Volunteer

Become a LEAF Volunteer

volunteer gardening at urban forest demonstration garden

 

Join the LEAF volunteer team and help our urban forest thrive!

 

Our volunteers play a critical role in helping us improve the urban forest. We rely on the support and dedication of our volunteers to implement many of our community programs. We strive to ensure that every volunteer has a meaningful, fulfilling and fun experience!

 

Benefits of being a LEAF volunteer:

  • Contribute to the improvement of the urban forest in your community
  • Meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for nature
  • Gain knowledge about urban forestry, native tree species, local biodiversity and so much more!
  • Receive a special thank you gift for reaching volunteer milestones:
    • LEAF t-shirt after volunteering 25 hours
    • $75 LEAF gift certificate after volunteering 100 hours
  • Participate in our annual volunteer appreciation event!
volunteer planting a tree

There are many ways that you can get involved depending on your skills, interests and availability. Please note that we only accept volunteers over the age of 18. Current opportunities include:

Planting and Stewardship Events

  • Assist by planting and mulching native trees and shrubs
  • Experienced volunteers can assist with training and quality control
  • Planting events take place in spring (April - June) and fall (September - October) in York Region and Durham Region

Garden Steward Teams

Community Outreach and Education

  • Represent LEAF at community events and connect with people about the Urban Forest and LEAF’s work
  • Share your tree knowledge and inspire others to take action
  • Attend additional training session

Other Tasks

  • Contribute to our blog and newsletter
  • Help capture photographs and video of our great LEAF moments
  • Help LEAF staff with administrative tasks

Becoming a LEAF Volunteer is as easy as 1, 2, TREE!

 

1. Register for a Volunteer Orientation

  • Select a Volunteer Orientation to attend
  • Provide us with some information so we can get to know you better!

2. Attend a Volunteer Orientation

  • Receive an overview of LEAF’s volunteer programs
  • Learn about the urban forest and how you can get involved

3. Participate in Volunteer Programs

  • Register for the LEAF volunteer programs you’re interested in
  • Find out about new volunteer opportunities through our Volunteer Call Out newsletter
  • Participate in as many LEAF programs as you can
  • Meet new friends and become part of our volunteer community

 

Register