Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Effie Yeaw Nature Center!
Volunteer applications are currently on pause as our team is in the height of our Spring season programs. Please check back in April when we begin to schedule orientations and training dates.
Volunteer Opportunities
Explore some of our most popular volunteer opportunities below. Please note that availability may vary and some roles may not always be open.
Animal Care
Animal Care volunteers help care for our animals, including local birds, snakes, and insects. Duties include cleaning enclosures and preparing food for the animals. Volunteers must be comfortable handling a variety of animals. Minimum age: 16. While there are currently no openings, please check back for future opportunities.
Office Help
Office volunteers assist with various administrative tasks, such as data entry, organizing mailings, and handling paperwork. Opportunities may involve regular weekday shifts or occasional tasks, depending on needs.
Docent
Docents are nature enthusiasts who enjoy engaging with children. After completing training, you’ll commit to one to two mornings per week. Docents lead nature walks, sharing your knowledge of local plants, animals, and ecosystems. Volunteers should be comfortable walking on uneven trails for up to an hour. Extensive training is provided.
Receptionists
Receptionists are the friendly faces that greet visitors at the Nature Center. You’ll share information about our museum, trails, and programs, and assist with shop purchases, park passes, and memberships. The time commitment is one shift per week. Shifts are available Tuesday through Sunday, both mornings and afternoons.
Habitat Restoration
Join a dedicated team of volunteers working on habitat restoration in our Nature Study Area. Tasks include removing non-native plants, planting native species, monitoring monarch butterflies, conducting tree surveys, and protecting young trees. There are both set workdays and ongoing volunteer opportunities.
Repairs & Maintenance
Our repairs and maintenance team helps with small repairs, painting, carpentry, and other maintenance tasks that keep our center and grounds beautiful and running smoothly. These crucial behind-the-scenes efforts ensure our exhibits are safe and our facilities are welcoming for every visitor.
Trail Stewards
Trail Stewards help maintain the safety and enjoyment of our trails. Responsibilities include monitoring for hazards, engaging with visitors to share points of interest, and informing them about trail rules (e.g., no bikes or dogs except service animals). Hours are flexible.