Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need an account to respond to volunteer opportunities?
Yes. You must be logged in to respond to an opportunity. If you’re not logged in, a pop-up will prompt you to log in or create an account. Once you are logged in, you'll return to the opportunity information page to complete your sign-up for the role or event.
Creating an account lets you easily track your volunteering schedule and hours and stay in touch with volunteer managers. We don’t share your information or send spam.
How do I change my password?
You can change your password any time by clicking Forgot Password on the login page. Enter your email and Get Connected will send you a password reset link. Check out this Reset Password article for more information.
Is there training available for how to use this website?
While there isn't any formal training available, you'll find lots of articles and videos just for volunteers in the Volunteer section of the Get Connected Help Center!
Can I find and connect with other volunteers on this platform?
No. Your Connect experience is totally yours and there isn't a way to "friend" or connect with fellow site users.
How can I print and share my volunteer hours?
You can export your hours the Hours tab and your Volunteer Resume.
How do I stop receiving emails?
Volunteers can choose which emails they want to receive. Don't want to receive confirmations or reminders? Go to your Volunteer Profile to turn them off.
Here is more information about communication preferences.
Why do some volunteer roles require a background check?
To keep participants safe, some roles require a background check -- especially those involving children, older adults, or people with disabilities.
If your role requires a background check:
- You'll be asked to complete a consent form.
- Results are confidential and reviewed only by designated PP&R staff.
- Checks will typically take 1 to 3 business days.
Partner organizations and contractors must follow PP&R's background check policies as well.
Why do I need to track my hours?
Depending on which volunteer opportunity you signed up for, you may be responsible for entering your own volunteer hours.
Tracking volunteer hours helps us:
- Show the impact of your work and create a volunteer resume you can share with prospective employers, schools, or other organizations.
- Create reports showing the impact of our Parks' programming to the community which can help us advocate and plan for proper staffing, resource allocation, and funding for the future.
- Evaluate how well our volunteer programming meets our goals and commitments to the community.
- Address any gaps or areas needing improvement.
That said, we also value the quality of your experience, the connections and friendships built, and the communal benefits of working together to create accessibly, clean, and ecologically diverse parks!
Who do I contact for support?
For questions about a specific opportunity: Contact the site supervisor listed on the event page or click on the program to find the contact information.
For help with the website: Click Contact located at the bottom of any page. Or email Volunteer.Services@PortlandOregon.gov with any questions.
