VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

The 4-H Club Activity Leader helps plan and run fun, focused club activities (like community service, fundraisers, social events, or safety and health projects) by organizing details, gathering materials, and keeping families in the loop. They also guide youth helpers and committees so 4-H members can learn by doing and reflect on what they gained from each activity.

When: Variable.

Where: Variable.

Learn more: florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/get-involved/volunteer/

Next step(s): Contact 4H@scgov.net for next steps, and we'll be happy to help!

The Community Club Organizational Leader is a primary club volunteer leader who keeps a 4-H club running smoothly—setting annual goals with youth, coordinating meetings and events, supporting youth officers, and helping members get enrolled and choose projects. They also serve as the primary contact for Extension staff and make sure volunteers are screened, supported, and communicating well across the club.

When: Variable.

Where: Variable.

Learn more: florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/get-involved/volunteer/

Next step(s): Contact 4H@scgov.net for next steps, and we'll be happy to help!

The County 4-H Project Leader teaches and mentors youth in a specific project area by leading hands-on workshops, helping members set goals, and supporting them as they complete their project work. They also encourage parents and junior leaders to help, promote showcases like exhibits or demonstrations, and keep members informed about project-related opportunities and best practices.

When: Variable.

Where: Variable.

Learn more: florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/get-involved/volunteer/

Next step(s): Contact 4H@scgov.net for next steps, and we'll be happy to help!

The General Office Volunteer supports the 4-H office team with day-to-day tasks like organizing materials, preparing mailings, helping with paperwork, and pitching in with event prep behind the scenes. They help keep things running smoothly so staff and volunteers can focus more time on supporting youth and programs.

When: Variable.

Where: UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.

Learn more: florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/get-involved/volunteer/

Next step(s): Contact 4H@scgov.net for next steps, and we'll be happy to help!

The One-Time Event Volunteer helps out at a specific 4-H event—like judging projects, pitching in at the fair, or giving a hand at a workshop or contest. It's an easy, flexible way to support kids and families for a few hours and help the event go smoothly.

When: Variable.

Where: Variable.

Learn more: florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/get-involved/volunteer/

Next step(s): Contact 4H@scgov.net for next steps, and we'll be happy to help!

A Master Gardener Volunteer (MGV) completes University of Florida-designed pre-service training weekly over 4 months in a grouped cohort to then serve as a volunteer horticulture educator, sharing research-based gardening and environmental stewardship information with the community. Within the first year, trainees must complete 75 hours of volunteer service to earn the title of Master Gardener Volunteer. To remain active in subsequent years, volunteers commit annually to 50 service hours and 15 continuing education units.

When: Some daytime availability needed to receive required training and support program needs.

Where: Available county-wide, once training and initial volunteer year is completed; First year most hours and training are completed at UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension in Twin Lakes Park. The multi-month training for new cohorts is typically offered annually.

Learn more: sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota/gardening-and-landscaping/horticulture-residential/master-gardener/

Next step(s): If you would like to be added to the waitlist for future training, please contact program assistant Kayla Kennedy, at kkennedy@scgov.net.

Are you handy or have skills such as carpentry, irrigation, or small equipment maintenance that you'd like to use to benefit the community? If you enjoy problem-solving, following project guidance, and working safely to support projects at community, school, or demonstration gardens, you may be the perfect fit we're looking for.

When: Variable.

Where: Many gardens throughout the county, so finding one near you is likely.

Learn more: sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota/gardening-and-landscaping/gardens/community-gardens/

Next step(s): Contact Gardens Program Coordinator Mindy Hanak at mhanak@scgov.net or call 941-396-0900.

Are you available from late spring through early fall to help support community, school, and demonstration gardens during their busiest seasons? We welcome committed volunteers who can assist at least twice monthly for one-hour sessions with weeding by hand, general upkeep, planting or watering cover crops, covering beds, and other tasks. Note that this volunteer role often requires working in Florida heat (with appropriate hydration and rest breaks). Limited to those 18 years or older.

When: Greatest need: May through early October. Summer availability appreciated.

Where: Many gardens throughout the county, so finding one near you is likely.

Learn more: sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota/gardening-and-landscaping/gardens/

Next step(s): Contact Gardens Program Coordinator Mindy Hanak at mhanak@scgov.net or call 941-396-0900.

Interesting in supporting school gardens? Some opportunities to garden alongside youth may be available for volunteers with consistent daytime availability. Adaptability and clear communication are essential to collaborate effectively with busy teachers. The garden coordinator can help match you with a site to assess fit, after which any required higher-level background checks must be completed before volunteering. Teachers and school site leads will remain the supervisors of the youth.

When: Daytime availability during the school year.

Where: Many school/youth gardens throughout the county, so finding one near you is likely.

Learn more: sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasota/gardening-and-landscaping/gardens/school-gardens/

Next step(s): Contact Gardens Program Coordinator Mindy Hanak at mhanak@scgov.net or call 941-396-0900.

Volunteering with the Ecology and Natural Resources Program provides an opportunity to inspire and educate youth throughout Sarasota County to appreciate and protect local wildlife while gaining valuable knowledge of local ecology. Volunteers support youth and family environmental education programs by assisting with program setup and cleanup and assisting with or leading hands-on activities. May include field trips, summer camp programs, or public programs. Applicants must be age 21 or up. Level 2 DCF background screening is required.

When: Variable. If volunteering for school field trips, 9a to 1p Wednesday through Friday availability is required for at least four field trips per season (November through February and/or March through May).

Where: Variable. School field trips take place at Myakka River State Park and Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center.

Learn more: The LIFE Program is our largest volunteer opportunity. These hands-on, outdoor, science-learning field trips serve fourth and fifth grade students. Learn more at blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/sarasotaco/2025/07/10/learning-in-floridas-environment/.

Next step(s): To indicate interest, please complete the Ecology and Natural Resources Program volunteer interest form: ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ePpkhvIYGySB2ce.

Volunteering with the Ecology and Natural Resources Program provides an opportunity to inspire and educate adults throughout Sarasota County to appreciate and protect local wildlife while gaining valuable knowledge of local ecology. Opportunities include tabling and community outreach, nature and event photography, administrative support, or leading educational tours (experience required) in Sarasota County's parks and preserves. This position does not work with youth.

When: Variable (events often are on weekends).

Where: Variable.

Learn more: Learn more: Ecology and Natural Resources — About the Program (pdf)

Next step(s): To indicate interest, please complete the Ecology and Natural Resources Program volunteer interest form: ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ePpkhvIYGySB2ce.

An Energy Coach volunteer makes a direct impact by teaching adults and youth practical energy and water saving tips, distributing resource kits at community events, and guiding residents through simple home upgrades that reduce energy and water use. This role is well suited for community minded individuals who enjoy connecting with others and want to help Sarasota County households live more sustainably and save money at home.

When: Variable.

Where: Variable.

Learn more: energyupgradetoday.com

Next step(s): Learn more and view upcoming Energy Coach training dates at energyupgradetoday.com or email sustainablesarasota@scgov.net.

A Sustainability Program Support Volunteer helps build community resilience by assisting with workshops, sharing resources at local community events, and supporting the daily operations of the Sustainability team. The role may also include administrative tasks and preparing for the annual Sustainable Community Workshop, making it a great fit for community‑minded individuals who want to promote sustainable living.

When: Variable.

Where: Variable.

Learn more: scgov.net/government/sustainability/sustainability

Next step(s): The Sustainability Program welcomes new volunteers year-round. To learn about our sustainability projects and programs, visit our Sustainability website. To start volunteering with our team, email sustainablesarasota@scgov.net.