About the Portland Parks & Recreation Volunteer Program
Welcome to the Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) volunteer hub!
You’ll find a variety of programs and volunteer opportunities on this site, ranging from one-time events to ongoing roles. Browse the listings and sign up for what interests you. Once you create an account, it’s easy to sign up for future opportunities, message volunteer coordinators, and track your hours. You can also store completed requirements, like background checks and training, to make it easier to sign up in the future.
Be sure to set up your profile and opt in to receive messages from staff, so you never miss important updates about your volunteer roles.
Volunteer Opportunities
Portland Parks & Recreation offers a wide range of volunteer roles. Many take place outdoors in parks, natural areas, community gardens, or rose gardens. Some opportunities will have you working side by side with neighbors, while others allow you to set your own schedule and volunteer independently. Volunteers often build new skills, teach skill to others, and play a vital role in caring for Portland’s parks. For some, volunteering is the first step to becoming employed by PP&R or one of our partner organizations. While all roles on this site are volunteer only, you can visit our job board for paid opportunities.
Interested in organizing a group project? Fill out our Group Interest Form.
Need to fulfill court-ordered community service hours? Fill out our Court-Ordered Community Service Application.
Want to fulfill volunteer hours for school? Many opportunities on this site can help fulfill those requirements. Use the “Interest” filter and select “School Service Hours.” When logging your hours, check the box indicating school service hours.
Our Values
At Portland Parks & Recreation, our volunteers help bring our values to life.
We are committed to equity and anti-racism, recognizing the need to acknowledge past harms and work toward a more just and inclusive parks and recreation system. As stewards of Portland’s natural and public spaces, we care for ecosystems and community places so they remain healthy and resilient for generations.
We believe everyone should feel safe and welcome in Portland's parks and programs. Through transparency, accountability, and connection, we listen to community needs and work in partnership to support a thriving, inclusive Portland.
To learn more about our commitment to equity, please visit Equity and Inclusion | Portland.gov.
Your Privacy
We respect your privacy and do not share volunteer contact information or personal details with other organizations, businesses, or individuals without your permission. This practice ensures that volunteer data remains confidential and is used solely for purposes directly related to involvement with Portland Parks & Recreation.
An exception may occur if a formal public records request is made to the City of Portland. Learn more about the City’s public records policy: HRAR-1.03 - Public Records Information, Access and Retention | Portland.gov
Help Resources
- Portland Parks & Recreation Volunteer Information and Events
- Documents and Files for Volunteering
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How to Use the Get Connected Website for Volunteers
- Jobs with Portland Parks & Recreation
- Friends and Partners of Portland Parks & Recreation
- Volunteer Newsletter Sign Up
Contact Us
Email: Volunteer.Services@PortlandOregon.gov
Phone: 503-823-5121
