Opportunities From: The City of Plano

Help celebrate Texas Recycles Day by volunteering at Live Green in Plano’s annual drive-thru collection event. This event provides unwanted, usable items a second chance while helping organizations in need.  Items collected during the event are donated to the onsite organizations while being kept out of the landfill. Additionally, electronics recycling and secure paper shredding are offered at the event.

Documents in boxes to be shredded are dropped off in this drive-thru line. Volunteers will help unload the boxes from cars and dump the documents into the onsite cart for shredding (operated by the shredding company).

A background check is required to volunteer at this event for adults (ages 18+).

 

This is a fast-paced environment to ensure that cars continually move through the line as quickly as possible. Volunteers must be able to work on their feet (outdoors) for the duration of the shift (breaks provided as needed) and move quickly.

 

Volunteer responsibilities:

·         Must be able to work in a fast paced environment to ensure cars move through line quickly

·         Must be able to lift boxes full of documents while working on your feet outdoors for duration of the event

·         Unload boxes of documents from cars in the drive-thru line

·         Empty contents of boxes into shredding company’s bins for secure onsite shredding

·         Must be friendly, and able to provide excellent customer service to cars in drive-thru line

·         Break empty down boxes and keep in a manageable pile throughout the event

·         Assist with cleanup/tear down once event ends (break down and haul empty boxes to the onsite recycling container/truck, take down tables and chairs, etc.)

Help celebrate Texas Recycles Day by volunteering at Live Green in Plano’s annual drive-thru collection event. This event provides unwanted, usable items a second chance while helping organizations in need.  Items collected during the event are donated to the onsite organizations while being kept out of the landfill. Additionally, electronics recycling and secure paper shredding are offered at the event.

All donations (except electronics and shredding) are dropped off in this drive-thru line. Volunteers will help unload the items being donated from cars, and/or sort the items to ensure that they go to the correct onsite organization.

A background check is required to volunteer at this event for adults (ages 18+).

 

This is a fast-paced environment to ensure that cars continually move through the line as quickly as possible. Volunteers must be able to work on their feet (outdoors) for the duration of the shift (breaks provided as needed) and move quickly.

Volunteer responsibilities:

·         Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment to ensure cars continually move through line quickly

·         Assist with event set up

·         Unload donated items from cars in the drive-thru line

·         Sort and/or organize donated items

·         Distribute the donated items to the appropriate onsite organization (instructions provided onsite)

·         Must be able to lift bulky items, boxes and/or bulky bags

·         Must be able to work on your feet outdoors for duration of the event

·         Must be friendly, and able to provide excellent customer service to cars in drive-thru line

·         Assist with cleanup/tear down once event ends (break down and haul empty boxes to the onsite recycling container/truck, take down tables and chairs, etc.)

The Love Where You Live Litter Cleanup will be Saturday, September 27th around Memorial Elementary School in Plano.

Volunteers should check-in at Memorial Elementary School for supplies and additional guidance.

Please plan to arrive at 8:45am for check-in.

Updated time: 9am-11am

Individuals and Groups can participate in this event using the Respond button.

Signing up as an individual: 

Click the light blue RESPOND button There will be a pop-up asking you to Sign Up or Sign In. If you already have a Portal account, please Sign In. If you need to create an account, click Sign Up and fill out the appropriate application.Dependent on volunteer status, you will be prompted e-sign a Volunteer Waiver and Background Check Consent Form. Adults 18+ must complete the consent form, a background check is NOT required for this opportunity. You can now finalize your response. 

Signing up as a Group: 

Click the light blue RESPOND AS GROUP buttonThere will be a pop-up asking you to Sign Up or Sign In. If you already have a Portal account, please Sign In. If you need to create an account, click Sign Up and fill out the appropriate applicationDependent on volunteer status, you will be prompted e-sign a Volunteer Waiver and Background Check Consent Form. If though adults 18+ must complete the consent form, a background check is NOT required for this opportunity. You will be prompted enter a Group Name Click “Add Me” button to add yourself to your team as leader You can then select the # of “Reserve Additional Slots” you’d like to save for your group. You will need to email Moniah (email below) the names and email addresses of everyone in your group. Your group members can also register as individuals if that is easier. 

If you're volunteering with your family please register as a group leader and claim spots for everyone in your family that's coming.

While there is no age requirement, anyone under 18 years of age will need their parent's signature for the liability waiver.

