Opportunities From: Get Connected

Congratulations on being invited to the 2026 volunteer banquet and a huge THANK YOU for all the hard work you've done for the WCPD!! Now it is time to celebrate YOU!

Theme: Volunteers in Bloom - Celebration of Flora & Trails 

Please sign up for this opportunity- it counts as your RSVP for the April 23rd Dinner.

There will be a beautiful catered dinner, a chance to win raffle prizes and WCPD Staff recap. Please come and enjoy, share stories and reflect as we go into another great year with all of you!

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.

School group size: 

32 K - 5 grade students with 4 chaperones  

Discovering Soils 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.  Students will also plant seeds and learn about pollinators.  Volunteers will help with groups of children in sensory exploration in nature and be a part of inspiring future generations of gardeners!

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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. 

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.

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

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

Program Support

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.

School group size:  La Petite Academy

36 K - 5 grade students with 4 chaperones  

Discovering Soils 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!

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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. 

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.

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

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

Program Support

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.

School group size:  Gloria Dei Montessori

30 K - 5 grade students with 3 chaperones  

Discovering Soils 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!

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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. 

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.

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

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

Program Support

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.

School group size:  Kindercare East Social Row

35 K - 5 grade students with 4 chaperones  

Discovering Soils 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!

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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. 

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.

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

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

Program Support

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:  DPS Ready, Set, Grow Kindergarten Readiness

100 tentative - school staff chaperones.   Students will be broken into smaller groups. (returning group)

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 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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.  

Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact your Staff Lead at the provided number.

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.

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. 

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

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

Program Support

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:  Middletown Christian Early Learning Center

34 K - 5 students with 3 chaperones (teachers).   Students will be broken into smaller groups.

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 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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.  

Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact your Staff Lead at the provided number.

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.

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. 

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

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

Program Support

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:  Dayton Christian Mini Camp

40 Pre-K students with 10 chaperones (teachers and parents).   Students will be broken into smaller groups.

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 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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.  

Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact your Staff Lead at the provided number.

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.

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. 

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

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

Program Support

We need your help to keep great books accessible to communities 24/7. Visit Little Free Libraries in your community to distribute books! 

We can suggest where to look for free or inexpensive books, or if you already have some, you can share those too. You can find book-sharing boxes near you using our world map or free mobile app. Volunteers over 18 anywhere in the U.S. where there are Little Free Libraries can register for this opportunity. 

Register on our website to get started. If it's your first time signing up with Team LFL, you will be prompted to create an account in our volunteer hub. Once you sign up, you will get access to tips & resources that you review independently online. Our Little Free Library staff can answer your questions by email. You can share books whenever it works for you.  

This is a great opportunity for solo volunteers looking for something flexible to fit their schedule, or for parents looking for a volunteer activity they can do with kids. 

Purpose: By keeping Little Free Libraries full of books, you are helping to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access. 

Responsibilities:

Time required: You set your own schedule. It could be a one-time project or a regular book distribution schedule.

How we can support you: We'll help you start with some online training, and we will suggest sources for books.

Qualifications:

Questions: You can contact the Community Engagement Manager to ask questions. 

We need volunteers to help us in our gardens! Join us for a Garden Cleanup series starting end of April into May!

Conduct weeding and cutting old dead plants back from last season.

Volunteers just need to bring themselves, weather appropriate clothes they don't mind getting dirty and water! Gardening tools provided.

We need volunteers to help us in our gardens! Join us for a Garden Cleanup series starting end of April into May!

Conduct weeding and cutting old dead plants back from last season.

Volunteers just need to bring themselves, weather appropriate clothes they don't mind getting dirty and water! Gardening tools provided.

We need volunteers to help us in our gardens!

Join us for a Garden Cleanup series starting end of April into May! Conduct weeding and cutting old dead plants back from last season.

Volunteers just need to bring themselves, weather appropriate clothes they don't mind getting dirty and water! Gardening tools provided.

We need volunteers to help us in our gardens! Join us for a Garden Cleanup series starting end of April into May!

Conduct weeding and cutting old dead plants back from last season.

Volunteers just need to bring themselves, weather appropriate clothes they don't mind getting dirty and water! Gardening tools provided.

We need volunteers to help us in our gardens! Join us for a Garden Cleanup series starting end of April into May!

Conduct weeding and cutting old dead plants back from last season.

Volunteers just need to bring themselves, weather appropriate clothes they don't mind getting dirty and water! Gardening tools provided.

Participants build archery skills in this registered program, eventually shooting at paint-filled balloons to create a splatter painting!

