Opportunities From: City of Garland TX

Join us NOVEMBER 15 and volunteer at our community recycle collection day! We're looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help ensure a smooth and successful event. Your contribution will directly support our efforts to reduce waste and promote a greener community.

What You'll Be Doing:

Why Volunteer?

Event Details:

Let's work together to create a cleaner, healthier planet!

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official City of Garland Animal Shelter volunteer page*

Volunteering at the City of Garland Animal Shelter

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the City of Garland Animal Shelter! While the shelter is operated by the City, we partner with Friends of Rescue Animals (FRAs), a local nonprofit organization, to screen and coordinate volunteers.

To become a volunteer, please visit Friends of Rescue Animals (FRAs) and complete their volunteer application process. Once approved, you’ll have the opportunity to help care for animals, assist with adoptions, and support shelter operations.

We appreciate your dedication to helping the animals in our community, and we look forward to having you as part of the team! 

Follow these steps to become a FRA volunteer:

Note:

Arbor Day Tree PlantingHelp us branch out and grow Garland’s urban forest this Arbor Day! Join neighbors, City staff, and community leaders as we plant new trees that will shade, clean, and beautify Woodland Park for generations to come. No green thumb required—just bring your energy and we’ll provide the rest.

Event Details:
Woodland Park, 815 W Walnut Street, Garland, TX 75040
Saturday, November 1, 2025

Agenda for Volunteers:

8:30 AM – Volunteer check-in

9:00 AM – Welcome remarks & Mayor’s proclamation

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM – Tree planting

Dig in, make an impact, and leave a lasting rootprint in your community!

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official Boards & Commissions page*

Volunteering with Boards & Commissions

The American democratic experience is built upon the foundation of concerned and caring residents becoming actively involved in local government. Consistent with this principle, Garland’s Charter provides for the City Council to utilize resident volunteers to assist in carrying out the many functions of municipal government by serving on various advisory boards and commissions. Please give serious consideration to becoming more involved in helping make Garland the best city possible by applying to serve on a board or commission of your choice.

To apply, click here to open the application form, or pick up an application in the City Secretary’s Office. For more information, call 972-205-2404.

The Garland Charter and Code of Ordinances establish certain qualifications that must be met by members of boards and commissions. In addition to special qualifications for service, a board member must:

The training video includes a brief introduction for serving on a city board or commission and what to expect as you begin your service. The training also covers how to run an effective boards and commissions meeting.

Looking for a City Council Committee? Visit our City Council webpage.

Click here

*This is not an event opportunity, email Volunteer@GarlandTX.gov if interested*

Looking to make a difference in your community on your own time? CODE CARES is a flexible, self-directed volunteer opportunity where you set the pace. Whether you're flying solo or teaming up with friends, this is your chance to help beautify Garland neighborhoods and support residents in need.

What You'll Do:
Help with light exterior maintenance projects such as:

Litter pickup

Lawn care

Minor repairs

Debris removal

Other code compliance tasks that assist elderly or disabled residents

Perfect For:

Individuals who like to volunteer at their own pace

Friends or families looking to give back together

Groups of 2, 3, or 5—grab your crew and get to work!

When:
Totally up to you! CODE CARES is self-directed, so you choose the day and time that works best for your schedule.

Where:
Various residential locations in Garland (assignments provided upon sign-up)

How It Works:
Shoot us an email, get matched with a project, and we'll send you all the info you need. Then head out when it’s convenient for you. Simple as that.

Ready to roll up your sleeves and help your neighbors?
Sign up today and take part in this meaningful, make-a-difference mission—on your own time.

Email us at Volunteer@GarlandTX.gov to get involved!

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official City of Garland Fire Academy page*

Volunteering at the City of Garland Fire Department

The Garland Fire Department is committed to keeping our community safe, informed, and engaged. From life-saving emergency preparedness to hands-on educational experiences, we offer a variety of programs for residents of all ages. Whether you’re looking to learn vital medical information, explore a career in firefighting, or schedule a fire station visit, we have opportunities for you. Check out our programs below and get involved today!