If you have any questions, please contact Moniah Dailey at 972-208-8150 or at mdailey@plano.gov

The WaterWise Landscape Tour is a unique event showcasing the Environmental Education Center garden and homes in Plano that feature drought tolerant native and adapted plants.  Garden Guides are essential to making this event a success by helping to answer questions about the plants featured.  No previous plant knowledge is required (resources are available for volunteers the day of the tour) and a *volunteer training is offered.

Being a Certified Master Gardener or a Master Gardener Intern is encouraged for this role but is not a requirement to volunteer.

A background check is required (regardless if you have one on file with another organization) to volunteer at the tour and must be completed by September 26. The background check is free and will be covered by the City of Plano.  

* The volunteer training is highly recommended for those who have not volunteered at this event previously, or would like a refresher.  It is not mandatory.  See the training dates and sign-up for one of the trainings virtually or in person.

This volunteer shift will be held at a tour home. All of the homes featured are located in Plano.

Free lunch will be provided to individuals who volunteer for both the morning and afternoon shifts (8:30am-2:30pm).

Volunteer responsibilities:

Assist with any set up required (morning shift) Must enjoy interacting with people Must have an interest in plants and eager to talk to people about plantsOffer assistance and answer tour participant's questions throughout the garden (onsite plant reference material will be provided)Assist with packing up of tour materials once tour ends (afternoon shift)

The WaterWise Landscape Tour is a unique event showcasing the Environmental Education Center garden and homes in Plano that feature drought tolerant native and adapted plants.  Garden Guides are essential to making this event a success by helping to answer questions about the plants featured.  No previous plant knowledge is required (resources are available for volunteers the day of the tour) and a *volunteer training is offered.

Being a Certified Master Gardener or a Master Gardener Intern is encouraged for this role but is not a requirement to volunteer.

A background check is required (regardless if you have one on file with another organization) to volunteer at the tour and must be completed by September 26. The background check is free and will be covered by the City of Plano.  

* The volunteer training is highly recommended for those who have not volunteered at this event previously, or would like a refresher.  It is not mandatory.  See the training dates and sign-up for one of the trainings virtually or in person.

This volunteer shift will be held at the Environmental Education Center (EEC).

Free lunch will be provided to individuals who volunteer for both the morning and afternoon shifts (8:30am-2:30pm).

Volunteer responsibilities:

Assist with any set up required (morning shift) Must enjoy interacting with people Must have an interest in plants and eager to talk to people about plantsOffer assistance and answer tour participant's questions throughout the garden (onsite plant reference material will be provided)Assist with packing up of tour materials once tour ends (afternoon shift)

Neighborhood Services is currently seeking donations of non-perishable food and essential hygiene items. These will directly support unsheltered individuals and families in our community.

Your contribution directly supports vulnerable individuals in our community. Whether you donate a few items or full kits, every donation bring dignity, comfort, and hope to those who need it most. With your help, we can ensure that no one goes without the basic necessities for a safe and healthy life.

Items Needed Food Kit Items: Canned proteins (tuna, chicken, beans)Peanut butter (individual cups or small jars)Granola or protein barsReady-to-eat meals (microwaveable)Instant oatmeal packetsFruit cups or applesauceBottled water or juice boxesPlastic utensils and napkinsHygiene Kit Items:Travel-sized shampoo & conditionerToothbrushes (individually packaged)ToothpasteDeodorantBody wipes or washclothsSocksFeminine hygiene productsHand sanitizerZiplock bags (gallon size) for kit assemblyDrop-Off Instructions

Location: Neighborhood Services, 777 E. 15th St., Plano, TX 75077

Hours: Monday - Friday between 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

To coordinate a large donation, contact Danielle Davis at ddavis@plano.gov. 

Please know, we do NOT provide service hours for school or court-ordered community service in exchange for donations.

NOTE: This opportunity sign-up cannot be used for court-ordered community service.

The Love Where You Live program partners with neighborhoods to enhance their community, connecting City staff and volunteers to help with:

Minor exterior home repair and landscapingCommunity-wide cleanupsEducation workshops based on resident needsNeighborhood block parties and movie nightsMatching available resources and services with the needs of the residents

With the goal of fostering an environment in the community where neighbors are helping neighbors.

SPRING 2025:

Plano Neighborhood Services is currently creating service projects in the Plano Park neighborhood. If you don't have a group to volunteer with you can still get involved as an individual. Individuals interested in volunteering for LWYL can participate in community wide cleanups, or form a group to assist with minor home repairs.