Volunteers may assist with registering participants, managing archery materials, safety monitoring, filling balloons with non-toxic paint, and providing a friendly and happy experience for participants.

Training provided before the program. Contact Craig Spicer with questions 419-661-1697x3 cspicer@wcparks.org.

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. This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as a School Program Volunteer. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced volunteer and/or Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the skills needed to successfully lead an activity station or school group.

School group size:  International School 

41 - 3rd grade w/ 4 chaperones (program 10-11:30 AM)  Will be broken into smaller groups of students.

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!

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 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 and schedule shadow experiences.

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.  

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.

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

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

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

Program Support

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. This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as a School Program Volunteer. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced volunteer and/or Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the skills needed to successfully lead an activity station or school group.

School group size:  International School 

31 2nd-grade students w/ 4 chaperones (program 10-11:30 AM).  Will be broken into smaller groups of students.

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!

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 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 and schedule shadow experiences.

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. 

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

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

Program Support

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.  This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as a School Program Volunteer. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced volunteer and/or Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the skills needed to successfully lead an activity station or school group.

School group size:  Mark Twain Elementary 

80 -  Kindergarten students, 20 chaperones.   Will be broken into smaller groups of students.

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!

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, short-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteers.  This opportunity is available for OSUE Master Gardener service hours.

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.  

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.

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.

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

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

Program Support

Volunteers make Bike MS possible—and we would love to have you join us!

Bike MS: Escape to the Lake 2026 is a powerful, community-driven cycling event that raises funds to support people affected by multiple sclerosis while fueling critical research, programs, and services.

We are currently seeking volunteers for Saturday, June 13th in Butler County (Portersville, PA), which marks the start of this two-day ride to Conneaut, OH.

There are a wide variety of roles available, including:

To view various positions and shifts: https://nmss.galaxydigital.com/need/?s=1&need_init_id=15206

If you have any questions or are interested in bringing a group, feel free to reach out to matilda.devlin@nmss.org —I’m happy to help coordinate!

Thank you for supporting the MS community—we couldn’t do this without you.

Would you like to be a part of building a space that connects families and youth to the enjoyment and benefits of what a garden has to offer? We are kicking off the season by getting our raised beds ready by cleaning up some of the debris and old soil, and refreshing them with new soil and compost.  Join the knowledgeable education team in Skeeters' Garden, and learn what it takes to create raised beds that are pretty and productive.  

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.  Volunteers help the staff create educational spaces for families to learn and grow strong plants at home.  Thanks to volunteer support, these spaces are making it easy for families to see an example of what can be done at home.

Tasks

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

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

Additional Notes:

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

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

Program Support

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

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth volunteers ages 14 and up who have qualified as Equestrian Arena Assistants.

Additional Notes

See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information. Have questions or need help getting started? Contact Volunteer Services at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or #937-275-7275 or join us at a Volunteer Open House.

Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity to give back to Five Rivers MetroParks through Gardening? Would you like to be a part of building a space that connects families and youth to the enjoyment and benefits of what a garden has to offer? Join the knowledgeable education team in Skeeters' Garden, assisting with weekly garden tasks that create a space where visitors and families can discover, experience, and love our world through gardening.   You do not need to be an expert for this opportunity, but gardening and plant knowledge are always a plus.

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.  Volunteers help the staff create educational spaces for families to learn and grow strong plants at home.  Thanks to volunteer support, these spaces are making it easy for families to see an example of what can be done at home.

Tasks

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

Eligibility

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

Additional Notes

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

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

Program Support

Teaching adults about garden plants can be an exciting journey when approached with hands-on, self-paced, and practical methods. Imagine digging into the soil, planting seeds, and watching them grow together while sharing stories and tips. This interactive approach allows learners to connect with nature, develop their gardening skills, and gain confidence in their abilities, all while having fun along the way. Participants have varying levels of knowledge and experience, and volunteers help create a more personalized learning experience for everyone.  Help us cultivate not just plants, but a vibrant community of passionate gardeners! This session starts in Skeeter's Garden with a discussion of the peppers, beans, and squash, the different types, and how they are best grown. Volunteers will assist with planting demonstrations and using the different supports needed for the different varieties. 
If you love plants and gardening and want to inspire others with this passion, we invite you to join us! Program Support volunteers do not need to be experts in the activities, but for this opportunity, should have some gardening knowledge, be enthusiastic about finding discoveries in the garden, and be able to hike the garden areas.   

Engaging volunteers within our gardening programs not only enriches the learning experience but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration.  Volunteers are the heart of our community, playing a vital role in engaging in gardening activities that transform our gardens into a lively classroom.

