What if I want to help in my own community?

The Park and Recreation Department offers various volunteer opportunities at Recreation Centers, Golf Complexes, Swimming Pools, Regional Parks and Open Space Parks and Preserves. Opportunities include: youth sports coach, tour or trail guide, recreation program assistant, office assistant, volunteer park patrol and much more!

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 and special events. Call the recreation center nearest to you for more information on becoming a Community Recreation Group member.

Are there other volunteer opportunities in the City of San Diego?

Yes. For information about other volunteer opportunities within the City of San Diego, please visit the City of San Diego's Volunteer Page.

What's the minimum age for volunteering?

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

Are there legal requirements for volunteering?

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

Volunteers who are assisting with one day special events/projects maybe exempt from this requirement.

How do I get more information?

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