Adult volunteers 18+ complete a digital waiver and free background check if they choose to participate. If you're interested in receiving information about how you can get involved with the Love Where You Live program this year, Respond to this opportunity.

To Respond, you must create a Volunteer Portal account.

To do so: 

Click Sign Up Select the “I’m an Adult Interested in Neighborhood Services” application track Complete the application questions Review and e-sign the Volunteer Waiver

NOTE: This opportunity sign-up cannot be used for court-ordered community service.

The Love Where You Live program partners with neighborhoods to enhance their community, connecting City staff and volunteers to help with:

Minor exterior home repair and landscapingCommunity-wide cleanupsEducation workshops based on resident needsNeighborhood block parties and movie nightsMatching available resources and services with the needs of the residents

With the goal of fostering an environment in the community where neighbors are helping neighbors.

SPRING 2025:

Plano Neighborhood Services is currently seeking volunteer groups to adopt a project in the Plano Park neighborhood and help with a variety of minor home repair tasks that may include: 

House painting Tree/shrub trimming Trash removal Fence repair 

Adult volunteers 18+ complete a digital waiver and free background check if they choose to work on a home project. If you're interested in receiving information about how your group can participate in Love Where You Live this year, Respond to this opportunity.

To Respond, you must create a Volunteer Portal account.

To do so: 

Click Sign Up Select the “I’m an Adult Interested in Neighborhood Services” application track Complete the application questions Review and e-sign the Volunteer Waiver

NOTE: This opportunity sign-up cannot be used for court-ordered community service.

Plano CARES (Code Abatement by Residents Engaged in Service) connects local volunteers to residents in need of assistance with common property code violations. Plano CARES benefits residents who are not able to resolve code issues due to physical or financial hardship. Eligible projects include:

Minimal tree trimming, Trash removal, Damaged fence removal/repair, Accessory building removal/repair and Minor exterior home repair.

Specific details about the projects will not be made available until closer to the date of the project. Volunteers must be 18 or older.

Project work days are scheduled for the 2nd Saturday of the month from March through November. Tools and equipment will be available on work days for volunteer use. 

If interested in participating in Plano CARES in 2025, Respond to this opportunity. You can sign up as an Individual or as a Group. 

How to create your account and sign up as an individual: 

Click the light blue RESPOND button A pop-up asking you to create an account or login will appear - Click SIGN UP Complete the "I'm An Adult 18+" application Once created, you will be directed back to the opportunity You will be prompted to complete a Volunteer Waiver and Background Check Consent Form You can now finalize your response and there will be a spot to put a note if you’d like to share some information with staff about your interest.

How to create your account and sign up as A GROUP LEADER: 

Click the light blue RESPOND AS GROUP button A pop-up asking you to create an account or login will appear - Click SIGN UP Complete the "I'm An Adult 18+" application Once created, you will be directed back to the opportunity click “RESPOND AS GROUP” if needed You will be prompted enter a Group Name Click “Add Me” button to add yourself to your team as leader You can then select the # of “Reserve Additional Slots” you’d like to save for your group. You will need to email Moniah (email below) the names and email addresses of everyone in your group.

In the Response Notes section, please let us know about your skill sets - fence repair, use of power tools, tree trimming, etc.

If you have any questions, please contact Moniah Dailey at 972-208-8124 or at mdailey@plano.gov 

Street Outreach Volunteer

This position will work alongside the Homeless Services Coordinator engaging in Community Street Outreach. The team ensures that unsheltered individual’s basic needs are met while supporting them along pathways toward housing stability and supportive services as needed. The team is responsible for engaging with identified individuals, receiving referrals on locations and from Community Partners.

This volunteer role is great experience for a college student studying towards their social work degree and should qualify as a for-credit unpaid internship placement site. This position may also be meaningful to a retiree, or working adult who has a flexible schedule or someone in a career transition who has an interest in serving the community. Volunteers will always work alongside a paid staff member while providing outreach support.

Overview

Street outreach duties encompass outreach attempts, contact, engagement, navigation and warm-handoff. Key responsibilities fall into three areas (1) Outreach & Engagement, (2) Coordination with Community Stakeholders, and (3) Administrative Duties. 