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

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

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

Garden Guide Virtual Training

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, see demonstrations of simple everyday farm tasks, and get a personal introduction to life on the farm. 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. 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.  

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

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, short-term volunteers, ages 16 and up who have qualified as Historic Interpreters.  

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

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

Carriage Hill Farm Chores

Program Support
 

Just us for a fun filled performance by Arena Fair at the Whimsy Venue.  Help us and receive a food or drinks voucher, while enjoying the show.  to sign up, use this Signup Genius: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050C4EA4A629A2FA7-63294852-symphony

Join us at Boardman Arts Park when the Symphony performs popular music to 1500 guests!  Volunteers will count free attendees, help VIP guests, serve at the bar, setup and tear down.  Volunteers will receive a free drink ticket or $7 food voucher.

Sign up is here:  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050C4EA4A629A2FA7-63294852-symphony

Join Hillel at Talawanda Oxford Pantry and Social Services to help those in need in Oxford.

Teaching adults about garden plants is most effective when using hands-on, self-paced, and practical methods. Volunteers support the staff by enhancing these programs and discovery hikes, providing extra attention to participants' curiosity and individual learning speeds. Participants have varying levels of knowledge and experience, and volunteers help create a more personalized learning experience for everyone. Volunteers are the heart of our community, playing a vital role in engaging in gardening activities that transform our gardens into a lively classroom.  These are walk-and-talk programs with the University of Dayton's Lifelong Learning participants. Topics will include native wildflowers and early blooming flowers, trees, and shrubs, highlighted examples in the hike. 
If you love plants and gardening and want to inspire others with this passion, we invite you to join us! Program Support volunteers do not need to be experts in the activities, but for this opportunity, should have some gardening knowledge, be enthusiastic about finding discoveries in the garden, and be able to hike the garden areas.   

Engaging volunteers within our gardening programs not only enriches the learning experience but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration.

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

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

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

Garden Guide Virtual Training

Teaching adults about garden plants is most effective when using hands-on, self-paced, and practical methods. Volunteers support the staff by enhancing these programs and discovery hikes, providing extra attention to participants' curiosity and individual learning speeds. Participants have varying levels of knowledge and experience, and volunteers help create a more personalized learning experience for everyone. Volunteers are the heart of our community, playing a vital role in engaging in gardening activities that transform our gardens into a lively classroom.  These are walk-and-talk programs with the University of Dayton's Lifelong Learning participants. Topics will include native wildflowers and early blooming flowers, trees, and shrubs, highlighted examples in the hike. 
If you love plants and gardening and want to inspire others with this passion, we invite you to join us! Program Support volunteers do not need to be experts in the activities, but for this opportunity, should have some gardening knowledge, be enthusiastic about finding discoveries in the garden, and be able to hike the garden areas.   

Engaging volunteers within our gardening programs not only enriches the learning experience but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration.

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

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

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

Garden Guide Virtual Training

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.

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

Eligibility

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

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 for 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.

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.

Eligibility

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

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.

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 Blacksmith volunteers bring the history of the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm to life by interpreting 19th-century farm life, interpreting the Blacksmith shop and it's tool, and demonstrating basic techniques needed for the repairs on the farm.   This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as Historic Blacksmith for the Daniel Arnold Historic Farm at Carriage Hill MetroPark. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced Historic Blacksmith volunteer and/or Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the skills of a Historic Blacksmith. Period clothing is not required for this shadow experience; however, if you move forward to fully qualify as a Historic Blacksmith, period clothing will be required.

Historic Blacksmith volunteers provide interpretation and demonstrations for the Blacksmith shop on the Daniel A Arnold Historic Farm.  They 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. 

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

 This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up, who have qualified as Historic Interpreters and completed the virtual training for Historic Blacksmith.  

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

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

Carriage Hill Farm Chores

Historic Woodworker

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.

School group size:  Mark Twain Elementary 

80 -  Kindergarten students, 20 chaperones.   Will be broken into smaller groups of students.

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!

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.

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.  

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.

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 for more information on programming opportunities with us.

Gardens can be vibrant, hands-on spaces where children can explore, learn, and grow! They provide an exciting opportunity for kids to build essential skills, boost their confidence, and make meaningful connections. At Skeeter's garden, volunteers are the heart of our community, playing a vital role in engaging in gardening activities that transform our garden into a lively classroom.

