Volunteer Opportunities

Manatee County Government offers a range of opportunities to volunteer through our Animal Services division, Parks & Natural Resources department, Public Libraries and more.

Additional opportunities to volunteer around Manatee County can be found through United Way Suncoast.

Area Volunteer Opportunities
Animal Services
(Public Safety)		 Administrative/Data Entry
Adoption Counselor
Bathing Dogs
Cat Cuddler
Community Events
Dog Play Groups
Dog Training/Pit Crew
Dog Walker
Greeter
Jr. Volunteer
Marketing/Promotions
Pet Photographer/Handler
Park & Preserve Volunteers
(Parks & Natural Resources) 		You really can make a difference! By volunteering in the preserves, you will make a positive impact on the environment. Volunteers help preserve the homes of native plants and animals, re-establishing much-needed habitat. The work completed by volunteers will also help to secure the land for the enjoyment of future generations. All individuals are welcome to apply to become a volunteer - we have lots of different jobs available!
Youth Basketball
(Parks & Natural Resources) 		The Manatee County Parks and Natural Resources Department offers two seasons of Youth Basketball, a program that is designed to encourage youth of all ages (5-17), gender, and ability. The purpose of the league is to develop the fundamentals of the game and promote team play through teaching, training, and sportsmanship. By not overly emphasizing winning every game as a primary goal, we are able to encourage skill development, a positive attitude, and build self-esteem.
Public Libraries
(Neighborhood Services)
 Checking in and re-shelving library materials
Processing materials
Book repair
Outreach Services
Local history and genealogy aides
Programs and Special Events
Special Projects
Office help and data entry
Computer help
Teen advisory board
Friends of the Library bookstore (Friends' members only)
Master Gardeners
(Agriculture & Extension Service Division
Community Services)		 The Master Gardener Program provides gardeners with intensive education in horticultural principles. Participants who complete the program are certified as a "FLORIDA MASTER GARDENER" by the Florida Cooperative Extension Service. Working with the Extension Agent, Master Gardeners provide volunteer leadership and service to Manatee County. This service consists of such things as answering gardening questions, conducting plant clinics, beautifying the community, and other activities which promote horticulture.
4-H
(Agriculture & Extension Service Division
Community Services)		 Adults gain leadership experience and training when they become 4-H leaders. Adults interested in serving as club leaders go through an extensive screening process - application form, background check, interview, reference check, and orientation before becoming involved with youth. A yearly mandatory leader training is conducted at the county level. Adult volunteer leaders are encouraged to attend the State 4-H Leader Forum as well as the Regional 4-H Leader Forum to increase their leadership skills, gain ideas from other leaders, and get reinvigorated in the program.