the day's agenda, review specific stations, and provide other important information.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. Dress: Period apparel is not required. Volunteers will need to be fitted before they can sign up for Historic Interpreter opportunities.  

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

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

Impact

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

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

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:

typical garden maintenance, including soil preparation, laying out beds, planting both seeds and plants, weeding and cultivation, and harvesting. This position is open to gardeners of all skill levels, from beginner to expert. In addition, some landscape gardening in flower beds may be included.

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 at the 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.  Volunteers can expect to participate in routine bending, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and moving material of 15 pounds or more. ALLERGY ALERT: typical farm environment; hay and animal allergies. 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. 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.

 

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

Impact

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

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

Our Outdoor Recreation team creates a learning environment that helps individuals enjoy the outdoors through fun and safe activities. The MetroParks Trails Challenge is a great way to explore the region's trails while staying active outdoors. Participants can complete the challenge on their own schedule and at their own pace, choosing the trails they prefer. Are you a volunteer who enjoys exploring MetroParks and a variety of trails?  Our recreation team, along with the support of volunteers, provides personalized attention during scheduled hikes, enhancing the experience for everyone involved. Volunteers help individuals seeking to enhance their physical and mental well-being while connecting with nature and embracing an active outdoor lifestyle. Join us as a program support volunteer to help connect participants with nature, embrace an active outdoor lifestyle, and meet others with similar interests.  This opportunity will be at Carriage Hill MetroPark, and hiking the orange trail (1.3 miles).  

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 the 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 the staff shares with participants further back on the hike. Assist the 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 Parking & Meeting Instructions: Click here for a map of Carriage Hill MetroPark. Volunteers should park and meet the staff in the Cedar Lake parking lot. Your shift time begins 30 minutes before the program starts for quick review, last-minute prep, and to introduce you to this new program.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 work environment may have uneven terrain. Volunteers should be able to hike the distance of the trails at a moderate speed. Dress: Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and their MetroParks name badge and volunteer apparel. 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 for more information on other programming opportunities with us.  

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: 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 Carriage Hill MetroPark. The program will take place in the Visitor Center.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. Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more information.