Who speaks for you when you cannot? Do you have a list of your medications, medical history and allergies readily available? In an emergency, this is important information which the first responders need to know. The Garland Fire Department has created such a list for you Emergency Medical Information Form (PDF). Please print it, complete it, place it in a baggie and tape it to your refrigerator door. If you are on the go a lot, place a second one in your purse. This information could help save your life.

The Citizens Fire Academy is open to anyone over the age of eighteen who lives or works in the City of Garland. This program is intended to familiarize citizens and associates of the services we provide, how we operate, and why we do things we do. Class hours are from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday nights. To apply, complete the Citizens Fire Academy Application (PDF).

We are proud to announce an opportunity for graduating senior GISD students to attend a Youth Citizens Fire Academy which is intended to promote a greater understanding of the mission, responsibilities, and activities of the Fire Department while serving the community. To apply, complete the Youth Citizens Fire Academy Application.

To schedule an engine visit, ambulance visit, or station tour, click here to submit a request. Requests must be submitted and scheduled two weeks prior to the event. We do not schedule visits or tours on Mondays. If you have questions, you may call 972-781-7148 for assistance.

To schedule a career day speaker or a recruiter for a job fair, please call the recruiting office at
972-781-7149.

Volunteer Garland invites you to help brighten the lives of children and teens in foster care (ages 3–18). Many of these youth are navigating difficult transitions — your support can bring comfort, dignity, and hope right when they need it most.

We’re collecting donations in two ways:

Spread holiday cheer by donating new, unwrapped toys for children and teens. Every gift helps ensure they have something to call their own this season.

Requested Holiday Items:

Toys for boys and girls (ages 3–12)

Legos and creative play sets

Children enter foster care throughout the year — often with little more than the clothes they are wearing. You can help by donating items for care kits that provide essentials and comfort.

Requested Care Kit Items:

Pampers Swaddlers (Size 2)

Diapers (Size 4, any brand)

Baby wipes

New car seats (unused, in box)

Jewelry, perfume, or makeup (for teens)

Gift cards (clothing, shoes, personal care)

Art and drawing supplies (sketch pads, paints, craft sets)

Want to make an even bigger impact? Consider putting together a complete backpack for a child or teen in foster care.

Suggested contents:

A sturdy backpack or tote

Age-appropriate hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, lotion, wipes)

A small comfort item (stuffed animal, journal, stress ball)

Art or creative supplies (coloring book, sketch pad, crayons)

A personal note or card of encouragement

Optional: gift card ($10–$25) for clothing or a special treat

Optional for teens: jewelry, perfume, makeup, or other self-care items

Please label each backpack with the intended age group: 3–6, 7–12, or 13–18.

When: Monday–Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM
Where: Parks Operations Center
Attention: Volunteer Garland
525 Tower Street, Garland, TX 75040

You may donate items individually or organize a collection drive through your workplace, school, church, or civic group. To coordinate a group drop-off, visit VolunteerGarland.org.

The holidays are a special time to give, but this program continues year-round. Each donation helps children and teens entering foster care feel safe, valued, and cared for — not just during the holidays, but every season of the year.

We know some students and community members are looking to complete volunteer hours. Donations count! If you bring items for this program, you can still acquire volunteer hours for your contribution.

Every donation — large or small — has the power to restore hope, dignity, and comfort to a child in foster care. Whether it’s a single toy, a pack of wipes, or a full backpack, your gift matters more than you know.

Together, we can remind every child entering foster care that they are seen, valued, and loved.

Questions or want to coordinate? Email: Volunteer@Garlandtx.org

Teens can earn community service hours by volunteering at the Garland Central Library! Help us keep our books organized and the children's area clean.

Duties include:

This volunteer opportunity is for ages 12-18 only. Volunteers will sign in for their shift downstairs at the Children's Desk. 

Note: If you cannot attend your volunteer shift, please cancel it online or call Central Library at 972-205-2501 to let us know so we can cancel the shift.

Come help us at Play & Learn, where families with children ages 0 to 5 join us in the Central Library Storytime Room to enjoy an assortment of toys, games, and activities that foster imagination, creativity and problem solving.

Volunteers will sign in at 10 am and help count attendance during the program, which runs 10 a.m. to noon. At noon, we will close the storytime room, and volunteers will help clean the toys and put them away. 

