phone(319) 362-0664
5300 Otis Road SE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Donate

Volunteer

We LOVE our volunteers.

We have opportunities for volunteers of all kinds. Whether you are looking to be “on call,” have interest in a specific project, have a unique skill set to offer, or want to volunteer on a regular basis, we’d love to have you! Let us know what you’re interested in by completing the Volunteer Application. 

Online Application
Update Volunteer Contact Information
Group Volunteer Interest Form
Volunteer Project Sign-Up
SUBMIT VOLUNTEER HOURS
Special Event Volunteer Sign-Up

Click to find a list of special events where you can volunteer throughout the year.

Our volunteers make our mission possible — we couldn’t do it without them.

If you love nature, teaching kids, getting out on the land, or simply lending a helping hand, Indian Creek Nature Center is your place! ICNC’s important work would not be possible without volunteers. They share their unique talents and enthusiasm with an eagerness to learn. Volunteers unselfishly add an amazing source of energy and community support. From school field trips or special events to daily operations and land stewardship, all aspects of the Nature Center are enriched by the dedication of our volunteers.

We have opportunities that align with varying interests and skill sets:

Volunteer Contact:

Sarah Botkin | Amazing Space Manager | 319-362-0664


Please note: Some positions, such as those involving interaction with children, also require references and background checks.

“I have volunteered at the Nature Center for decades, so obviously it calls to me! The Nature Center is “my place.” It has everything for volunteers – great people, abundant learning opportunities, variety, and the chance to be a part of nature. When I spend time there I don’t just help in my community, I have a great time. I can’t imagine a week without my fix.”
– Mary Kopecky, Volunteer
“An essential part of my experience has been to learn from the great staff, fellow volunteers, and yes, the students as they ask intrepid questions. I would recommend volunteering at ICNC for anyone with an interest in making a difference. Thank you for letting me be part of the wonderful Indian Creek Nature Center team!”
– Steve Keane, Volunteer Teacher-Naturalist
“Volunteering is just as much about giving back as it is giving to self. We harvested the branches that will be used in the upcoming basket weaving class. What I also harvested was a sense of accomplishment, purpose, skill building, appreciation and maybe even a couple new friends.”
– Amanda Bittorf, Volunteer

ICNC Volunteer Application

Fill out and submit the form below to apply and be considered for volunteer opportunities with Indian Creek Nature Center.

  • Personal Info

  • Please note: Certain volunteer positions are subject to a paid background check in order to participate. You will be contacted separately if this process is required.
  • Please enter a number greater than or equal to 0.
  • The majority of volunteer communication is sent via email. If your email changes, please notify us.
  • Do you have any access needs or accommodation requests that we should be aware of?
  • Please describe your general availability (days of the week, weekdays/evenings/weekends, seasonal, temporary).
  • What might your time commitment look like as a prospective volunteer? Are you looking for a regular weekly shift, do you have short term goals, or something different/you're unsure? PLEASE NOTE: Some volunteer roles (Teacher-Naturalist and Creekside Forest School) do require consistent participation.
  • if applicable

  • Volunteer Info

    Please select volunteer roles that you are interested in.
  • Most education volunteer opportunities take place during the school year on weekdays between 9am-3pm unless otherwise noted. Requirements: A strong desire to work with children and a passion for creating champions of nature. Must be willing to volunteer a minimum of 12-15 hours per month. Teacher-Naturalists (lead visiting groups to ICNC) will onboard primarily at the end of August for fall and mid-February for spring. Training is provided.
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.