SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER FOR PARKS AND RECREATION

Volunteering is good for you and great for the community. The Parks and Recreation Department provides a variety of opportunities for individuals and groups to volunteer year-round on a one-time or regular basis.

To apply to volunteer for Parks & Rec or the Adult Community Center please fill out our online application.

Becoming a Volunteer

Interview and Orientation

Your training and job schedule will be based on the opportunities available as well as your interests and availability.

Volunteer Program

Volunteers are so valuable to our success. We strive to make your gift of time and talent a rewarding experience through the following goals:

• To recognize each volunteer’s efforts through expressions of appreciation.
• To provide opportunities for volunteers to learn as much as possible about the organization’s policies and programs.
• To place each volunteer in a position best utilizing their skills and in which they are most comfortable.
• To provide opportunity for growth and greater responsibility with helpful training and guidance.

For further information, please call Parks and Recreation at 503-557-4700.

Physical Requirements

We require that volunteers have the physical requirements necessary to properly complete tasks without staff assistance. These may include bending, squatting, reaching, lifting. Please consider your ability to meet the requirements of the volunteer position and ask the Volunteer Specialist for further details about the duties at orientation if you are concerned you cannot meet these requirements.

Job Descriptions

Invasive Removal & Restoration

Noxious weeds are a constant threat to the native plant and wildlife who call the parks home. The majority of the English ivy, Herb Robert, garlic mustard are pulled by hand to avoid the use of herbicides. Adopt-a-Park is a program to The Parks Department partners with SOLVE host regular work parties at several parks. Volunteers are invited from 9 am – noon at Mary S. Young 1st Saturday of the month and Burnside and Maddax Woods Park on the 3rd Saturday of the month. Registration for these work days is through the SOLVE website. Native restoration workers should wear weather appropriate clothing (warm, waterproof, long sleeved, work gloves and sturdy footwear) typically tools, gloves, water/coffee and snacks provided.

"The single most important thing citizens can do to protect the trees in West Linn is to continue the fight against ivy." -  Mike Perkins, West Linn City Arborist

Beautification

Most parks have planter beds around the park signs. Volunteers may assist with the upkeep of these beauty spots by cutting back overgrown areas, weeding, and by  planting annuals. West Linn is a Bee City, USA with two pollinantor habitat gardens, one at Marylhurst Heights Park and the newest at Mary S. Young Park. These areas, in particular, are free of pesticide and require manual weeding. 

Trails

Walking is a popular exercise for community members of all ages and pet owners. Well maintained trails make walking enjoyable and accessible year round. Trail volunteers are rewarded with fresh air and the satisfaction of performing demanding physical work. Contact John Linman for dates and times at Mary S. Young Park linmanjo@hotmail.com or 503-636-0134.  Tools and materials provided.

Mascot

If you love to entertain and ever dreamed of being a mascot, here is your chance! CoWL the Owl is the City of West Linn Mascot. He’s wise, the kids love him and he’s coming to an event near you! CoWL makes appearances at the Daddy Daughter Dance in June, the Street Dance in July, the Old Time Fair Parade, the Holiday Parade, and at the West Linn Library upon request for the summer reading program. Volunteers be aware you will become very warm if you take this assignment! 

Old Time Fair Committee

This is a fun committee for civic minded community members. This committee meets monthly and is responsible for planning and promoting the annual Street Dance and the West Linn Old Time Fair, celebrating 64 years in 2020. This three day event combines long beloved traditions like the Old Time Fair Court, parade, Lion Burgers and Lion Paws, and timber competition with new entertainment and activities making it worth attending every year!

Safety Town Leader

Safety Town is a week long day camp program for 4 – 6 year olds to learn important personal safety skills from professional speakers and volunteer leaders. Middle and High School students who have experience working with preschool age kids are invited to apply for this fun volunteer experience. It is a great opportunity to gain leadership skills, make friends and earn community service credit.

Applicaion Here! 

Fun in the Sun & Mini Campers Junior Counselor

The Fun in the Sun and Mini Campers Day Camp is a great place to gain work experience. Kids over 13 and under 18 complete a volunteer application, are interviewed by the camp director and receive their work schedule based on their availability and needs of the camp. 

Youth Basketball Coach

West Linn Parks and Recreation has a tremendous youth basketball program from 1st – 8th grade. This program would not be possible without volunteer coaches. For more information please click here.

Recreation Accessibility Assistant

On occasion, recreation participants benefit from one-on-one assistance to take part in a camp or class. Volunteers will work closely with the program supervisor and parent/caregiver to ensure they understand the needs of the individual. Adult volunteers, in this position, will be screened with a criminal background check. 

Adult Community Center Volunteer Jobs

The Adult Community Center is located at 1180 Rosemont Road and programmed for senior adult interests, Monday – Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. The center is staffed by Recreation Coordinators, Tiffany Carlson and Meghan Matthies. The center depends on a reliable crew of volunteers to provide excellent programs and events.

Adult Community Center Front Desk

The reception area is staffed by volunteers typically scheduled for either a morning (9 am – Noon) or afternoon shift (Noon – 3 pm). The front desk person serves as the initial contact to everyone entering the building and answers the phone. They provide a large variety of information about classes and services. They accept payments for classes and donations. Contact the front desk for more information, 503-557-4704.

Adult Community Center Kitchen

Kitchen helpers assist by setting tables, bussing and washing dishes.  Contact the front desk for more information, 503-557-4704 

Adult Community Center Drivers

If you are interested in driving for day trips and special outings please contact Tiffany Carlson at 503-557-4704.

Adult Community Center Instructors

Do you have an area of expertise you would like to share with others? A volunteer instructor may propose to lead an interest group, teach a course, or give a lecture or presentation.  Please submit a proposal to  Tiffany Carlson tcarlson@westlinnoregon.gov or call 503-557-4704.