If you love working with children and want to inspire the next generation, we invite you to join us! As a volunteer, you'll have the chance to guide kids in hands-on activities that teach them how to grow their own food, spark their curiosity about the fascinating creatures in the garden, and connect gardening tasks with fun physical activities.  Program Support volunteers do not need to be experts in the activities, but for this opportunity, should have some gardening knowledge, be enthusiastic about finding discoveries in the garden, and enjoy working with children and families.  

Participating in our gardening programs helps youth make significant strides in their academic, physical, social-emotional, and environmental development. These benefits are especially impactful for children facing barriers related to food security, health, and access to engaging learning experiences. Together, we can cultivate not just plants, but also a brighter future for our young learners! Join us in making a lasting difference.

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

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

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

Adventure Central Program Assistant 2026

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.  The textile group welcomes all those interested in supporting their efforts to breathe new life into fiber arts and textile activities!  Textile volunteers help us create, maintain, and repair essential items at our historic farm and other MetroParks facilities. There are many tasks that aid us in these efforts that require no previous experience.  

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.

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, and short-term volunteers, ages 16 and up . Learn more about our types of service here. 

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

The program will take participants 450 million years into the past to explore the ancient marine world of Ohio and the evidence it left behind. Volunteers will support this hands-on professional development workshop specifically designed for educators. Molly E. Hunt, an educator with Ohio Rocks! and a geologist with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Geological Survey, will lead an engaging evening filled with interactive presentations, fossil identification activities, and curriculum-ready demonstrations. Volunteers will assist the speaker, help with the setup and teardown of the venue, and assist our staff with the refreshment setup.   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 help us achieve much more by assisting with simple activities, enabling demonstrators to take breaks, and engaging with participants about the activities while ensuring tasks are completed.

 Tasks

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

 Additional Notes

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

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

Program Support

This Shadow Experience opportunity is for those volunteers in training to serve as a Historic Interpreter Volunteer. You will be partnered with a qualified and experienced volunteer and/or Staff Lead during this shadow experience to observe, learn, and practice the skills needed to fully qualify as a Historic Interpreter.

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.  Historic interpreter volunteers allow people to enjoy an experience at the historic farm, see demonstrations of simple everyday farm tasks, and get a personal introduction to life on the 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. 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.  

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

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, short-term volunteers, ages 16 and up who have completed the Historic Interpreter virtual training.  

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

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

Carriage Hill Farm Chores

Program Support

Weaving offers versatility in creating a wide range of items, from everyday necessities to artistic and decorative pieces. Aullwood Gardens is a perfect place in the spring, with the wooded beauty and the bluebells in bloom, to create artistic projects! Volunteers assist the staff leads in creating a more engaging and individualized learning experience for beginner weavers. The class participants will weave a beautiful, textured scarf, using a larger rigid heddle loom, while enjoying the view from the Aull house. An additional technique involving pick-up sticks.    This opportunity focuses on program support for those new to weaving and using a heddle loom and requires volunteers to have skills in weaving and using a heddle loom.

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. As MetroParks reintroduces textile programs and skills to our community, it is essential to have skilled volunteers who can reinforce new skills and encourage new learners.     

This opportunity is open to individual, long-term, and short-term volunteers, ages 16 and up, who have completed the textile qualification and have a current annual textile check-off. Learn more about our types of service here.

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

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:  Charity Adams Earley Girls Academy

50 3rd grade students with 5 chaperones.   Students will be broken into smaller groups.

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 

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to individual, long-term volunteers, ages 18 and up who have qualified as School Program Volunteer.  Simply click the blue RESPOND button to sign up or click here to learn more about becoming a volunteer. 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 and schedule shadow experiences.

Additional Notes

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.  

Cancellation:  If you need to cancel a shift at the last minute or are running late, please contact your Staff Lead at the provided number.

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.

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. 

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

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

Program Support

Passport to MetroParks aims to build community awareness of what our MetroParks offers and will highlight various MetroParks' events, programs, and parks. Throughout the event, guests can visit vendor booths hosting games and activities featuring upcoming festivals and various recreation, education, conservation, and volunteer programs Five Rivers MetroParks offers. Program Support Volunteer will share their enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks with diverse audiences. Help enhance the visitor experience by greeting and welcoming park patrons, answering questions, and assisting staff at this activity station.

The Outdoor Recreation team has the climbing wall as a  "try it" activity within the event to help get participants active and excited about upcoming recreation programs and events. Volunteers will be program support, add individualized attention, and allow participants to learn more about the various ways to get active.

This activity, supervised by expert staff and/or vendors and is supported by volunteers. It provides an opportunity for an entry-level climbing experience and a chance to work on climbing skills. Volunteers help make this a safe and engaging experience for all participants.

