Volunteer Projects
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Volunteer Projects
New York City’s natural areas are a vital resource for all New Yorkers. These park spaces capture rainwater, supply fresh air, and provide habitat for wildlife! In addition to the volunteer opportunities offered below, NYC Parks Stewardship provides communities with opportunities to care for our city’s forests, wetlands, salt marshes, and street trees throughout the year. Their volunteer events include planting trees and shrubs, removing invasive plants, plant protection, trail restoration, and street tree care that benefits all New Yorkers—animal and human alike.
Visit the NYC Parks Stewardship page to find out how you can volunteer for an event, or train to be an advanced volunteer!
Wednesdays, December 3 & 10
Team RIVER
Randall’s Island, Manhattan, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Help care for the many gardens, green streets, and meadows on the island. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by the Randall’s Island Park Alliance. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Fridays, December 5, 12, & 19
Forest Fridays
Van Cortlandt Park, Bronx, 10:00 a.m.
Volunteer to remove competing plant species from the Northwest Forest. Help promote biodiversity, protect young trees, and maintain trails. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by the Van Cortlandt Park Alliance. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Saturday, December 6
Park Restoration and Tour
Ecology Park, Brooklyn, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Volunteer and learn more about the forested areas in Ecology Park. Volunteers will contribute to ongoing restoration work and learn the importance of species diversity to ecosystem health. The event will include a tour of the park. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by NYC Parks Stewardship Team. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Shoreline Cleanup
Shirley Chisholm State Park, Brooklyn, 1:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.
Volunteer to help clean debris from the shoreline at the Penn Water Access Area. All materials provided. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by the Shirley Chisholm Environmental Education Team. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Thursday, December 11
Forest Planting
Bronx River Forest, Bronx, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Volunteer to help plant beneficial shrubs and trees. All tools will be provided. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by the Bronx River Alliance. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Friday, December 12
Park Restoration and Cleanup
Bush Terminal Park, Brooklyn, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Volunteer to protect wetland areas in Bush Terminal Park. Volunteers will help remove vegetation and debris in order to help restore the wetland and create a healthier ecosystem. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by NYC Parks Stewardship Team. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Saturday, December 13
Forest Restoration
Inwood Hill Park, Manhattan, 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.
Volunteer to protect forested areas in Inwood Hill Park. Volunteers will contribute to ongoing restoration work and learn the importance of species diversity to ecosystem health. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by NYC Parks Stewardship Team. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Tuesday, December 16
Forest Planting
Bronx River Forest, Bronx, 9:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Volunteer to help plant beneficial shrubs and trees. All tools will be provided. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by the Bronx River Alliance. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Ecology Team Meeting
Online program, 5:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m.
The Ecology Team is made up of scientists, local partner organizations, students, and community members who are interested in learning about and supporting the ecological health of the Bronx River. Everyone is welcome to bring their questions, ideas, or simply your curiosity. Program is hosted by the Bronx River Alliance. Please visit their website for more information.
Friday, December 19
Forest Restoration
Kissena Park, Queens, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Volunteer to protect forested areas in Kissena Park. Volunteers will contribute to ongoing restoration work and learn the importance of species diversity to ecosystem health. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by NYC Parks Stewardship Team. Please visit their website to register and for more information.
Saturday, December 20
Forest Restoration
Jones Woods Park, Staten Island, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Volunteer to protect forested areas in Jones Woods Park. Volunteers will contribute to ongoing restoration work and learn the importance of species diversity to ecosystem health. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Program is hosted by NYC Parks Stewardship Team. Please visit their website to register and for more information.