This volunteer opportunity is for ages 12-18 only. Volunteers will sign in for their shift downstairs at the Children's Desk. 

Note: If you cannot attend your volunteer shift, please cancel it online or call Central Library at 972-205-2501 to let us know so we can cancel the shift.

Want some easy volunteer hours at the Garland Central Library? All you need to do is take a seat!

Central Library is looking for teen volunteers to model proper usage of our new Reader Stairs. To discourage people (especially children) from climbing or jumping on the Reader Stairs, volunteers can find a seat on the stairs while reading a book, working on school assignments, or other quiet activities of your choosing. Here's how it works:

Volunteers are welcome to sign up in groups to sit together on the stairs, as long as they keep their volume at a reasonable level. Music or audio from phones must be played on headphones/earbuds.

This volunteer opportunity is for ages 12-18 only during Central Library's operating hours. Volunteers will sign in for their shift downstairs at the Children's Desk. 

Central Library Operating Hours:

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official Garland Youth Council Page*

Volunteering with Garland Youth Council

**This is an information only page, please visit https://www.garlandtx.gov/461/Citizens-on-Patrol-COP**

Volunteering with Garland Police Department

The Garland Police Department’s Citizens On Patrol (C.O.P.) program is an extension of the Neighborhood Crime Watch program and provides an opportunity for citizens to take an active role in crime prevention in their neighborhood. C.O.P. members must complete a training class provided by the police department and are instructed in effective ways to patrol their neighborhood in a car, on foot, or on a bicycle. The objective of the program is to provide more eyes and ears on the streets of Garland observing and reporting crime and/or suspicious activity.

For more information on the Citizens On Patrol program, call Officer Pesta at 972-485-4896.

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official Garland Citizen Police Academy page*

Volunteering with the Garland Police Department

The Garland Citizen Police Academy (CPA) offers residents and those who work in Garland a unique opportunity to learn about the Garland Police Department. Over several weeks, participants hear from officers, detectives, investigators, and specialists, gaining insight into various aspects of law enforcement.

The program features interactive sessions, detention center and communications observations, a ride-along, and hands-on demonstrations, providing a deeper understanding of the department’s role in the community. By strengthening relationships, the CPA fosters transparency, trust, and engagement.

Now accepting applications (PDF).

Congratulations CPA Class 60!

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official Volunteers in Policing page*

Volunteering with the Garland Police Department

The volunteers of the Garland Police Department continue to assist us in our service to the citizens of this city by contributing their time, expertise, and commitment to our department. Their willingness to help and their professionalism have truly been an example to all other volunteer groups. We are, once again, grateful for their assistance. All those interested in volunteering must first attend and complete the Garland Citizen's Police Academy.

Volunteers offer fingerprinting services Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., off the main lobby of the Police Department. Cash only.

Uniformed volunteers in a marked Garland Police car check the homes of Garland citizens who are away from home on vacation to ensure that no burglar has broken in and taken their possessions. If you would like to have your home placed on the Vacation Watch list, please view the Vacation Watch Request Form (PDF) This service is available to any homeowner within the city limits of Garland.

Volunteers are utilized by the Patrol Division to maintain the safe condition of the Patrol vehicles by checking fluid levels, making sure that lights, brakes, etc. are functioning properly, and transporting the vehicles needing repairs to and from the City garage.

*This page is for information only. Click here for the official Keep Garland Beautiful Page*

Volunteering with Keep Garland Beautiful

Keep Garland Beautiful, a 501(c)3 registered non-profit organization, is committed to educating and engaging individuals to take responsibility for improving their community environment.

Participate in regular litter clean-up events or request the supplies your group needs to beautify your school or neighborhood.

Learn More 

Let our native plant experts help you design and start your Monarch Way Station, pollinator patch or garden.

Learn More

Request a Keep Garland Beautiful table for your event or have our education team give your group a lesson on recycling or litter prevention.

Learn More

Keep Garland Beautiful is a Keep Texas Beautiful Gold Star Affiliate.

Gold Star distinction is awarded to groups that have made an impact in their communities and helped make Texas the cleanest, most beautiful state in the nation. It is the highest status any community affiliate can achieve.

Your support will mean so much to us, and the 243,000 or so people that call Garland home.