Street Outreach & EngagementConducts street outreach to homeless populations, as well as provides assistance at designated City facilities to those in need. Outreach is conducted via City Outreach Vehicle and through street patrolsFocuses outreach on the vulnerable individuals including the chronically homeless and other vulnerable populations (veterans, families with children, women). Conducts triage to determine and assist with immediate client needs including food, water, and emergency shelter. Provides navigation services to clients by assisting clients to obtain documents and services needed to obtain housing. This may include: referral assistance with obtaining identification documents.Conducts a warm-hand off of client to housing provider upon referral to facilitate transfer of services.
Coordination with Community Stakeholders
Attends Collin County Homeless Coalition and Continuum of Care assembly meetings. Maintains close communication with other outreach team members to provide “team approach” to ensure that all street homeless are being assisted. Coordinates the creation and distribution of care packages to unsheltered homeless. Assists with the preparation and administration of the Annual Homeless Census, as well as the implementation of the City’s Homeless Strategy.Administrative DutiesCompletes any needed paperwork or documentation related to their outreach & coordination tasksUses Microsoft Office Suites to find, update and/or assist in creation of relevant resourcesCommunicates effectively with other volunteers and staffQualifications Knowledge, skills, and abilities consistent with a degree in in human services related field, or related experience. Demonstrated knowledge and ability to establish & maintain effective working relationships with area services, community partners, and resources. Knowledge of Homeless programs and services would be beneficial. Commitment to operating within a trauma-informed workplace and community that demonstrates a balance of kindness, competence and care toward self, colleagues, and populations served. Ability to assess and respond responsibly in a wide variety of situations and crises. Minimum direct care experience with persons with mental illness, homelessness, or disabilities. Proficiency in Windows based computer environment and Microsoft Office Suite. Good written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, organizational and time management skills. Ability to work independently, prioritize multiple tasks, and be flexible in job duties & schedule. Possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation to get to and from work shifts and have the ability to tolerate extreme weather conditions. Must complete a free driver license check, criminal history background check, periodic CJIS background check (for positions requiring access into Police buildings only) and social security number verification check.

The WaterWise Landscape Tour is a unique event showcasing the Environmental Education Center garden and homes in Plano that feature drought tolerant native and adapted plants.  Greeters are essential to this event by welcoming tour attendees.  No previous plant knowledge is required (resources are available for volunteers the day of the tour) and a *volunteer training is offered.  A background check is required to volunteer at the tour and must be completed by September 26. The background check is free and will be covered by the City of Plano.  

* The volunteer training is highly recommended for those who have not volunteered at this event previously, or would like a refresher.  It is not mandatory.  See the training dates and sign-up for one of the trainings virtually or in person.

This volunteer shift will be held at a home featured on the tour.  A tour home will be assigned to you.  All tour homes are located in Plano.

Free lunch will be provided to individuals who volunteer for both the morning and afternoon shifts (8:30am-2:30pm).

Responsibilities of the Greeter:

Set up greeter table with materials provided (am shift) Must be outgoing and enjoy interacting with people Greet tour participants as they arriveHand out provided materials to tour attendeesPack up greeter table materials when tour ends (pm shift)

The WaterWise Landscape Tour is a unique event showcasing the Environmental Education Center garden and homes in Plano that feature drought tolerant native and adapted plants.  Greeters are essential to this event by welcoming tour attendees. No previous plant knowledge is required (resources are available for volunteers the day of the tour) and a *volunteer training is offered.  A background check is required to volunteer at the tour and must be completed by September 26. The background check is free and will be covered by the City of Plano.  

* The volunteer training is highly recommended for those who have not volunteered at this event previously, or would like a refresher.  It is not mandatory.  See the training dates and sign-up for one of the trainings virtually or in person.

This volunteer shift will be held at the Environmental Education Center.

Free lunch will be provided to individuals who volunteer for both the morning and afternoon shifts (8:30am-2:30pm).

Responsibilities of the Greeter:

Set up the Greeter table materials provided (am shift) Must be outgoing and enjoy interacting with peopleGreet tour participants as they arriveProvide materials to tour participants Pack up Greeter table materials once tour ends (pm shift)

Volunteer Orientations on 10/8/24 (optional):

In-Person

Virtual

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) offers specialized training for volunteers who live or work in the City of Plano. CERT trains and coordinates volunteers to prepare and respond to community or regional disasters or emergencies.

CERT’s unique training and response program follows the U.S Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Plano’s Emergency Management department has enhanced and customized this program to fit the needs of Plano’s residents.

Upon conclusion of the program, participants “respond” to a full-scale disaster scenario that allows them to apply the training learned in the lessons of the program. Graduates can remain involved as a CERT volunteer by attending alum nights, through outreach and education, and assisting with some administrative tasks. 

