There are many volunteer opportunities at Parks Operations Division which can range from trail restoration to painting fire hydrants, from graffiti removal to any number of tasks to enhance City parks.  Individual citizens, Scouts, as well as church and other service groups frequently perform park projects.  Projects can range from one-time events to ongoing park assistance. 

Some types of projects include raking leaves, picking up litter, painting fire hydrants, placing hog fuel on paths or under play equipment, as well as many other tasks. Organized events such as Make a Difference Day, Down by the Riverside, and Arbor Day activities are listed in the City-wide newsletter, Community Connection. "Between July 2, 2008, and June 30, 2009, a record number of 175,129 volunteer and supplemental labor hours were reported to Parks Operations, which is equivalent to an additional 84 full-time employees.  Parks Operations is able to maintain maintenance standards thanks to the dedication of these volunteers."

If you are interested in making a difference in a City park, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, at 503-589-2197 or talarson@cityofsalem.net and begin making a difference today.

Watch a cool video of some of our city-wide volunteers and what they do for our community!