Volunteer support has been and continues to be crucial to the success of the Greenway. Beginning with the Board of Directors, which sets policy and goals and actively participates in fund raising, volunteers are involved in all aspects of the Greenway's activities.
From coordinating special events to pulling weeds and planting flowers, over 500 volunteers a year help keep the Greenway a very special place for our entire community to enjoy. We appreciate the volunteers with whom we work directly, as well as the many volunteers who quietly and often anonymously work to clean and beautify the Greenway.
Our Courtesy Cart drivers are a major part of the summer on the Greenway. Everyday usually 3 shifts per day from April thru September they pass out water, some smiles and make the Greenway a welcoming and friendly place to visit. They are the definition of customer service and are all Volunteers. 74 individuals worked together in 2009 to make this happen.
The top Courtesy Cart driver put in 208 hours in 2008 on the cart. Next in line was 195 hours. No wonder they racked up over 21,000 miles on the carts last summer. What a commitment from these folks. Without a doubt, they are Yakima's goodwill ambassadors extraordinaire. Unsung Hero's? Yep, we have em'. Lot's of 'em! And we sure appreciate all that they do for the Greenway and the Yakima Valley community.
New volunteers are always welcome! Current opportunities include:
Litter Pickup
Volunteers are needed year-round to pick up litter along the Greenway. This can be done by individuals or groups. Areas to pick up trash include along the path, in natural areas, and around ponds and lakes. The Greenway can supply garbage bags and litter pick-up sticks.
Gardening
Individuals or groups are needed to maintain flowerbeds and plantings in Greenway parks. Level of commitment can range from a one-time weeding party to adoption of a bed (or beds) in a park. The Greenway can supply gardening tools if necessary.
Greenway Courtesy Cart
(May-October, weather permitting) Operation of the courtesy cart (golf cart) on the pathway to provide pathway users with cool refreshments, first aid supplies, and information. Volunteers commit to a three-hour shift once a week after attending a mandatory training. Training sessions are held in April and volunteers sign up for a shift at that time, with priority given to returning drivers. This is a wonderful way to see the pathway and interact with the many users of the path.
Gap2Gap Relay
About 400 people are needed for race course monitors; course setup and take-down; helping racers at the exchanges; setup and take-down of tents, signs, and barricades. The safety and success of these races are dependent on adequate volunteer coverage. We also welcome groups (such as clubs or employee groups) who would like to volunteer.
If any of these volunteer jobs match your interests, time, and skills, contact the Yakima Greenway office.
