Gilbert's Parks and Recreation Department welcomes you to join our team by becoming a volunteer! Volunteers are committed and dedicated individuals that love to give back to their community and have fun.

Gilbert Parks & Recreation hosts several incredible events throughout the year including the 4th of July event, Gilbert Days Festival & Parade, Gilbert Global Village, Glow Run, Truck-a-palooza, and so much more! Volunteers are needed for a variety of tasks including event set-up and tear-down, managing check-in, helping with event operations, and more.

There are a variety of ways to get involved at the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch. Volunteer opportunities may include one-time projects, general garden maintenance, or assistance with field trips and educational programming.
Individuals interested in volunteering - please use the I Would Like to Volunteer tile on the right side of the screen to fill out an application.
For those interested in volunteering as a group - Click here for Group Application

Gilbert Parks & Recreation hosts community events and programs at several recreation sites including McQueen Park Activity Center, Gilbert Community Center, Freestone Recreation Center, Southeast Regional Library, and Cactus Yards. These locations offer several opportunities including service learning for teens, helping in the adaptive programs, or serving meals at the Senior Center.

Volunteers are essential for the operation of the Town of Gilbert's Senior Center which provides on-site meal service as well as wellness programs for our senior citizens.

Park and trail clean-up is a great way to support your community! Gilbert has 9 major parks, 14 neighborhood parks, and 3 major trail systems that connect through the town. Individuals or groups can volunteer to help clean playground equipment or pick up trash along the trails.
Click here for Group Application

Court-ordered community service is available to individuals on an appointment basis only. Tasks include litter removal, cleaning picnic sites and equipment, painting, and other maintenance duties. Physical labor is required. Work is conducted outdoors and under the supervision of Park staff. Must be 18 years or older to participate.
If you are not able to schedule a time with Gilbert for service -Other non-profit organizations may also accept court-ordered community service on a case-by-case basis including the following: AZCEND - Volunteer Info | Midwest Food Bank - Volunteer Interest Form | HD South - Contact form | Salvation Army - Volunteer info | Veterans & their Pets - Contact | Other resources - 211
| Activity | Shifts | Start | End | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riparian Camp Assistant | 10 | 3/9/2026 | 3/20/2026 | |
| Riparian Preserve Volunteer Days | 2 | 2/14/2026 | 3/14/2026 | |
| Activity | Shifts | Start | End | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global Village Festival 2025 | 2 | 4/11/2026 | 4/11/2026 | |
| Kapow! Super Hero Run 2026 | 1 | 3/21/2026 | 3/21/2026 | |
Gilbert Parks and Recreation is committed to providing superior parks, recreation, and cultural programs, which exceed customer expectations, enhance the quality of life, and promote lifelong leisure and educational pursuits. These services are provided by a dedicated team focused on fairness, trust, and innovation with a commitment to excellence.