Contact Us
Follow Us on Facebook

Teens can earn community service hours by volunteering at the North Garland Library! Help us keep our books organized and the children's area clean.

Duties include:

This volunteer opportunity is for ages 12-18 only. Volunteers will sign in for their shift at the Children's Desk. 

Due to limited shift availability, volunteers may sign up for no more than two shifts in a month. We appreciate your understanding.

Neighborhood Vitality Department

Presents

Join us to bring color to Quail Creek! Help paint a community “paint-by-numbers” retaining wall. No experience needed.

Date: October 18, 2025 - Rained out: Rescheduled

Date: October 22, 2025

Date: October 25, 2025 (Most likely looking at a reschedule due to rain in forecast for Wednesday, October 29th). Preregister to get cancel notification.

8:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: Retaining wall along Miller Rd at the intersection with S. Country Club Rd, Where The Heart Is neighborhood, Quail Creek, Garland, TX 75040

What You’ll Do:

Paint a community “paint-by-numbers” retaining wall

Follow safety guidelines and use provided PPE (vests, gloves)

Keep the area clean and organized

What We Provide:

All painting supplies and safety gear

Water, coolers, and first-aid kit

Who Can Help:

Teenagers and adults (no painting experience needed!)

Sign Up:
Neighborhood volunteers first, then open citywide. Waivers completed at registration or preregistered here.

Tips:

Wear clothes that can get paint on them

Be ready to stand and paint for a few hours

Self Directed Litter Cleanup Program

The City of Garland's Volunteer Office holds guided litter cleanups once a month. The registration for those opportunities will be listed separately on the Get Connected website.

If you want to clean up litter alone, we can help you. Our safety program trains you, provides supplies, and location. 

First Time Experience

Location

The Volunteer Office is located at 525 Tower Street and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please contact the office at 972-205-3583 or email Volunteer@GarlandTx.org to schedule your visit in advance.

Program Restrictions

Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult sponsor.

Carver Senior Center is looking for 3 dependable volunteers daily to help during senior lunch service.

Make Mealtime Meaningful
You’ll support staff with:

Setting up tables & chairs

Light cleaning before and after meals

Welcoming our seniors and keeping things cheerful

Creating a safe, clean, and inviting dining space

Each shift is only 2 hours—a small time commitment that brings big smiles and meaningful connection.

Who We're Looking For:
✔ Enjoys being around older adults
✔ Can lift light chairs & tidy up
✔ Dependable, respectful, and kind
✔ Able to commit weekly or be on-call

Great for students, retirees, or anyone with a heart to serve over lunch!

Why It Matters
For many of our seniors, this lunch is more than just a meal. It’s a time to connect, enjoy conversation, and feel part of a community. By volunteering, you help create a warm and welcoming space where older adults can enjoy their meal comfortably. Your presence adds kindness and care to their day. Every table you set and every smile you share helps make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

Carver Senior Center
222 Carver St. #B
Garland, TX 75040
Monday–Friday
Lunchtime Hours (exact time varies slightly depending on the day’s schedule)

Sign up at VolunteerGarland.org
Or contact Jelisa Baker, Recreation Services Supervisor
jebaker@GarlandTX.gov | ☎ 972-205-3305

Let’s serve our seniors—together.

**Restrictions: No court appointed or truancy candidates.** 

Fields Recreation Center is looking for 3 dependable volunteers daily to help during senior lunch service.

Make Mealtime Meaningful
You’ll support staff with:

Setting up tables & chairs

Light cleaning before and after meals

Welcoming our seniors and keeping things cheerful

Creating a safe, clean, and inviting dining space

Each shift is only 2 hours—a small time commitment that brings big smiles and meaningful connection.

Who We're Looking For:
✔ Enjoys being around older adults
✔ Can lift light chairs & tidy up
✔ Dependable, respectful, and kind
✔ Able to commit weekly or be on-call

Great for students, retirees, or anyone with a heart to serve over lunch!

