Volunteer at Our Parks

Do you want to join a tree planting event?  Email trees@syr.gov for more information. 

Want to help make our parks beautiful? We need help weeding, mulching, and planting flowers. Contact Grounds Superintendent Casey Cregg calling 315-473-4330, or emailing ccregg@syrgov.net. 

Volunteer for a youth program

What are the requirements?

To be a youth volunteer, you must complete the application(PDF, 77KB) and get a background check. If you're accepted, you'll also need to go to orientation and - in some cases - do some additional training.

What programs can I volunteer for?

Work at a summer sports camp

We accept 1 to 2 volunteer camp counselors age 14 and older for each of our summer lacrosse, soccer, track & field, and basketball camps. You can apply from April 1 to May 31 to be a counselor for that summer.

Contact:
Phone: 315-473-4300
Email:

Become a youth basketball coach

Our Junior A.C.T.I.O.N League takes place from November to January. We need volunteer coaches to teach basketball and to help players learn life skills like sportsmanship.

Contact: Jesse Brantley
Phone: 315-473-4330 ext. 3035
Email: jbrantley@syrgov.net

Help kids with homework

Homework volunteers help kids and teens ages 7 to 13 do their homework at our after-school programs at city schools. Homework sessions happen between 3:30 and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday when school is in session. After school programs are offered at:

  • Kirk Park
  • Wilson Park
  • McChesney Park
  • Schiller Park
  • Ed Smith School

Contact:
Phone: 315-473-4330
Email:

Propose your own idea for a youth program

We're always interested in ideas for new programs. In addition to filling out the general volunteer application, please submit a proposal that includes:

  • The name of your program and it's objective,
  • A description of your program, including who the program is for and what supplies you need, and
  • Program dates, location, and time.

How do I apply to volunteer for a youth program?

Just fill out the volunteer application(PDF, 77KB) and mail the completed form to:

Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Programs
412 Spencer Street
Syracuse, NY 13204

Once we receive your application, we'll review it and contact you if we have any open spots within 2 to 4 weeks.

If you're approved, you'll need to do a background check. Parents or guardians will need to help youth applying to be volunteers complete their background check.

  

 

Back to top