Ways to Volunteer at Cedarwood Outdoor School

At Cedarwood Outdoor School, our programs thrive because of people who care deeply about the next generation and the world God has made. Volunteers play a meaningful role in helping us create safe, engaging, and memorable outdoor learning experiences for students and families.

Whether we are identifying native plants along a forest trail, practicing wilderness skills, observing birds in the field, or simply helping students notice the details of creation around them, there are many moments where an extra set of capable hands makes a real difference.

Volunteering with Cedarwood is an opportunity to serve in a setting that values curiosity, stewardship, and the careful study of the natural world through a biblical worldview. Some volunteers join us because they enjoy working with youth. Others love the outdoors and want to share that passion with the next generation. Still others simply want to support the mission in practical ways.

However you choose to serve, your contribution helps make these experiences possible.

Ways You Can Help

There are several ways volunteers may serve alongside Cedarwood Outdoor School. Some roles are simple and require no specialized experience, while others benefit from volunteers with outdoor knowledge or teaching experience.

1. General Program Assistance

Many classes and field outings simply benefit from having additional responsible adults present.

Volunteers in this role may help with:

• Assisting with group organization during field activities

• Helping students stay together and engaged during hikes or outdoor exercises

• Assisting with equipment setup and cleanup

• Supporting instructors during hands-on activities

• Helping maintain a safe and orderly learning environment

No specialized outdoor skills are required for this role—just a willingness to help and a positive attitude.

2. Outdoor Skills & Knowledge

Some volunteers bring valuable experience in outdoor fields and enjoy sharing their knowledge with students.

Examples may include individuals with experience in:

• Wilderness skills and survival techniques

• Wildlife tracking or naturalist skills

• Birdwatching and field identification

• Navigation and land reading

• Outdoor safety and field leadership

• Homesteading or traditional skills

Volunteers with these backgrounds may occasionally assist with demonstrations, instruction, or specialized workshops depending on program needs.

3. Event & Logistics Support

From time to time Cedarwood hosts field days, workshops, and special events that require additional logistical support.

Volunteer tasks may include:

• Event setup and breakdown

• Equipment organization

• Helping direct participants and families

• Assisting with activity stations

These roles are often ideal for those who want to help behind the scenes.

What We Look For in Volunteers

Because Cedarwood Outdoor School works with youth and families, we place a high priority on the character, maturity, and reliability of those who serve with us.

Volunteers should demonstrate qualities consistent with the biblical call to live “above reproach” (1 Tim. 3:2) and to conduct themselves with integrity in all areas of life.

In general, volunteers should be:

• Responsible and dependable

• Patient and respectful when working with students

• Comfortable spending time outdoors in varying conditions

• Supportive of the mission and values of Cedarwood Outdoor School

• Able to follow safety guidelines and instructor direction

In addition, volunteers who work with students will be asked to complete a background check and basic volunteer onboarding process.

These steps are not meant to be burdensome, but to ensure that every Cedarwood program remains a safe and trustworthy environment for families.

The Volunteer Process

If you are interested in serving with Cedarwood Outdoor School, we would love to hear from you.

The typical process includes:

1. Submitting a brief volunteer interest form

2. A short conversation to learn about your background and interests

3. Completion of any required background checks for youth-related roles

4. Placement in volunteer opportunities that match your availability and experience

Not every volunteer opportunity requires specialized skills—often the greatest need is simply for reliable individuals who are willing to help.

Submit Your Volunteer Request Today

Outdoor education is most powerful when it is shared within a community of people who love learning, exploring, and stewarding creation together.

If you enjoy the outdoors, value thoughtful education, and would like to help young people grow in their understanding of the world around them, volunteering with Cedarwood Outdoor School may be a wonderful fit.