Impact

Program Support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming like "try it" activities to the public. 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

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

Additional Notes

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

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

Program Support

Passport to MetroParks aims to build community awareness of what our MetroParks offers and will highlight various MetroParks' events, programs, and parks. Throughout the event, guests can visit vendor booths hosting games and activities featuring upcoming festivals and various recreation, education, conservation, and volunteer programs Five Rivers MetroParks offers. Program Support Volunteer will share their enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks with diverse audiences. Help enhance the visitor experience by greeting and welcoming park patrons, answering questions, and assisting staff at this activity station.

The Outdoor Recreation team has the climbing wall as a  "try it" activity within the event to help get participants active and excited about upcoming recreation programs and events. Volunteers will be program support, add individualized attention, and allow participants to learn more about the various ways to get active.

This activity, supervised by expert staff and/or vendors, is supported by volunteers and provides an opportunity for an entry-level climbing experience and a chance to work on climbing skills. Volunteers help make this a safe and engaging experience for all participants.

Impact

Program Support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming like "try it" activities to the public. 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

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

Additional Notes

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

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

Program Support

Support the annual Carriage Hill Riding Center Horse Show! Carriage Hill Riding Center is hosting a horse show to showcase what our riding lessons students have learned and give them the opportunity to ride in front of their family and friends. Registration Volunteers are needed to ensure a smooth and fun experience for all these students and their guests.

Registration & Snack Volunteers will greet the participants and their families, check in each participant, and distribute numbers and name tags, and assist with distributing snacks. Come on out and join the fun while making a difference!

Impact

Special Event volunteers serve a critical role in ensuring that each special event or large-scale program runs smoothly from set-up to teardown.  

Tasks

Eligibility

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

Additional Notes:

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

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!

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. 

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

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

Eligibility

This is an opportunity for Long-Term and Short-Term volunteers who are 16 and older.

Additional Notes

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

As a part of our mission to build community and increase book access, we’ve begun connecting stewards with their local booksellers through the LFL-Friendly Bookseller’s Directory. A crucial piece of this project is to reach out and ask booksellers to offer benefits to stewards, such as discounts, book donations, or event space discounts for meetups. We need your help to share information with booksellers about how they can support their local LFL stewards!

How to get started: Sign up on our website. If it's your first time volunteering with Team LFL, you will be asked to create an account in our volunteer hub. After you register, you will be instructed to compile a list of local booksellers you’d like to visit and submit it to us. After we receive your list, we will send you a packet of materials to distribute while you’re visiting the booksellers . 

Purpose: By helping connect Little Free Library stewards to local booksellers, you are helping to build community, inspire readers, and expand book access. 

Responsibilities:

Visit local booksellers (5 minimum, but can visit as many as you'd like) to drop off information packet on the bookseller’s directory

Be polite and courteous when visiting the bookseller - wait in line to speak to a staff member, don’t be pushy, encourage them to review the information and contact LFL with any questions.

Create a list of local booksellers that you plan to visit. 

Check the existing map to see which booksellers are already listed - you don’t need to go to any that are already listed!

Use booksellers’ associations (MIBA, CALIBA, etc.) to find booksellers near you (if you don’t already know them!)

Visit bookstores, use the provided Excel template to record who you’ve visited, and submit sheet to us via Givepulse.

As an incentive for completing this volunteer opportunity, you will be entered in a giveaway to receive a $50 gift card to the local bookseller of your choice.

Record your impact using Givepulse.

Time Required: A typical visit to a bookseller lasts about five to ten minutes, plus travel to and from, as well as time spent beforehand to research local booksellers. 

Training & Resources Available: We will help you get to know our organization and share tips to find local booksellers near you. 

Qualifications:

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.

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. 

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

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!

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. 

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

Do you enjoy gardening, or are you curious to learn more about native plants and sustainable horticulture? Join the knowledgeable staff and fellow volunteers at Aullwood Garden MetroPark and get hands-on experience caring for one of Dayton’s premier historic garden estates. Help bring Marie Aull’s vision to life by supporting gardening practices rooted in local conservation, all within a peaceful setting along the Stillwater River.

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. 

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

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. 

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.

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. 

Sam Center is partnering with Serve Ohio for Global Youth Service Day to work on our outdoor spaces, reset and build Flags with "Operation Flags for Freedom", build shelving for our attic space, and spend time reorganizing and restructuring our outdoor storage and our attic storage spaces. 

Serving Area Military and Veterans depends on volunteers to serve our veterans, and we are excited to partner with the community for these events.  

