Volunteer Programs

Volunteers are vital to the success of our community. Opportunities with the City of Vancouver can accommodate individuals, families, groups, businesses, and people of all ages and abilities.

Outdoor and<br>Environmental

Adopt-A-Park – Help maintain a park of your choice by picking up litter, cleaning park equipment, removing weeds and invasive plants and working on other projects to keep the park comfortable and safe.

Annual Trail Count – Participate in the National Bicycle and Pedestrian Documentation Program that takes place each year in September. The data collected helps develop future trail plans and budgets.

Naturespaces – A pilot program to enhance native habitat and restore green spaces in Vancouver. Volunteers learn about the natural history of the region while participating in hands-on volunteer projects.

Urban Forestry – Help expand and protect Vancouver’s tree canopy with tree plantings, tree tours, pruning and identification workshops and more.

Water Resources Education Center – Help people use water wisely by assisting at special events, working with school groups or contributing to special projects.

Litter Removal – Keep Vancouver safe and clean as a litter steward. This can be a self-directed volunteer role or join a group expedition.

In the Community

Special Events – Support a wide variety of special events hosted by the City of Vancouver including movies, concerts, dances and festivals.

Recreation Volunteers – Vancouver recreation programs and community centers are supported by hundreds of volunteers each year.

Neighborhood Associations – Learn more about volunteering in your neighborhood.

Boards and Commissions – Boards and Commissions advise the City Council on many topics. The City also participates on the boards of other local agencies.

Scout Projects (Currently Unavailable) – We are not able to fulfill Scout Project requests at this time.

Fire and Police

Vancouver Fire Department – Volunteer with Fire Corps, a nationwide partner program of Citizen Corps and focus on unique areas of non-emergency support that are critical to Vancouver Fire Department’s mission. Or receive specialized training to volunteer in the Trauma Intervention Program.

Vancouver Police Department – The Vancouver Police Department has many ways for community members to volunteer including Volunteers in Police Service, Neighbors on Watch (NOW) and Paws on Patrol.

Documents

Recognition

The City of Vancouver recognizes the important work of our thousands of volunteers on an ongoing basis, at a large annual Volunteer Appreciation event and through the Volunteer Grove awards. Check out the Volunteer Grove page for more information on individual recognition of selfless service and commitment to our community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate?

Most volunteer opportunities are great for families and volunteers of all ages. If there is a project with age or ability restrictions, this information will be specified on the event page.

How much experience do I need?

None! Come prepared to learn new skills, meet new people, explore new places, and give back to our community.

What should I wear and bring with me?

Volunteers are advised to bring their own water bottle, water filling station and extra snacks may be provided. Dress for the weather and wear long pants and close-toed shoes. Gloves, tools, training and leadership will be provided.

Can I arrive late or leave early?

Do your best to arrive on time. Arriving 10 minutes before the event will provide plenty of time to find parking, walk to the meeting location and sign-in. It is important for all volunteers to be fully oriented on project details, safety and proper tool use before they begin the project.

Where do I park?

A confirmation email will be sent to everyone who has signed up for the event a few days prior. The email will contain directions to the project site, parking information and anything else you need to know.

Do I need to RSVP?

Yes, you must RSVP in advance as group size is limited and project details are subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances. Volunteers should RSVP through each project’s specific event page in order to receive emails with important information prior to the event and to assist the volunteer team in preparing the appropriate number of supplies and snacks.  

What if I need to cancel?

Please call 360-487-8344 as soon as possible if you need to cancel your attendance at a volunteer event. 

Are minors under 18 or children under 14 allowed to volunteer?

Volunteers under the age of 18 must bring a minor consent form signed by their parent or guardian. Print the Minor Consent Form and bring it with you the day you plan to volunteer.

Volunteers under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult during the entire volunteer opportunity and bring a signed Minor Consent Form.

May I bring a large group?

Large group volunteer capacity may be available, depending on the event. Contact cityvolunteer@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-8344 for information. 

It’s raining, are we still going to volunteer?

Absolutely! Volunteers are on-site rain or shine. Wear weather appropriate clothing to stay dry during the opportunity. We want you to be comfortable and enjoy your experience. Volunteer events may be canceled in the event of extreme weather such as lightning, unhealthy air quality, snow, or other emergencies.

May I bring my pet?

Pets should be left at home as they may cause distractions and/or safety hazards.

May I bring my own power tools?

Power tools should be left at home as they are not approved for volunteer purposes on City property.

When is the last day I can sign up to volunteer?

Registration is open until two days before the event. A confirmation email is typically sent out with details about the event so advanced registration will ensure receive any important information.