Opportunities From: Portland Parks & Recreation

Volunteer: Find Your Flare: Preparing Your Trees for Planting


One of the best ways to ensure a healthy, long-lived tree is to uncover the root flare before planting. Help us pull back soil on hundreds of trees before we give them away this fall.

Don't know what a root flare is? No problem. We will show you exactly what we are looking for and why it is so important.

 

What to Expect:
-Work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting.
-Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.
-Snacks will be provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle.
-Dress for the weather all work will be outside.
-Wear closed toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
-All tools and gloves will be provided.

Where:
The work location will be next to the Mt. Tabor Community Garden near SE Lincoln & 64th Ave. A Map will be sent ahead of the event.

When:
Friday, September 18, 2026, from 4:pm to 7pm


We know Friday schedules can be complicated - it's ok if you can't make it right at 4:00pm! We will have a demonstration at 4pm and again at 5pm.


Program: Urban Forestry


One of the best ways to ensure a healthy, long-lived tree is to uncover the root flare before planting. Help us pull back soil on hundreds of trees before we give them away this fall.

Don't know what a root flare is? No problem. We will show you exactly what we are looking for and why it is so important.

 

What to Expect:
-Work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting.
-Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.
-Snacks will be provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle.
-Dress for the weather all work will be outside.
-Wear closed toe shoes and clothes you don't mind getting dirty.
-All tools and gloves will be provided.

Where:
The work location will be next to the Mt. Tabor Community Garden near SE Lincoln & 64th Ave. A Map will be sent ahead of the event.

When:
Friday, September 18, 2026, from 4:pm to 7pm


We know Friday schedules can be complicated - it's ok if you can't make it right at 4:00pm! We will have a demonstration at 4pm and again at 5pm.


Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Sep 18, 2026

Zip Code: 97215

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Welcoming Week Community Reflection and Celebration at Mt Scott Park

Join us and partner organizations to celebrate bringing our communities together through outdoor connection, recreation, nature and reflection!

When: Saturday, September 19th, 2026

Where: Mt Scott Park at SE 72nd and SE Harold St, Portland OR 97206

Volunteers will table with Urban Forestry staffers to let the event participants know about our free tree programs.

Event runs from 9am- 1pm. We ask that volunteers arrive at 8:30am for set up and stay until 1:30pm for take down.

Super plus if you're bilingual in any of the following languages: Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Cantonese

Please bring snacks, filled water bottle and a sack lunch if you plan to eat lunch during your volunteer shift. We'd also recommend using sunscreen and a hat and any other items you might need to stay cool.

Thanks as always, everyone!

Program: Urban Forestry

Join us and partner organizations to celebrate bringing our communities together through outdoor connection, recreation, nature and reflection!

When: Saturday, September 19th, 2026

Where: Mt Scott Park at SE 72nd and SE Harold St, Portland OR 97206

Volunteers will table with Urban Forestry staffers to let the event participants know about our free tree programs.

Event runs from 9am- 1pm. We ask that volunteers arrive at 8:30am for set up and stay until 1:30pm for take down.

Super plus if you're bilingual in any of the following languages: Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Cantonese

Please bring snacks, filled water bottle and a sack lunch if you plan to eat lunch during your volunteer shift. We'd also recommend using sunscreen and a hat and any other items you might need to stay cool.

Thanks as always, everyone!

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97206

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Yard Tree Giveaway Volunteer- Arbor Lodge Park

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97217

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Yard Tree Giveaway Volunteer- Gilbert Park Elementary School

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97236

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Yard Tree Giveaway Volunteer- Wilshire Park

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97212

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Arbor Day Tree Planting Shift One

WHAT: Volunteer to help plant trees at Harrison Park with Urban Forestry and APANO! Bring yourself, weather protection, and a water bottle! All tools and materials needed will be provided on-site.