We are hosting multiple workdays between April 4 and April 25th for volunteers to come assist us with these projects for Global Youth Service Day.

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

Impact

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

Tasks  

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

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

Additional Notes:

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

The Passport to MetroParks event aims to build community awareness of what our Metroparks offers and will highlight various MetroParks' events, programs, and parks. Program Support Volunteer will share their enthusiasm for Five Rivers MetroParks with diverse audiences. Help enhance the visitor experience by greeting and welcoming park patrons, answering questions, and assisting staff at this activity station.

Impact

Program Support volunteers are critical in ensuring we can provide high-quality, engaging programming like "try it" activities to the public. 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

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

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

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

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

Program Support

**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.

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.

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.

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

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

Impact

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

Tasks  

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

Additional Notes:

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

Learn, grow, and give back to the trails you love with this exciting Service Saturday trail maintenance volunteer opportunity! Led by our knowledgeable staff, these trail maintenance opportunities will focus on revitalizing the trail systems at Cox Arboretum MetroPark. Learn alongside like-minded individuals on the whys and hows 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  

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

Additional Notes

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

We are seeking caring and compassionate individuals to join our team as Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteers, specifically to provide companionship to our Veteran patients. As a Veteran Companion Volunteer, you will offer emotional support, a listening ear, and a comforting presence to our patients.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Completion of a background check and volunteer training program provided by Care360 Hospice, the expenses of which are covered by our agency.

Benefits: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. Gain valuable experience in the hospice care field. Receive ongoing support and training from our hospice team. Join a community of compassionate and dedicated volunteers.

We are seeking caring and compassionate individuals to join our team as Hospice Volunteers, specifically to provide companionship to our patients. As a Companion Volunteer, you will offer emotional support, a listening ear, and a comforting presence to our patients during their final days.

Key Responsibilities:

Qualifications:

Must be at least 16 years old. Completion of a background check and volunteer training program provided by Care360 Hospice, the expenses of which are covered by our agency.

Benefits: Make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families. Gain valuable experience in the hospice care field. Receive ongoing support and training from our hospice team. Join a community of compassionate and dedicated volunteers.

M.A.S.H. is a non-profit organization that supports the veterans across central Ohio that is moving to a new site opening on May 1st at 540 Sunbury Rd. (east of the 36/37 merge behind the bowling alley - go into the bowling alley parking lot and follow to the building behind it). We provide food to active duty, veterans & their families and surviving spouses. We also provide a place for them to interact for camaraderie, building model planes, boats, trains, play cards, quilting, sewing, etc. We also provide greenhouses for veterans to grow food that will get handed out at the pantries. In addition, we host Potluck Breakfasts for various holidays and provide training on benefits for veterans. We are in need of personnel to help us receive, stock, pack and hand-out food to veterans, as well as greeters and people interested in aiding the veterans at the site.

This role is for someone to greet veterans when they arrive at the site.
Volunteers will need to sign up at our website - https://www.mashpantry.org/volunteers

M.A.S.H. is a non-profit organization that supports the veterans across central Ohio that is moving to a new site opening on May 1st at 540 Sunbury Rd. (east of the 36/37 merge behind the bowling alley - go into the bowling alley parking lot and follow to the building behind it).  We provide food to active duty, veterans & their families and surviving spouses.  We also provide a place for them to interact for camaraderie, building model planes, boats, trains, play cards, quilting, sewing, etc.   We also provide greenhouses for veterans to grow food that will get handed out at the pantries.  In addition, we host Potluck Breakfasts for various holidays and provide training on benefits for veterans.  We are in need of personnel to help us receive, stock, pack and hand-out food to veterans, as well as greeters and people interested in aiding the veterans at the site.

This role is to stock donations and prepare bags with foods to hand out to veterans.

Volunteers will need to sign up at our website - https://www.mashpantry.org/volunteers

M.A.S.H. is a non-profit organization that supports the veterans across central Ohio that is moving to a new site opening on May 1st at 540 Sunbury Rd. (east of the 36/37 merge behind the bowling alley - go into the bowling alley parking lot and follow to the building behind it). We provide food to active duty, veterans & their families and surviving spouses. We also provide a place for them to interact for camaraderie, building model planes, boats, trains, play cards, quilting, sewing, etc. We also provide greenhouses for veterans to grow food that will get handed out at the pantries. In addition, we host Potluck Breakfasts for various holidays and provide training on benefits for veterans. We are in need of personnel to help us receive, stock, pack and hand-out food to veterans, as well as greeters and people interested in aiding the veterans at the site.

This role is to hand out bags of food to the veterans on Saturdays.

Volunteers will need to sign up at our website - https://www.mashpantry.org/volunteers

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Help plant, maintain, and harvest seed from the native plants in the nursery. All tools and training provided. 

Weed and spread mulch at our Ravenna offices along with our staff to beautify the property for our clients.

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!

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.  

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.

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!

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. 

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

This opportunity is open to teens and adults (ages 14 and older), Long-Term, and Short-Term volunteers.

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

Would you like to usher a symphony concert at Gray Chapel in Ohio Wesleyan University on April 26?  Ushers need to report to Gray Chapel between 2-2:30 and wear white tops with black pants or skirts.

What is the Summer Bridge to Success Outreach? Research shows that students can lose about 20% to 30% of their school-year gains during the summer months.  To help combat the summer slide, the United Way of Greater Stark County is offering a resource for our Strong Neighborhoods, Strong Families partner schools.  Through generous donations from the community, United Way will be distributing over 400 Summer Bridge to Success Learning Kits, at the end of the school year to Kindergarteners.

Volunteers will work in assembly line fashion, placing items in bags to create kits. Each kit will include: a Summer Bridge Activity Workbook, a selection of healthy snacks, and other learning tools and resources as available. Volunteers will gather a greater understanding around the need and leave the event, understanding the positive impact these kits can have.

“When the next generation asks ‘What did you do when the biggest drug epidemic hit this country?’ we want to be able to say – and I think we will be able to say now – that we did something that no one had ever seen before.” -Navdeep S. Kang, PsyD, HSP, CGP

In 2023, Ohio ranked twelfth in the nation in drug overdose deaths. Mercy Health and AmeriCorps have partnered to build MERCY SERVES, a diverse, energetic, volunteer corps providing compassionate, patient-centered support in Mercy Health Emergency Departments across Southwest Ohio. Day-to-day, Mercy Serves members work alongside nurses, providers, social workers, and coordinate with community organizations to improve patients’ access to culturally competent care, treatment, and community resources. Mercy Serves members provide patient education, substance use and mental health risk screening, social  drivers of health screening, emotional support, and referrals to treatment and social services for Emergency Department patients. 

Mercy Serves is recruiting a class of 2 full-time and 18 half-time AmeriCorps members to serve an 11-month service term in 9 Mercy Health emergency departments in Cincinnati and Springfield.

The Mercy Serves Member will:

As an AmeriCorps program, this is a TEMPORARY, 11-month service position. Compensation is paid in the form of a bi-weekly living stipend and professional development training/opportunities. Member is eligible to receive education award upon completion of all service requirements.

Required Minimum Education: High School Diploma/GED with additional career experience

Preferred Education: 4 years/Bachelor’s Degree  in a relevant field (Public Health, Social Work Psychology, Sociology, Pre-Med, or similar); Community Health Worker certificate

Minimum Types Of Experience

As a Mercy Health associate, you're part of a Mission that matters. We support your well-being—personally and professionally. Our benefits are built to grow with you and meet your unique needs, every step of the way.

What we offer

Benefits may vary based on the market and employment status.

All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, genetic information, or protected veteran status, and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you'd like to view a copy of the affirmative action plan or policy statement for Mercy Health – Youngstown, Ohio or Bon Secours – Franklin, Virginia; Petersburg, Virginia; and Emporia, Virginia, which are Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employers, please email recruitment@mercy.com. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part of the employment selection process, please contact The Talent Acquisition Team at recruitment@mercy.com

Members will be placed at the following locations:

*Service schedule will be based on varying needs at each site.*

To apply, visit https://careers.mercy.com/, keyword "AmeriCorps".

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

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. 

Additional Notes

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.

Welcome to Sparkfest! Where students shine on the quad. Come enjoy activities, performances, installations, and demonstrations from every division in the CCA, all in one place! Sparkfest 2026 will be on Friday, April 17, 2026, in the courtyard outside of the Center for Performing Arts.

Position Descriptions: 

Event Staffer: Help with activities and guide attendees

Crew: Carry tables, set up chairs, fill water coolers, etc.

Stage Hands: manage stage operations, switch out equipment as needed

Sign up here: Sparkfest 2026

Welcome to Sparkfest! Where students shine on the quad. Come enjoy activities, performances, installations, and demonstrations from every division in the CCA, all in one place!

Sparkfest 2026 set up will be on Thursday April 16, 2026, in CPA 144

Sign up here: Sparkfest 2026

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.

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.