Next CERT in Fall 2025

Fall 2025 dates are October 17-19, 2025. Official signups and the screening process will begin in September. Individuals on this Interest List will be notified first of registration. 

When future CERT dates are available, individuals on this Interest List will be contacted first. 

Questions?

Please email Ashley at ahurlbert@plano.gov. 

A foster volunteer provides a temporary home for animals to allow them time to grow or address a temporary medical or mild behavioral issue prior to the animal being placed for adoption. The most frequent types of foster placements are weaned kittens under 2.5 pounds and mother cats while pregnant and/or nursing kittens. Occasionally, there are placements for mother dogs while pregnant and/or nursing. 

The devotion, care, and socialization given during this time greatly increases the animal’s chance to be adopted by a loving home. Foster animals will be in your home for a limited time and returned to the shelter for adoption. Adoptions are not done from the home setting. 

Eligibility

One household member must be at least 21 years of age Household must be within 30 miles of 4028 West Plano Parkway If renting, must have signed approval from landlord Agree to an initial in home inspection and random drop-in visits at reasonable hours Resident pets must be (1) spayed/neutered, (2) up-to-date on vaccinations and (3) registered with the City Must understand that there is no guarantee that the animal will be adopted once returned to the shelter
after fostering

Interested? Email morgangg@plano.gov for next steps. 

NOTE: This opportunity cannot be used for court-ordered community service. 

Plano CARES (Code Abatement by Residents Engaged in Service) connects local volunteers to residents in need of assistance with common property code violations. Plano CARES benefits residents who are not able to resolve code issues due to physical or financial hardship. Eligible projects include:

Minimal tree trimming, Trash removal, Damaged fence removal/repair, Accessory building removal/repair and Minor exterior home repair.

Specific details about the projects will not be made available until closer to the date of the project. Volunteers must be 18 or older.

Project work days are scheduled for one Saturday of the month from March through November. Tools and equipment will be available on work days for volunteer use. 

If interested in participating in Plano CARES in 2025, Respond to this opportunity. If you plan to be a Group Leader, please Respond as an individual. Group signups are available once official dates are posted.

To Respond, you must create a Volunteer Portal account. To do so: 

Click Sign Up Select the “I’m an Adult Interested in Neighborhood Services” application track Complete the application questions Review and e-sign the Volunteer Waiver

Are you a member of the Sam Johnson Rec Center (SJC) who wants to get more involved? Give back to your community by volunteering as a Greeter!

Greeters serve as a friendly face to members when they arrive, direct visitors to the specific rooms where programs are being held, and answer general questions about SJC. This position does NOT require standing for long periods of time. Greeters usually sit unless walking someone to a specific room or the main information desk.

Volunteers should be A current Sam Johnson Recreation Center memberFriendly & welcomingLooking for an ongoing volunteer commitmentCurrent openingsMondays from 10 am - 12 pmFridays from 12 - 2 pmHow to apply

You can apply online following the below instructions. If you would like to discuss the position further, feel free to contact Morgan Green-Griffin at mgreengriffin@plano.gov

Click RESPOND.If you already have a volunteer account, click SIGN IN. If not, click SIGN UP and answer the needed questions to create a profile. You'll be directed back to the response page. In the Response Notes please indicate which shift you are available for.  Click SUMBIT OPPORTUNITY RESPONSE

Currently Recruiting for Fridays

The Gazebo Café is a convenient dining destination for SJC members looking for healthy and affordable meals. The Café is open Monday – Friday except on certain holidays. On average, 100+ meals are served per day. The Café is not a revenue generating program, and this service is possible because dedicated volunteers and staff work alongside each other.

Required skills Comfortable using knives and other kitchen tools Mobility to walk, stand, bend and lift up to 20 lbs Understand and recall written and verbal directions Ability to work and communicate with a diverse, intergenerational team Able to maintain cleanliness and food hygiene standards Experience as a home cook or prior employment/volunteerism in food service (preferred) Individuals must Be 18+ (cannot be currently enrolled in high school) Want a long-term opportunity (1 shift per week) Pass a background check Complete a food handling course (FREE) Next stepsClick "Respond" and indicate which days you'd be available in the Response Notes. If you don't already have a Volunteer Portal account, you should create one. Be on the lookout for an email from Morgan Green-Griffin with next steps.

Note: All Gazebo Café volunteers must be 18+ and available for an ongoing commitment. If you respond to this opportunity and do NOT meet the age guidelines, your response will be removed. Age exceptions CANNOT be made.