WHERE: Harrison Park (1931 SE 84th Ave, Portland, OR 97216)

WHEN: Saturday, Oct 17,

Planting Shift One:

10:00 am - 11:15 am

Join Urban Forestry and APANO to celebrate the beginning of the planting season with a tree planting event. Volunteers will be able to plant trees or work in the nature patch to help beautify the park.


In addition to stewardship work, there will be crafts, educational tables, and free food. Don't miss out on this great community event.

This planting event will happen, rain or shine.  

Program: Urban Forestry

WHAT: Volunteer to help plant trees at Harrison Park with Urban Forestry and APANO! Bring yourself, weather protection, and a water bottle! All tools and materials needed will be provided on-site.

WHERE: Harrison Park (1931 SE 84th Ave, Portland, OR 97216)

WHEN: Saturday, Oct 17,

Planting Shift One:

10:00 am - 11:15 am

Join Urban Forestry and APANO to celebrate the beginning of the planting season with a tree planting event. Volunteers will be able to plant trees or work in the nature patch to help beautify the park.


In addition to stewardship work, there will be crafts, educational tables, and free food. Don't miss out on this great community event.

This planting event will happen, rain or shine.  

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 17, 2026

Zip Code: 97216

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Arbor Day Tree Planting Shift Two

WHAT: Volunteer to help plant trees at Harrison Park with Urban Forestry and APANO! Bring yourself, weather protection, and a water bottle! All tools and materials needed will be provided on-site.

WHERE: Harrison Park (1931 SE 84th Ave, Portland, OR 97216)

WHEN: Saturday, Oct 17,

Planting Shift One:

12:30 pm - 1:45 pm

Join Urban Forestry and APANO to celebrate the beginning of the planting season with a tree planting event. Volunteers will be able to plant trees or work in the nature patch to help beautify the park.


In addition to stewardship work, there will be crafts, educational tables, and free food. Don't miss out on this great community event.

This planting event will happen, rain or shine.  

Program: Urban Forestry

WHAT: Volunteer to help plant trees at Harrison Park with Urban Forestry and APANO! Bring yourself, weather protection, and a water bottle! All tools and materials needed will be provided on-site.

WHERE: Harrison Park (1931 SE 84th Ave, Portland, OR 97216)

WHEN: Saturday, Oct 17,

Planting Shift One:

12:30 pm - 1:45 pm

Join Urban Forestry and APANO to celebrate the beginning of the planting season with a tree planting event. Volunteers will be able to plant trees or work in the nature patch to help beautify the park.


In addition to stewardship work, there will be crafts, educational tables, and free food. Don't miss out on this great community event.

This planting event will happen, rain or shine.  

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Oct 17, 2026

Zip Code: 97216

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Yard Tree Giveaway Volunteer- Arbor Day- Harrison Park

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97216

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Yard Tree Giveaway Volunteer- Gabriel Park

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97219

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Yard Tree Giveaway Volunteer- Tabor Community Gardens

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Volunteer to help at a Yard Tree Giveaway event! At this fun and fast-paced event we will be giving away about 300 trees per event to Portlanders! Folks have pre-registered for trees. The event is set up as a drive-thru format where the recipient stays in their car until it is time to load up the trees.

What to expect?  We will work rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes. Snacks and water will be provided to volunteers. Please bring a reusable water bottle and lunch if you will need it.

High impact work includes (12 avilable slots): loading/unloading mulch, trees and tools as well as Finding Root-flares: High impact work requires digging in soil, bending, crouching and lifting. Sharp tools, like soil knives and pruners, will be used.

Low impact work (2 available slots): Handing out information booklets, Directing traffic, Taking Photos, distributing stickers and promotion/ Yard signs.

For the comfort and safety of all participants, please leave your pets at home.  Before attending any event: if you are not feeling well, have a temperature above 100.4ᵒ or receive a recommendation to self-isolate – please stay home.

Program: Urban Forestry

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 97215

Allow Groups: No