Opportunities From: City of Garland TX

*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:

*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.

PLEASE NOTE: Garland Central Library will close at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4 in preparation for the Christmas on the Square event downtown.

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.

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.** 

This December, Skatepark Respect is keeping the giving spirit alive with our 3rd Annual Warm Drive — helping spread comfort and care throughout the Garland community!

Join us from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for a litter cleanup at Jon Comer Skatepark, then stick around or roll through to drop off donations of socks, mittens, beanies, scarves, blankets, and jackets for all ages until 1 p.m. 
We will also be collecting sanitary items. 

Not into cleanup duty? No sweat — your donations alone make a big difference! Every item you bring goes toward keeping our neighbors warm this winter and earns you volunteer hours and a chance to win a mystery prize.

VOLUNTEERS WILL ALSO BE TREATED TO A HOT COCOA BAR!

Come share the stoke, give back, and help fill Garland with warmth and goodwill — one cozy donation at a time.

Bundle up, drop in, and do some good — all hands (and gloves) on deck!

All donations will be collected in honor of Hope’s Door, GLOWS, and other local organizations working to support families and individuals in need this winter.

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.

➡️If you cannot attend your volunteer shift, please cancel it online or call us at 972-205-3934 to let us know. If you have three no-call no-show occurrences, we will delete your future shifts and you will no longer be permitted to volunteer at any of the Garland libraries.

Teens can earn community service hours by volunteering at the South Garland Library! Help out at one of our family programs, Family Holiday Crafts.

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.

➡️If you cannot attend your volunteer shift, please cancel it online or call us at 972-205-3934 to let us know. If you have three no-call no-show occurrences, we will delete your future shifts and you will no longer be permitted to volunteer at any of the Garland libraries

Spring Creek Park Preserve & the FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee
invite you to an iNaturalist Bioblitz!
Part of the City Nature Challenge

iNaturalist is a free phone and web app enables you to catalog your own observations in nature. But it is also a powerful international citizen-science tool that enables scientists to track information on thousands of species worldwide – information such as enabling predictions about species decline or health, indicating whether the species habitat is expanding or collapsing, and much, much more.

Every observation can contribute to biodiversity science, from the rarest butterfly to the most common backyard weed. Findings are shared with scientific data repositories like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility to help scientists find and use your data. All you have to do is observe and share your discoveries!

Experienced iNaturalist volunteers from the Preservation Society for Spring Creek Forest (springcreekforest.org) and Trinity River Audubon Center will be on hand to get new naturalists started and to point out the best “hot spots” in the preserve to make observations.

Spend part of your December break helping prepare “Baskets of Kindness” for City of Garland departments. This indoor volunteer activity will take place at the Volunteer Garland Office located at 525 Tower St. You can help assemble baskets or create uplifting cards to include inside—either way, you’ll be spreading encouragement and appreciation to the teams who serve our community all year.

A meaningful way to give back: See the real impact your kindness has on city employees.

A fun and positive environment: Meet new people, get creative, and enjoy a stress-free break from school.

Service hours that matter: Build volunteer experience that shows leadership, responsibility, and community involvement.

We will meet from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to assemble baskets and create cards. After everything is assembled, we’ll add finishing touches, sort completed items, and wrap up before a brief clean-up at the end.

Teens ages 12 - 17 can earn community service hours by volunteering at the brand new West Garland Library! Help us prepare for children's programs and keeping the children's area tidy! 

Typical duties include, but not limited to: 

This volunteer opportunity is for ages 12 - 17 only. Volunteers will sign in for their shift at the Children's Desk.