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How to Volunteer

You may be just who we're looking for!

What volunteers do

  • Clean Streams
  • Monitor Bluebird Boxes
  • Maintain Trails
  • Assist Archaeological Digs
  • Office Work
  • Advocate for Parks
  • Conduct Tours
  • Greenhouse Work
  • Plant Trees
  • Monitor Streams
  • Provide Garden Tours
  • Assist at Events
  • Patrol Parks
  • Interpret Nature and History
  • Maintain Gardens
  • Make Displays and More

Individual volunteers

Our long term volunteer program offers many exciting positions for those people who can offer their time and talents on a regular basis and who are ready to make the commitment to become a part of the team. Some jobs require specialized skills while others ask only for enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Volunteer job descriptions outline the basic requirements and duties of each job. While every job is different, most will require a minimum commitment of eight hours per month.

An interview with park staff provides the applicant with an opportunity to become familiar with the job requirements and duties as well as the staff and facility. We can answer questions and find out more about you.

Training is provided and may be a formal workshop, a series of classes or on the job. Ongoing supervision affords the volunteer support and direction.

Group Volunteers

A good way to start volunteering is as part of a group. Civic, youth and other community groups frequently help in our parks. It's a fun way to get your feet wet (often literally!).

The office of Volunteer Services can help you decide on a project most appropriate for your group. The age, physical ability, skills and interests of your group, as well as the time of year and preferred location, will help determine the project that will work best.

The group leader is responsible for acting as a liaison with park staff, working out logistics and ensuring that all group members are notified. Parks provide a list of safety guidelines and most materials needed for a successful project.

Whether cleaning a stream, planting trees or painting play equipment, group volunteers provide us with the "people power" needed to get the job done.

What's happening

View current volunteer opportunities.
Start you process application.

Have a question?

To find out more, please contact the Office of Volunteer Services by phone 301-495-2504 or e-mail Jayne Hench, Volunteer Services Coordinator.

We'll be happy to help get you started as a volunteer in our parks.

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Date of last update: May 5, 2008