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Parks & Rec launches volunteer program to support events and park maintenance
Summary
Parks & Recreation staff outlined a 2026 volunteer program to support special events and park maintenance with orientation, background checks, role matching, supervision, and recognition; staff emphasized volunteers will expand services without increasing long‑term payroll costs.
Mr. Messenger presented the City of Vandalia’s new Parks & Recreation volunteer program at the May 4 study session, describing it as a two‑pronged effort to support (1) special events and (2) parks maintenance and beautification.
Messenger said volunteers will undergo interviews, orientation and role‑specific training; staff will match volunteers to event or maintenance roles based on skills and interests. He described two volunteer categories: special events volunteers (setup, guest assistance, vendor support, cleanup) and parks maintenance volunteers (park cleanups, tree plantings, invasive species removal, park watch). He said volunteers will be screened with background checks where safety‑sensitive roles are involved and will be covered by the city’s insurance while performing assigned duties.
The program includes accountability measures (sign‑in sheets, tracking hours for staff‑cost equivalent reporting) and recognition (certificates, milestone gifts and an annual appreciation lunch). Messenger said the program will be promoted via the city website, social media and community partners (service clubs and schools).
Council members praised the program and asked follow‑ups; one council member said they submitted an online volunteer application last year and were not contacted. Messenger said staff would investigate the missing follow‑up. Parks Director Alicia McCracken noted the volunteer pool will help expand event capacity without creating unsustainable part‑time staffing costs.