Why It Matters
For many of our seniors, this lunch is more than just a meal. It’s a time to connect, enjoy conversation, and feel part of a community. By volunteering, you help create a warm and welcoming space where older adults can enjoy their meal comfortably. Your presence adds kindness and care to their day. Every table you set and every smile you share helps make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

Fields Recreation Center
1701 Dairy Road
Garland, TX 75040
Monday–Friday
Lunchtime Hours (exact time varies slightly depending on the day’s schedule)

Sign up at VolunteerGarland.org
Or contact Elda Guerrero, Recreation Services Specialist

mguerrero@garlandtx.gov| ☎ 972-205-3583

Rachel Bibby, Recreation Services Specialist

rbibby@garlandtx.gov| ☎ 972-205-3665

Let’s serve our seniors—together.

**Restrictions: No court appointed or truancy candidates.** 

Drop in with Skatepark Respect for Some Good Clean Fun!

This November marks our 3rd Annual Food Drive benefiting Good Sam of Garland. We believe in putting back into the Garland community — and skating for a cause!

Join us from 9 a.m. to noon for a litter cleanup around the Jon Comer Skatepark, then stick around or roll by to drop off canned goods and pantry-safe foods until 2 p.m.

Cleanup not your thing? No problem — you can still turn cans into good deeds and volunteer hours. Everyone who donates will be entered into a raffle for a mystery prize.

Please join us — all cans on deck!

Teens can earn community service hours by volunteering at the South Garland Library! Help us prepare for children's programs and keep our Children's Area tidy.

Duties include:

This volunteer opportunity is for ages 12-18 only. Volunteers will sign in for their shift at the Children's Desk.

Due to limited shift availability, volunteers may sign up for no more than four shifts in a month. Additionally, we cannot fulfill court-ordered community service requirements. We appreciate your understanding.

Be a Project Lead for The Big Event 2026!
Rally a crew. Lead the charge. Make a difference.

We’re looking for passionate, organized, and community-minded folks to step up as Project Leads for The Big Event, a one-day citywide service celebration where volunteers team up to complete hands-on projects all across Garland.

As a Project Lead, you’ll help guide a volunteer group at one site. Whether it’s painting, planting, repairing, or removing litter, you’ll keep the good vibes and project goals on track.

What You’ll Do:

Arrive early to check in and get supplies

Greet your volunteer team and review the project plan

Delegate tasks, encourage teamwork, and help troubleshoot if needed

Communicate with city staff if anything comes up

Make sure the project wraps up smoothly and everything looks great!

No prior experience needed, just a willingness to lead and a heart for service.
We’ll give you everything you need: a quick training, your project details, supplies, and support.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and guide others while doing something really good for Garland, sign up today to be a Project Lead!

The Big Event 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
Join us in making a positive impact in Garland!

The Big Event is a citywide day of service where volunteers work together to improve neighborhoods, support seniors, assist nonprofits, and enhance schools. Your sponsorship helps make these projects possible and strengthens our community.

Community Champion
Supports multiple projects and event needs
Includes prominent recognition on event materials, online, and at key activities

Unity Builder
Supports several projects or volunteer needs
Includes logo or name recognition on event signage and online

Service Advocate
Supports some projects or event essentials
Includes recognition on event signage and social media

Project Partner
Supports individual projects
Includes acknowledgment on event materials and website

Friend of Garland
Supports smaller project needs or event supplies
Includes recognition on sponsor boards

Support specific event elements such as volunteer shirts, meals, entertainment, or project supplies with customized recognition.

You can also support other community programs and events throughout the year to increase your visibility and impact.

Volunteer for The Big Event 2026
Grab some gloves, gather your crew, and let’s get to work!

The Big Event is Garland’s one-day citywide volunteer blitz where we come together to help our neighbors, support local nonprofits, clean up parks, and tackle hands-on projects that make our city shine.

Whether you're a solo do-gooder, a family, a friend group, or a full-on work crew, there’s a spot for you.

Volunteer projects may include:

Yard work and small repairs for seniors

Litter cleanups and graffiti removal

Painting, planting, and beautifying public spaces

Helping local schools or community centers

What to expect:

A fun, impactful day of service

All supplies and instructions provided

A free volunteer t-shirt (while supplies last)

That warm, fuzzy “I made a difference” feeling

No experience necessary. Just bring your energy, your willingness to help, and maybe a few friends.

Let’s show Garland what teamwork can do. Sign up today and be part of something BIG!