Recreation supervisor: Danville had about 667 volunteers in 2025, saving roughly $85,000 in part‑time wages

Recreation Supervisor Tim McGrath told the Danville Parks, Recreation & Arts Commission on April 8 that the town’s volunteer program drew about 667 unique volunteers in 2025 who contributed nearly 4,500 hours of service.

“We had about 667 unique volunteers contributing almost 4 and a half thousand hours of service,” McGrath said, adding that the town’s average‑value calculation equated to roughly $85,000 saved in part‑time salary costs.

McGrath described three volunteer tracks: volunteer positions that require interviews, background checks and onboarding for recurring leadership roles; lower‑barrier volunteer programs that typically require only sign‑up and attendance for single shifts; and one‑day community events such as Lend A Hand Day. He said volunteer positions are intended for people who take ongoing responsibility—coaching, leading classes or supervising activities—while program volunteers fill roles such as game station help, food delivery and event setup.

For safety and liability, McGrath said the town sets clear boundaries for volunteers: they are generally supervised by staff and are not permitted to climb ladders, clean gutters or access roofs. He also described the town’s process for Lend A Hand Day: staff survey homeowners to identify priorities, translate requests into achievable tasks for volunteers, and set supplies and limits before assigning teams.

“This year, I think I have 14 committed homeowners,” McGrath said about Lend A Hand Day, estimating the event will involve about 120–140 volunteers across those homes.

Commissioners asked how volunteers are recruited and managed. McGrath said the town uses volunteer‑management software where volunteers register, log hours and apply for projects; the town also receives direct walk‑ins and requests through community organizations such as the scouts and National Charity League. He said participation fluctuates each year and is currently back to pre‑COVID levels.

Commissioners praised the program’s reach and community partnerships. McGrath highlighted long‑term partner arrangements—such as a group that maintains the rose beds at Osage Park under a year‑long agreement with the town—and encouraged commissioners to help raise awareness.

The presentation concluded with a request for commissioners to promote volunteering, help connect specialized skill sets when needed, and attend events when practical to boost visibility.

The commission did not take policy action during the presentation; follow‑up items would be operational (staff recruitment and public outreach).