Volunteer
Looking for a way to get involved in your community? We are always seeking groups, organizations and individuals to assist in a wide variety of activities, event and programs all year long.
Columbus Recreation and Parks is grateful for each volunteer that supports the city in creating positive life experiences for residents as they enjoy the community’s natural and recreational amenities.
Use this page to check out the variety of opportunities we offer!
Featured Opportunities
Fran Ryan Center Grand Opening: The new Fran Ryan Center is opening in Olde Towne East on Jan. 8! Volunteers are needed to help with preparations and the opening event.
Organizing at the Fran Ryan Center: Assist with unpacking and organizing supplies
- Monday, Jan. 6, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Monday, Jan. 6, 1-4 p.m.
- Tuesday, Jan. 7. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Tuesday, Jan. 7, 1-4 p.m.
Open House at The Fran Ryan Center: Help with refreshments and guide people around the building.
Adopt a Center Holiday Parties: Help set up, serve food, run activities and assist with cleanup.
VOLUNTEER WITH US
Opportunities for Individuals
Are you an individual looking for volunteer opportunities? Check out Volunteer Hub and sign up for our next event.
Opportunities for Organizations
Do you have a group looking to give back to the community? Fill out the Group Volunteer Request Form and we will work with you on a plan for your organization.
Contact Us
If you have questions about volunteering with Columbus Recreation and Parks, please email us.
OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES
Conservation: Volunteers are helping to maintain our nature preserves and pollinator gardens throughout Columbus.
Landscaping: Volunteers mulch and plant the landscaped areas throughout our 400+ parks.
Tree Planting: Volunteers can plant and track trees on their own property or coordinate with the city to plant trees.
Playground Clean-Ups: Volunteers assist with mulching our 280+ playgrounds and general park clean-up.
Litter Clean-Ups: In collaboration with Keep Columbus Beautiful, volunteers help us maintain our more than 400 parks!
SPORTS AND ATHLETICS
Coaching and Officiating: Each of our 29 community centers hosts sports leagues, and volunteering is a great way to help!
Golf Courses: Golf course attendants provide exceptional customer service to athletes providing information on the course and admitting golfers for their tee-times. View available volunteering opportunities.
SPECIALTY PROGRAMS
Counselors-In-Training (CIT): Designed for young people ages 13-17, the CIT program is a volunteer opportunity (including service hour credit) for select applicants to learn and gain experience with the department’s summer camp program.
Mobile Produce Markets: Weekly from February through December, our Food Office gives out hundreds of produce to local families in need. View available volunteering opportunities.
Therapeutic Recreation: This specialized program cultivates athletes with disabilities. Volunteers play a very important role, assisting athletes in sports blind soccer, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair basketball and seated boccia. View available volunteering opportunities.