Volunteer Opportunities

Thank you for your interest in the Outdoor Program at Portland State University!

Stop by the office during the first week of spring term for more information about volunteering in the spring, and read on to learn more about the program!

The Outdoor Program is built on the passion and initiative of students like you who have a love for the outdoors.

You do not need to have prior outdoor experience to volunteer with the Outdoor Program, but you must love being outside.

Volunteers are selected through an application process. I know what you're thinking - why apply to be a volunteer?  Shouldn't you just show up?  There are a few reasons.  

1. We have a high volume of people who would like to volunteer for the program and only so much capacity to run a volunteer program.  Each term we will take around 6-10 people to be volunteers in the program.

2. The volunteer program is somewhat of an outdoor apprenticeship program.  You will learn the ins and outs of the Outdoor Program, be trained in the office, help with advertising, and develop personal skills.  You will also be expected to choose an outdoor themed project to complete during your 25 hour volunteership. 

3. Our volunteers are working towards becoming Volunteer Trip Leaders and eventually paid Assistant Trip Leaders and Trip Leaders.  An application allows us to get to know you and your motivations beyond meeting you briefly at the information session.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer in the Outdoor Program please contact Kat McLaughlin at 503-725-5668, or email kmcl2@pdx.edu, and check out our FAQs!

Applications for fall term volunteers will be available during the first two weeks of fall term!

Thanks for your interest!