Is there any type of commitment to the number of projects I must sign up for per year?

I’ve never done this type of work. Will I receive training?

Do I have to sign up, or can I just show up for a project?

Can I sign up my entire family?

Can a student volunteer for community service?

I notice the projects run from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. If needed, can I leave early?

What do I do if it is raining the morning of the event?

Once I sign up for a project, how do I know where to meet, what to bring, etc?

What if I can’t make a project I have signed up for and have to cancel?

Is there any type of commitment to the number of projects I must sign up for per year?
No; there is no commitment to the number of projects you must attend. There are 3-5 projects scheduled each month. You can sign up for as many as you like.

I’ve never done this type of work. Will I receive training?
There is no experience necessary to participate in these projects. In fact, one of the primary goals of this program is to teach visitors the many aspects of maintaining the trails and preserves. District staff and volunteer crew leaders provide all project instructions and training (including safety). We also provide all tools.

Do I have to sign up, or can I just show up for a project?
You must sign up before the project. All projects have a “maximum number of volunteers” limit. Group sizes range from 8 to 25, depending on the project type, parking limitations, staffing issues, and other factors. If a project is full, a waiting list will be implemented.

Can I sign up my entire family?
You bet— as long as there are enough spots available. You can also sign up friends and/or coworkers. For most projects, 14 is the minimum age to participate; however, winter and spring planting projects are usually suitable for younger children. Please contact us for details regarding signing up children for projects.

Can a student volunteer for community service?
Yes, however all minors, under the age of 18, must be accompanied by a parent/adult for the duration of any volunteer project (note: minors who can drive themselves to a project may attend alone as long as they provide a signed liability waiver, coordinated with staff, in advance of the start of the project).
No minor children may NOT be dropped off at a project. If you arrive at a project with your child and cannot attend yourself, your child will not be allowed to participate by themselves.

I notice the projects run from 9:30 am to 2:00/2:30 pm. If needed, can I leave early?
It is okay to leave early from some projects; please inform the staff person during the morning orientation. You will need to stay for the entire project if there is a shuttle to the location.  Please check the project description for full details. In addition, some projects end early due to high temperatures, rain, or other factors.

What do I do if it is raining the morning of the event?
Call the Project Update Line: (650) 691-2150 Ext 4 (after 7:45 am). Heavy rain conditions will cancel the event; however, most projects can proceed under occasional light rain/overcast conditions. Safety is, as always, the deciding factor. If weather conditions are marginal, District staff will make a decision on the status of the project and post a message on the Project Update Line by 7:45 am, the morning of the event.

Once I sign up for a project, how do I know where to meet, what to bring, etc?
Each participant will receive a Project Details Email 7 - 10 days prior to the event which provide all the details regarding your project.

What if I can’t make a project I have signed up for and have to cancel?
We realize things come up at the last minute. If you are unable to make a project you have signed up for, please try to give us at least 24 hours notice as there are often people on a waiting list. Contact the Volunteer Program Lead as soon as you know you will be unable to attend a project.