ADULT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

We are looking for adult volunteers who are passionate about the environment and inspiring a love of science and nature in all ages.

We have many opportunities available for adult volunteers, and no prior teaching experience is necessary!

We offer flexible hours and locations so you can select the volunteer opportunities that work best for you; in the classroom, in nature or out in the community. There are opportunities for everyone at EV.

By becoming an adult volunteer you are joining a community of volunteers that has been growing for 50 years!

Read below for more information, or contact us at Volunteer@EnvironmentalVolunteers.org with any questions.

The EV organization is what every nonprofit should strive to be – effective, well-run, of highest integrity, and a beloved pillar in the communities it serves. I’m always delighted to tell people about the EV’s critically important work in teaching kids about science, the environment and conservation – something students simply do not get otherwise in schools.

Maria Amundson, former volunteer

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Volunteer in Schools

Are you passionate about science and nature? Do you enjoy inspiring children and working as part of a team? Environmental Volunteers has a role for you!

We’re looking for reliable, friendly volunteers to share their love of the natural world through our Nature Scientists School Programs with local elementary school students in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties. Working in teams of 3 or 4, Nature Scientists School Programs Volunteers engage directly with small groups of children in a classroom setting, involving them in hands-on, discovery-based learning.

VOLUNTEER ROLE:

This role is perfect for volunteers who are available during the school day. No previous experience is needed and training will be provided for all successful applicants. In the classroom, you will be supported by a team of other volunteers, and a teacher will always be present. We offer flexible hours, locations and subject matters, so you can select the opportunities and school locations that best fit your lifestyle.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:

  • Friendly disposition
  • Ability to work with children
  • Interest in science, nature, teaching, and environmental stewardship
  • Support for the EV’s mission to promote the understanding of and responsibility for the environment through hands-on science education
  • All volunteers 18 and over are required to complete a background check and complete a TB risk assessment as part of the onboarding process. They may also be asked to show proof of vaccination.

SERVICE COMMITMENT:

2 shifts per month during the school year or 18 volunteer services per year.

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VOLUNTEER AT THE EV ECOCENTER

Are you passionate about nature and the environment? Do you like engaging with the public, sharing knowledge, and promoting learning and stewardship?

We are looking for friendly adult volunteers who are excited to lead hands-on nature education programs for all ages at our EcoCenter in the Palo Alto Baylands and at community locations across Santa Clara and San Mateo counties.

VOLUNTEER ROLE:

This role is perfect for volunteers who are available weekends, afternoons and evenings. No previous experience is needed! We provide you with training and support throughout your service. EcoCenter and Community Programs Volunteers lead a variety of programs including after-school science programs, guided nature walks, and special events. Or, you can take on a more specialized role as an EcoCenter Docent or Foothills Nature Guide and share your knowledge of local ecology with visitors at Baylands or Foothills Nature Preserves.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS:

  • Friendly personality and great customer service skills
  • A passion for nature education and providing a high-quality visitor experience
  • Experience working with people from a wide range of ages and backgrounds
  • Support for the EV’s mission to promote the understanding of and responsibility for the environment through hands-on science education
  • All volunteers 18 and over are required to complete a background check as part of the onboarding process

SERVICE COMMITMENT:

1 shift per month or 9 volunteer services per year.

Fall Training Session – Teaching Techniques

Date October 13, 2026Time 10:00 am - 1:00 pmVenue EcoCenter

Our Fall Training Series for our Nature Scientists School Programs continues! For all current or in-progress volunteers. Click the Session Title above to see more details.

Volunteering Q&A Session

Date October 15, 2026Time 10:00 am - 11:00 amVenue EcoCenter

Love working with kids? Passionate about science and nature? Want to get involved? Come to our Volunteering Q&A sessions to learn more. Click the link above for details.