Arboretum Volunteers

The Arboretum depends on its volunteers to help us be one of the most beautiful destinations in metropolitan Kansas City. There are a variety of options available to potential volunteers. Opportunities include:

  • Gardening, weeding, planting, and general maintenance
  • Greeting guests
  • Prairie restoration and native plant protection
  • Educating guests, guiding tours, and hosting field trips
  • Arboretum outreach at external events
  • Helping with seasonal activities and educational events
  • Assisting with weddings and rental events
  • Instruction of special interests topics, including photography, birdwatching, geocaching, art and more.

Volunteer Requirements

Volunteers do not need prior knowledge, only a desire to learn. Volunteers must:

  • Have a positive attitude.
  • Follow Arboretum and City policies and procedures.
  • Appreciate nature and commit to conserving our natural world.
  • Enjoy meeting new people and providing excellent customer service.

Become a Volunteer

Adult Volunteers (18 and older)

Adult volunteers wishing to provide service regularly, more than five times a year, must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older.
  • Submit a City of Overland Park application.
  • Commit to volunteering 40 hours annually.
  • Attend an orientation session.
  • Pass a level-1 background check.

Apply Online

Junior Volunteers (Under 18)

Student volunteers under 18 must complete the student volunteer interest form.

If you are selected to volunteer, the volunteer supervisor will contact you to schedule an orientation.

Fill Out the Form

Special Project Volunteers

If you are an individual or part of a group interested in providing service on a one-time basis, please email [email protected] with your group size, your preferred date and time and any particular areas of interest.

Upcoming Training Sessions

No events found

Current Volunteers

Volunteer Portal

The Arboretum utilizes Volgistics to track and coordinate volunteers. Current volunteers can access their volunteer portal to update contact information, receive news, view and manage their schedule, post their service hours and more.

Accessing Volunteer Portal At Home

Access your volunteer portal through VicNet.

Sign in With VicNet

Upcoming Events

Luminary Walk

When

December 5, 2025
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Location

Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens