Volunteer Project Catalog

Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter

Join Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter for our annual cleanup of Kimball Junction and the Preserve! Volunteers will head to locations all over Kimball Junction to pick up trash that has accumulated over the winter. If not removed, much of this garbage ends up on the Swaner Preserve which can be dangerous for wildlife and detrimental to the functions of the wetland. Coffee and light snacks will be provided by our generous neighbors, Bartolo's, and all volunteers who participate in the Earth Day Cleanup are entered into an opportunity drawing for fun prizes and gift cards from local sponsors. Thanks to Newpark HOA for sponsoring a dumpster for the cleanup and Recycle Utah for lending additional trash grabbers. Thanks to our prize sponsors GU, Sign up by selecting a volunteer shift below. Please arrive anytime within your shift to check in and pick up supplies. Check-in for this event will take place on the plaza in front of the Swaner EcoCenter. Upon arrival you will be assigned to a specific area, given materials, and receive additional instructions. Volunteers will get free entry into Swaner's travelling exhibit "Life on the Edge" from 10am-4 pm. Pencil in some extra time to visit the exhibition before it leaves in early May. Learn more here: https://extension.usu.edu/swaner/visit/exhibits/life-on-the-edge. Thank you for celebrating Earth Day by giving your time and effort to take care of Swaner Preserve and Kimball Junction!

Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter

Inspire, instruct, and ensure the safety of guests who participate in Swaner’s Wetland Climbing Wall! The Climbing Wall Volunteer supports Swaner EcoCenter staff during our busiest times on Saturdays and Sundays. This is a kid-focused role, so being comfortable around children and communicating with them clearly and encouragingly is especially helpful. No prior climbing experience necessary! Key Responsibilities: — Maintain a safe, positive environment and supervise climbers at all times — Track climbs (wristbands + tally marks) — Harness climbers and clip them into the auto-belay system — Know and enforce all climbing wall rules Time Commitment: — Saturdays and/or Sundays, 1pm-4pm Qualifications: — Must be 16 years or older — Must pass a background check — Must be responsible, reliable, and ensure safety of climbers is the top priority Training includes the following: — One-on-one instruction of the climbing wall, including how to safely and correctly put on a harnesses, how to use an auto belay, rules of the climbing wall, and strategies of how to manage multiple climbers — Shadowing a staff member during climbing wall hours — Demonstrate proficiency in skills outlined in training Benefits: — Invitation to Swaner events and activities for volunteers — Develop new skills — Opportunity to make a difference and have a positive impact on our community!

Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter

Inspire, engage, and create during Sunday Craft! The Sunday Craft Volunteer supports Swaner EcoCenter staff during our busiest weekend hours. This is one of our most popular programs and is very kid-focused, so being comfortable interacting with children and guiding them through simple craft activities is especially helpful. No prior art or teaching experience necessary! Key Responsibilities: — Invite and assist children in creating a themed nature and/or upcycled craft. — Maintain a clean and safe craft area, including setup and cleanup. — Engage children with nature topics, encouraging exploration and curiosity. Volunteer Commitment: — Flexible! Volunteers can sign up for a one-time shift or participate regularly. — To ensure everyone has an opportunity to volunteer, we kindly ask that individuals sign up for no more than two shifts per month. — Each sign-up spot is for ONE volunteer only. If more than one person would like to volunteer (such as a parent and child), each person must sign up for their own spot. Time Commitment: — Volunteers must arrive at 10:30 AM—30 minutes before start time—to set up and review instructions. Expect to stay 15 minutes after for cleanup. — Sunday Craft takes place from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM every Sunday at Swaner EcoCenter. Qualifications: — Ages 12 and up — Friendly, patient, reliable, and a good communicator — Comfortable in a busy, kid-focused environment Benefits: — Invitation to Swaner events and activities for volunteer — Gain hands-on experience working with children — Support a fun, educational program at Swaner — Meet other volunteers and connect with the community