A volunteer program provides the means for the community to actively participate in activities and events in which they have an interest. It adds diversity to the jobs of the employees involved and to the lives of the volunteers, and it gains advocates for the City of Racine Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department. Volunteers offer their time and bring a can-do spirit to the community while they gain pride, knowledge and the satisfaction of a job well done. The partnership of volunteers and PRCS is a win-win situation for both parties.

We have volunteer positions with varying abilities and skill sets, and want our volunteers to feel they are helping in the best way needed.  See below for the ways you can become a volunteer!

Adopt a Park (formerly Adopt a River)

Adopt a Park is a free program, where adoptees agree to manage the removal of debris from the park.  The park includes any trails, green space, and parts of the river that are within the park parameters.  Parks can be adopted by families, organizations, or corporations. 

Adopt-A-Park Program

Tree Steward 

Due to the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, this program is not being offered at this time.  Please check back in Spring of 2022.

The Tree Steward program enables volunteers to assist the Forestry Department with the planting, pruning, overall care, and identifying trees of concern within the City of Racine limits.  Stewards receive training and an ID card to carry with them that identifies them as a Tree Steward with the City of Racine.  Stewards work alongside the City of Racine’s Forestry department on selected volunteer work days, and are able to address approved tasks independently.  

Friends Groups

Often communities of people who love a park or value a program have organized into nonprofit support organizations known as Friends Groups. These organizations raise funds to incubate and support innovative projects and initiatives, enhancing the experience of park visitors, connecting parks to people, restoring habitat, rehabilitating trails, supporting research efforts, and engaging young people in parks. This is just a sampling of the great work undertaken in partnership with Friends Groups..

Community Gardens

There are several community gardens throughout the city.  Individuals donate an annual fee to our partner, the Racine Urban Garden Network (RUGN) and in exchange, are given a plot to plant flowers, plants, fruits, or vegetables.  The individuals are responsible for maintaining and harvesting their plot.  Community gardens are a great way to assist your community while helping the environment.  

Community Centers/Special Events

There are programs and activities held at our community centers and several special events held throughout the year.  Volunteers assist with every aspect – coordination to set up and break down.  They are essential in making our activities and events a success!  

Coach

We currently have two youth sports programs that offer the opportunity to coach our youth in community.  Youth Softball (ages 4-12) and Youth Hoops Basketball League (grades 2-8).  Coaching is an excellent opportunity offering mentoring and being a positive influence in the lives of children in our community. 

Cemetery or North Beach Cleanup

There are scheduled days for cleaning up North Beach and the cemeteries.  We would love for you to join us!