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

Join us for a second springtime Habitat Heroes program, sponsored by the Friends of the Wood County Park District! Work with our stewardship department to become a hero for the environment and create a more sustainable and quality habitat. During this project, invasive buckthorn will be cut from the park. Tools and instructions (and snacks!) will be provided. 

Pull weeds, deadhead flowers, mulch flower beds and add wood chips to play areas.

We are creating postcards and greeting cards with messages of care and honor to remind recipients that they are not alone and have the "Right To Heal".  Cards will be mailed to victims and survivors of crime or placed in our We Care Hope & Kindness Bags.    

Assist the Communications Department in marketing, graphic design, wayfinding, office work, scrap-booking, archival work and so much more! 

This is an on-going volunteer log, just record any volunteer hours that fit under this criteria here!

We will be completing a trash cleanup service event at Peffer Park on Arbor Day to help keep our nature trails clean! Happy Earth Week!

We will provide all needed materials for the event (gloves, bags, etc.). Wear appropriate clothes and shoes for the trails.

Here is our event link on the HUB: https://miamioh.campuslabs.com/engage/event/12389594

Would you like to be a part of preserving a sustainable and natural habitat around the Stillwater River in the Miami Valley? A partnership between Five Rivers MetroParks, Aullwood Audubon Farm and Center, and the Garden Club of Dayton, this project preserves John and Marie Aull’s vision to unite local conservation efforts. This activity is a collaborative, annual event in April supporting Ohio Native Plant Month.

To preserve the diversity of habitats, parklands are carefully managed to preserve and protect native plant and wildlife communities of the Miami Valley. Non-native, invasive species compete with or eliminate native plant species and can be controlled by pulling, cutting, and removing them from the area.  Volunteer support helps to expand our efforts in protecting our region's natural heritage. 

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

This opportunity is open to teens and adults (ages 14 and older), Long-Term, Short-Term, and Public volunteers.

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

Join us in bringing the RiverScape Summer Music Series to life! This program showcases a wide variety of FREE live concerts under the pavilion at RiverScape MetroPark. We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help create an unforgettable experience for our community. Volunteer Ambassadors will offer excellent customer service to park visitors and help them build awareness of all the incredible amenities that MetroParks offers to community members. 

As a Volunteer Ambassador, you’ll play a key role in sharing your passion for Five Rivers MetroParks with a diverse audience of concertgoers. Your energy and friendliness will help set the tone for each evening!

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

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

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

Historic Interpreter

Visitor Center Ambassador: Cox Arboretum

Donate your unwanted clothes before move-out this spring! 

Donation box will be located in the Wilks Institute for Leadership and Service (Armstrong 2018)

Clothing will be donated to ThreadUp Oxford and the Matthew 25 Ministries Disaster Relief Program

Donate your unwanted clothes before move-out this spring! 

Donation boxes will be located in:

The Rec Center

King Library

The Wilks Institute for Leadership and Service (Armstrong 2018)

Clothing will be donated to ThreadUp Oxford and the Matthew 25 Ministries Disaster Relief Program

Stop by the Wilks Institute (ASC 2018) to complete a service hour during the week of May 4th! Come in any time 9am-5pm to engage in one of the activities listed below.

Students are only allowed to complete 1 project (1 service hour) for this opportunity.

We will have:

- Craft kit, bracelet and keychain making for kids!

- Card writing and decorating for Talawanda School District elementary and middle school teachers (must make 10)!

- Online and remote opportunities!

Stop by the Wilks Institute (ASC 2018) to complete a service hour during the week of April 27th! Come in any time 9am-5pm to engage in one of the activities listed below.

Students are only allowed to complete 1 project (1 service hour) for this opportunity.

We will have:

- Card writing and decorating for Talawanda School District elementary and middle school teachers (must make 10)!

- Paper Flower making for Mini University preschool teachers!

- Online and remote opportunities!

Help us make this FREE kids show a success with setup, teardown, helping vendors, and manning the snack bar (must be 21) or information booth.  

Sign up here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050C4EA4A629A2FA7-63294813-interactive#/

Join us for the 2026 Music Festival one of two evenings.  Help with setup, teardown, greeting patrons, collecting donations or assisting with the bar.  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050C4EA4A629A2FA7-63243691-copy#/

Join us for the 2026 Music Festival one of two evenings.  Help with setup, teardown, greeting patrons, collecting donations or assisting with the bar.  https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050C4EA4A629A2FA7-63243135-delaware#/

Come package water soluble confetti for Miami Grads and complete some service with ASG, The office of Sustainability, and the Wilks Institute! Alex Miller from Sustainability will lead this activity to spread awareness and help make a change in our environment.