Volunteer FAQ for the City of Madison

Your most frequently asked questions answered by the Volunteer Services Team! Have a question you'd like to see answered and added to this list? Contact us at parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com or give us a call at #608-261-9179 

Getting Started

Q: What’s the best way to start volunteering with the City of Madison?
A: Visit our Create an Account page to create a profile. From there, you can explore opportunities across the city. When you’re ready, click “Respond” to sign up for an opportunity and complete any required qualifications.

Q: Do I need my own email address to register as a volunteer?
A: Yes, each volunteer needs a unique email address to set up and maintain a Get Connected account.

Programs and Opportunities

Q: What types of volunteer opportunities are available?
A: We offer a wide range of opportunities, including:

• Environmental projects (e.g., invasive species removal, seed collection, waterway cleanups)
• Supporting events (e.g., Ride the Drive, community festivals)
• Community engagement (e.g., mentoring, neighborhood cleanups)
• Administrative support (e.g., data entry, communications)

Q: Can I volunteer as part of a group?
A: Yes! Many opportunities are group-friendly. You can also request a private group opportunity for your team, workplace, or organization. Contact us to learn more.

Q: Are there opportunities for families or youth?
A: Absolutely! Many opportunities are family-friendly, and you can filter by age-appropriate activities on the Get Connected portal.

Q: Do you offer internships?
A: While we don’t offer internships through the volunteer program, individual city departments may have internship opportunities. Check department-specific pages or contact them directly.

Qualifications and Training

Q: Do I need a background check to volunteer?
A: Background checks are required for certain roles, such as those working with vulnerable populations or handling sensitive information. These roles will specify this requirement in their descriptions.

Q: How do I complete my qualifications?
A: Log in to Get Connected and navigate to the “Qualifications” section of your profile. Follow the steps to complete any outstanding requirements. If you need assistance, contact us at:  parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com

Q: What training is available for volunteers?
A: We offer some online training resources through the Get Connected Volunteer Training Library. In-person trainings are held throughout the year for roles requiring additional skills or equipment certifications. Check the Training and Events section for upcoming opportunities.

Volunteer Service

Q: Do I need to bring my own tools or supplies?
A: No, all necessary tools and equipment will be provided unless otherwise noted in the opportunity description. Volunteers should bring weather-appropriate clothing, water, and any personal items like sunscreen or bug spray.

Q: Can I just show up without signing up?
A: We ask that all volunteers register for opportunities in advance through Get Connected to ensure we have the right resources and support available for everyone. 

Q: How do I track my volunteer hours?
A: Log into Get Connected, go to your dashboard, and select “Track Hours” or “Log Hours.” Keeping accurate records helps us measure your impact and secure funding for programs.

Recognition and Support

Q: How are volunteers recognized?
A: We celebrate volunteers through appreciation events, feature stories in newsletters, and thank-you messages from staff. Logging your hours ensures you’re eligible for recognition programs.

Q: Why is tracking hours important if I don’t need credit?
A: Your recorded hours help us demonstrate the impact of volunteer service across the city, which supports funding, grant applications, and program improvements.

Additional Information

Q: What if I want to volunteer for the highest-need opportunities?
A: Visit the “High Priority Needs” section on Get Connected (When Available) to view roles and events where volunteers are urgently needed.

Q: Can employees of the City of Madison volunteer?
A: Yes! Employees can volunteer for public events and roles outside their paid job responsibilities.

Q: How can I stay updated about new opportunities?
A: Enable email notifications in your Get Connected profile to receive updates about roles matching your interests.

Q: Do I have to be a resident of Madison to volunteer?

A: You do not have to be a resident of City of Madison to volunteer for MOST roles.  However, there are some leadership commissions that require applicants to live in City of Madison.  Details of this will be provided when applicable.