Volunteer Team
Member Program

WHAT IS THE VNC? 

The VNC is a privately owned non-profit 501 (c) 3 environmental education organization.  The VNC has brought nature to its visitors for over 20 years, and continues to build strong educational programs at the center and its six acre nature park.  

The center educates its visitors and local residents through a variety of adult and children's education programs.  Volunteers are an intricate part of these programs and the everyday operations of the center.   Come join us!
The Valley Nature Center’s Mission Statement, “To provide educational opportunities and to foster appreciation and understanding of the Lower Rio Grande Valley's unique natural communities of flora and fauna,” is substantially strengthened by the joining together of individuals on a voluntary basis.  Those who choose to support this mission because of their love of nature and willingness to contribute represent a special  segment of our community at large.  They are motivated by their passion.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Those wishing to participate in the Volunteer Team Member Program should contact Cindy Flores by come by or calling the Valley Nature Center to register as an official volunteer.

Volunteer Hours Available During:
Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday 8:00 - 5:00 pm
Sunday 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Valley Nature Center
Attn: Cindy Flores
301 S Border Ave.
Weslaco, TX  78596

956-969-2475
cflores@valleynaturecenter.org

IS THE PROGRAM FOR YOU?

To know if the Volunteer Team Member Program is for you, please consider the following questions:

  • Are you passionate about nature and conservation of the environment?
  • Do you wish to share that passion?
  • Do you enjoy interacting with people?
  • Would you like to support a community organization by committing your time and energy to make it a better place?
  • You don't mind some fun but hard work at times!

 

HOW TO GET STARTED 

To start volunteering for the Valley Nature Center we ask all potential volunteers to follow these guidelines:

1.  Contact the VNC (info above) to register as an official volunteer.   A Volunteer Team Member Application must be filled out. 

2.   Set up the date(s) and times you wish to volunteer by calling or stopping by the VNC.  Also let us know what duties you wish to help with.   You MUST call ahead and register a time that you wish to volunteer.  We can not simply accept you without notice.  This is so that we have a project ready for you and so that your time is valuably spent both for us and for you. 

WHAT CAN I DO AT THE VNC??

The Program is for those that can either commit long term as a volunteer or for those that can't commit long-term.  If you just want to help out certain days, or if you need to complete certain number of hours for community service, or a similar situation, this is the program for you.  There are many inside and outside projects. 

Please be aware to dress appropriately and be prepared.  Here are some of the possible projects:

Outside:
Pot seedlings (incl. mixing dirt)
Fill seedling bands
Root trim potted plants
Re-pot plants in larger pots
Weed nursery
Water nursery
Sweep trails
Dig up unwanted saplings & other plants in the park
Plant plants in the park
Pick up trash
Lead nature walks (if experienced)

Inside:
Greet visitors
Gif Shop clerk
Office assistance and clerical work
House keeping duties
Educational assistance during programs
Exhibit Hall docent