🌿Volunteer with us! Help Build Healthy, Sustainable, and Enriching Communities🌿

Mission: “To provide healthy, sustainable, and enriching environments for all.”
Vision: “To connect all to the City’s diverse world class park system.”

City of San Diego Parks and Recreation Department are in search of individuals passionate about parks, people, and wanting to make a difference in the community. Join the team of dedicated volunteers and be part of something meaningful.

Enthusiastic individuals needed to support a variety of community and park enhancement projects. Volunteers could be working outdoors, engaging with the public, or helping behind the scenes.  There’s a place for everyone.

Volunteer Opportunities Include:

• Community clean-up and beautification events
• Support of recreational programing and youth sports
• Tree planting and sustainability initiatives
• Outreach at local events and festivals

Why Volunteer?

✅ Make a positive impact in the community
✅ Connect with nature and neighbors
✅ Gain valuable experience and skills
✅ Support a greener, healthier San Diego

Lets get started, Volunteer Here

Interested in volunteering with the City of San Diego's Parks and Recreation Department? There are many volunteer opportunities that may fit your interests or unique skills. Below are volunteer opportunities currently available:

Community Center Volunteer Opportunities:

• Central San Diego Community
• Clairemont Mesa Community
• Coastal Community
• Downtown Community
• East San Diego Community
• Mission Bay Community
• North San Diego Community
• South Bay Community
• South Central Community
• Southeast San Diego Community

Park Ranger District Volunteer Opportunities:

• Balboa Park
• Chollas Lake
• Mission Bay Park
• Mission Trails Regional Park
• North City Park Ranger District
• Open Space Canyons
• Otay Valley Regional Park
• Presidio Park
• San Diego River Park
• Shoreline Parks
• Tecolote Nature Center and Tri-Canyon

Specialized Volunteer Opportunities:

• AgeWell Services
• Aquatics
• Golf Operations
• Therapeutic Recreation Services

Not finding what you're looking for?
Register through the links below and let us know what roles interest you 

• Volunteer Page   |    Group Volunteers 

Need to complete court ordered community service? Complete an application to schedule your hours.

• Court Ordered Community Service Page

What if I want to help in my own community?

Volunteers can also become members of Community Recreation Groups throughout the City. These volunteers donate their time to attend monthly meetings where decisions are made concerning area specific needs regarding programs, activities, special events and park enhancements. 

For more information: Community Recreation Group

What's the minimum age for volunteering?

The minimum age to volunteer is 13 years. Participants under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent, adult guardian, teacher, or adult group leader.

How do I get fingerprinted?

Call 619-236-6686 to schedule an appointment with Personnel Department. 
Bring this completed form, Volunteer fingerprint form, and a valid government issued photo identification card to the appointment. 

Are there legal requirements for volunteering?

All volunteers (including minors 13 to 17 years of age) working with minors, seniors and persons with disabilities are required by state law to be fingerprinted and cleared by the Department of Justice.
 

Not all volunteer opportunities require fingerprint clearance.

How do I apply?

Simply click, Volunteer here to go to the volunteer registration page.

Can I volunteer alone?

Yes, there are opportunities for groups and individuals.

How do I apply as a group?

Please fill out the following form, Volunteer group form.

Can I complete court mandated community service hours here?

Yes, complete an application to schedule your hours: Court Ordered Community Service Page

What should I bring?

• Closed toed shoes and appropriate comfortable clothes that are appropriate for the service project.
• Long pants and long sleeves may be required for some projects. Contact supervisor for more details.
• Recommended to bring a water bottle, hat and sunscreen as many events are held outdoors.

How do I use Better Impact?

Email the Parks and Recreation Volunteer Office at SDVolunteer@sandiego.gov  for Better Impact support.

How do I get more information?

Email the Parks and Recreation Volunteer Office at SDVolunteer@sandiego.gov .